Hi Linda,
Before a team match I put a thumb protector on a sore thumb and a member of the team said, “Did I know that I was allowed to put it on beforethe start of the match but not during”. I and others said we thought this was nonsense. Can you please enlighten us?
Regards
Lulu from Edinburgh
Dear Lulu,
And nonsense it is! If you were to get a blister or a cut, would they prevent you from putting on a bandage?
Ask this person to show you this “rule” in the rulebook. I will wager they cannot find it.
Since this occurred during a match, and you were certain you were within your rights, you should wear the thumb protector and wait for your opponent to request a ruling. I daresay the Committee will not rule in her favor.
Here is the applicable Rule from the Equipment Rules of the R&A and USGA (http://www.usga.org/content/dam/usga/pdf/Equipment/Equipment%20Rules%20Final.pdf):
5. Use of Tape, including Kinesiology Tape (Rule 4.3)
In general, tape or similar coverings (including kinesiology tape) may be used for medical reasons, provided it is not used in an excessive manner and the Committee is satisfied that its use does not give the player any undue advantage. However, if the adhesive tape or similar covering is used for other than medical reasons and in a manner that might assist a player in gripping the club or making a stroke it would be considered use of equipment in an unusual manner in breach of Rule 4.3.
Linda
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