Linda, we have a 50' protective fence inside the boundary fence
(stops slicers’ balls going into the road or towards houses) that angles in
toward the hole at 30º. My question regards the immovable guy wire that extends
from the top of the last post of the fence to the ground. If you are behind
this guy wire and it is in line with a shot to the flag but does not impede
swing or stance…any free relief? Choices…hook or fade around obstruction or
take unplayable lie at cost of one stroke. Does a safety issue ever warrant
relief? If hit in straight line with proper trajectory the ball could ricochet
and return to golfer’s noggin.
Thanks.
Lou
Dear Lou,
Guy wires supporting a protective fence that extend onto the
golf course are obstructions [Decision 24/2]. A player is entitled to relief if
the wires interfere with his stance or the area of his intended swing. There is
no free relief from an immovable obstruction on the line of play [Rule 24-2a].
If the player is concerned about a ricochet, he might want to aim his shot away
from the problem or wear a hard hat.
Linda
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