Linda,
We have a local rule that allows a free drop from a planted
landscaped area.
I recently hit into the area and prepared to drop at the
nearest point of relief, no nearer the hole. I felt that spot was on a
cart path. I thought I could then re-drop to get relief from the path. My
fellow competitor said no, I must drop on ground/grass at the nearest spot of
ground/grass (not cart path).
Was either of us right? If so, who?
Thanks,
Lou from Denver, North Carolina
Dear Lou,
You are correct, Lou.
When you take your free relief from the landscaped area, you
must find the nearest point on the course that is not nearer to the hole and
gives you complete relief from the
condition that interferes with your stroke [Definition of “Nearest Point of
Relief”]. In your situation, that point was on the cart path. After you drop
the ball on the path, if the path interferes with your next stroke, you have a
new situation – interference by an immovable obstruction. You would now be
entitled to free relief under Rule 24-2.
The player is not permitted to take relief from the
landscaped area and the cart path in a single procedure [Decision 1-4/8]. You
must take your drop from the first problem, assess your new situation, and then
decide where (or whether) to take relief from the second problem.
Linda
Copyright © 2016 Linda Miller. All rights reserved.
