Linda, whilst in the process of addressing a putt I had a
wasp/bee fly close to my ear causing an involuntary movement by myself taking
evasive action. This evasive action caused me to inadvertently strike my ball, which
moved it approximately 2 inches.
Was I entitled to replay my putt without penalty?
My action was to count this as a stroke and continue with
the hole.
Thank you.
Lou from England
Dear Lou,
An involuntary evasive action that results in your moving
the ball does not meet the definition of “stroke,” since the act was not
intentional. What has happened here under the Rules is that you have
accidentally caused your ball to move. You must replace your ball and add a
one-stroke penalty to your score [Rule 18-2].
Linda
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