Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Ask Linda #932-Immovable obstruction in bunker

Hi Linda,

Around a bunker, there is an exposed “liner,” a hard plastic material separating the bunker (sand) from the fairway. Maintenance staff uses this to address bunker face erosion. Also, in the same bunker, there is a “drainage riser,” a device/material used to allow the bunker to drain immediately after a heavy downpour.

We hit our tee shots and our balls landed like this:
Player 1: in the bunker, 2 inches behind the “drainage liner.”
Player 2: left side of bunker face, ball touches the “liner.”
Player 3: in the bunker, touching the “liner.”

There is a Local Rule stating that the “drainage riser is an immovable obstruction.” Player 1 was allowed to drop his ball within one club-length of the NPR but inside the bunker. No penalty.
Player 2 was given a free drop, also within one club length of NPR, through the green.
For player 3, the marshal said that although the “liner” is an immovable obstruction, he (player 3) cannot get relief without penalty since his ball, although touching an immovable obstruction, is in the hazard (bunker). Player 3 could either hit his ball where it lay or declare it unplayable.

Are the rulings correct?

Thank you as always.
Lou from the Philippines

Dear Lou,

The ruling was correct for Players 1 and 2, incorrect for Player 3.

Except when the ball is in a water hazard or lateral water hazard, a player is entitled to free relief from an immovable obstruction [Rule 24-2b]. Free relief should have been offered to all three players.

Rule 24-2b (ii) explains how to take relief from an immovable obstruction in a bunker. If you have the opportunity, please show this Rule to the marshal.

Linda
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