Hi Linda,
I have some questions about your answer to Lou in
Belgium concerning "Change loft during round." How are the rules of
golf addressing the use of adjustable drivers by golfers, especially within the
amateur ranks? I read Lou's question as a partner or opponent was
using an adjustable head driver, as he referred to a TaylorMade R9, and
said player may have adjusted the settings of his driver during the round. In
this event I understand how Rule 4-2a could come into play, but isn't Decision
4-2/2 is rendered moot because the player would be able to restore the original
lie as the club is adjustable? And with adjustable drivers how would Rule
4-3b apply as the club is not damaged during the normal course of
play, only adjusted with a wrench and screw?
Thank you for a great column and making the rules of golf a
little clearer for those of us who want a better understanding so we can enjoy
the game that much more.
Lou in Panama City, Florida
Dear Lou,
It is the opinion of the USGA and the R&A, as explained
in Decision 4-2/2, that “it would be impossible to restore exactly the original
lie of an altered club.” If the player immediately discards the club and
declares it out of play, he incurs no penalty. If he continues to carry it, he
is in breach of Rule 4-2a.
Linda
Copyright © 2013 Linda Miller. All rights reserved.
