Linda,
This is a follow-up from Lou's recent question here: Ask Linda #468-Ball found in hazard: Play original or
provisional?
The golfer in question was required to play the original
ball found in a water hazard. But one of his options was to hit from the
original spot. Since the provisional ball was hit from the original spot, if
the player chose the hazard relief option of re-hitting, is he still obligated
to abandon the provisional and re-hit from the original spot? I ask because it
seems inefficient to walk back and re-hit a shot that has already, for all
practical purposes, been re-hit.
I doubt the rules permit this, but it would be convenient if
they did.
Thanks,
Lou
Dear Lou,
I am in agreement with you that it would be both efficient
and convenient to continue play with the provisional ball. However, it would
not be correct under the Rules.
If the player finds his original ball, he must abandon his
provisional ball and continue play with the original. In Ask Linda #468, the player found his ball in a lateral water hazard. If he chooses the
relief option to return to where he hit his previous shot, that is what he must
do. He may not continue play with the provisional ball.
Linda
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Linda Miller. All rights reserved.
