Dear Linda,
Decision 10-2c/2 states that it is allowed in Stroke Play to
play out of turn, since no advantage was gained from it. This Decision covers
the situation for one hole. My questions are:
1. Is this also acceptable if players do this on more holes,
but hole by hole, again just to save time and not to give a player an
advantage?
2. Is it allowed that the players agree to change the
order of play (before the start of play) for the holes where they deem it
necessary, again, just for the benefit of speed?
Kind regards,
Lou from Holland
Dear Lou,
The only time playing out of turn is penalized in stroke
play is if the players have agreed to do so in order to give one of them an
advantage. In that case, the players involved would be disqualified [Rule
10-2c]. Your questions seem to be asking whether it is permissible to agree to
play “ready golf.” If that is the case, the answer to both of your questions is
“yes.”
The Rules do not object to competitors playing out of turn
for a better pace of play. I am in favor of just about anything that moves the
game along quicker.
Personally, in a serious competition, I prefer to play in
turn as much as possible. I believe it lends a certain dignity and rhythm to
the game. However, just to use one example, if I am searching for a ball, and a
fellow competitor is waiting to hit because my ball is behind his, I will
always suggest that he go ahead and hit, after which he can help me in my
search.
Linda
Copyright © 2016 Linda Miller. All rights reserved.
