Linda–
Ball was hit into a hazard. The ball was determined to be
unplayable and stated that a drop would be taken. Rather than bending over in
the hazard to retrieve the ball the player scooped the ball from the hazard
with their club. Is this considered a penalty?
Thanks for your response.
Lou
Dear Lou,
No penalty. Once a player decides to use one of the relief
options in Rule 26 for a ball in a water hazard, he may remove the ball from
the water in any manner he wishes.
The penalty for touching the ground or water in the hazard
with a hand or club is only in effect when your ball is in the hazard and you
plan to hit your next shot from the hazard [Rule 13-4b]. A player would be
well-advised to announce that he will take relief before he reaches in to
retrieve his ball.
Linda
Copyright © 2014 Linda Miller. All rights reserved.
