Linda, we know a local rule allows players to remove rocks
from a sand trap but what if the rock lies directly under your ball?
Lulu from Mansfield, Texas
Dear Lulu,
Ordinarily, stones are loose impediments. Players are not
permitted to touch or move loose impediments in a bunker (two-stroke/loss of
hole penalty).
The Local Rule that allows players to remove stones from
bunkers permits the Committee to label the stones “movable obstructions,” which
means that Rule 24-1 explains how to proceed.
Under Rule 24-1, players are permitted to take free relief
from movable obstructions. If the ball does not lie on the obstruction, the obstruction may be removed. If the
ball moves because of moving the obstruction, it must be replaced, no penalty.
If the ball lies on
the obstruction, the ball may be lifted and the obstruction removed. In a
bunker, the ball must then be dropped
(not placed) as closely as possible to
where it lay, no closer to the hole.
The answer to your question, as you can see, is “yes.” If
your ball is lying on a stone in a bunker, you may lift the ball, remove the
stone, and drop the ball, no penalty.
Linda
Copyright © 2015 Linda Miller. All rights reserved.
