Morning Linda.
On our 8th hole we have a long carry over water from the
tee. However, most of the area marked as water is actually dry. If you hit your
tee shot into an area where you may be able to go in and play the shot, even
though technically it is in the water, is it permitted to play a provisional
ball in case you are unable to play the original ball?
Lou from Oman
Dear Lou,
No. You may not play a provisional ball for a ball that is
in a water hazard. You may only play a provisional ball for a ball that may be
lost outside a water hazard [Rule 27-2a].
The ball is not “technically” in the water, as you state; however, it
is officially in the water hazard. The Definition of “Water Hazard” does not
require the presence of water; it is not unusual to encounter a dry water
hazard on a golf course.
If you find you are unable to play the ball as it lies, you
may proceed under one of the relief options available in Rule 26-1.
Linda
Copyright © 2015 Linda Miller. All rights reserved.
