Hi Linda,
I've been playing recreationally for many years. Having just
recently begun taking the game more seriously, I have been furiously reading
all the previous rules questions and your responses, which are very much
appreciated.
I thought this would be a good opportunity to ask a question
which I've been pondering. My short game is in need of the most work as well as
getting to know the greens on the home course of the club I just joined. It is
very hot here in the summer with scant players on the course. If there is no
one delayed by my practicing chipping to and putting on the green of the hole
just completed, is there any time limit for which I may do so? I want to the
round to be official and postable for handicap purposes while improving my short
game at the same time, and am thinking the answer is no. However, your opinion
on any applicable time limit would be much appreciated.
Thank you,
Lou from Phoenix, Arizona
Dear Lou,
There is no official time limit for practicing putting and
chipping on or near the putting green of the hole you just played or the teeing
ground of the next hole. The Rules only prohibit you from practicing from a
hazard or from delaying play [Rule 7-2].
Golf course management may be unhappy if you spend a
considerable amount of time chipping onto a green. Don’t be surprised if a
ranger shows up and asks you to move along. The best place to practice your
chipping is on a green designated for practice, where additional damage will
not be a concern.
Linda
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