Linda,
This question pertains to match play. We have an interclub
that plays match play where there are three 2-person teams (6 players)
representing their course. Each of the 2-player teams plays against 2 players
from the opposing course. The lowest score from either player on either team
wins the hole. Let’s say the opposing team has already holed out for a 5. Our 2
players are on the green – Player 1 is lying 5 and Player 2 is lying 4. Player
1 knows she cannot win or tie the hole, but since the other team did not say
that they “concede the putt,” Player 1 chooses to putt to help her teammate (Player
2) who can still tie the hole. But then the opposing team said that Player 1
should have picked up to speed play. What are Player 1’s options in this
situation? Since I rarely play match play, your help is appreciated.
Thanks,
Lulu
from New Jersey
Dear Lulu,
Since the putt has not been conceded, Player 1 has the right
to putt her ball. The savvy player whose putt may assist her partner will hit
that putt every time. There is no Rule stating the player should pick up to
speed play. Whenever you can help your partner, you should do so.
The savvy opponent, knowing Player 1’s putt has no effect on
the outcome of the hole, will immediately concede the putt. Once the putt is
conceded, Player 1 may not putt the ball if doing so would assist her partner
[Decision 2-4/6]. If Player 1 were to hole out after the concession, and the
putt would provide useful information to her partner, the partner would be
disqualified from the hole.
Linda
Copyright © 2016 Linda Miller. All rights reserved.
