Tom and Jerry were playing the 2nd hole at GGC. Tom’s second stroke on that hole headed towards the lateral water hazard (red pegs) to the right of the fairway. Tom found his ball resting against the hazard peg defining that hazard. Tom indicated to Jerry that he would take a drop from the stake as they were deemed immoveable obstructions by the local rule at GGC and as he wasn’t in the hazard he was entitled to free relief. Jerry did not agree insisting that if Tom took relief it would be under penalty of one stroke because Tom’s ball was touching the hazard stake, and therefore he was technically in the hazard. How would you rule?
Answer: Jerry finally has one right. As Tom’s ball was touching the hazard peg he is deemed to be in the hazard and any relief must be under rule 26. Note: if the ball had not been touching the stake Tom would be entitled to free relief at GGC as there is a local rule deeming stakes “immoveable obstructions” see rule 24-2. . Not all clubs have a local rule deeming stakes as immoveable obstructions. If that is the case you may pull the stake out and put it back after playing your stroke if the ball is not in the hazard. Please be aware of local rules at all courses that you play.
If you don’t have a rule book, or need a new one, please get one at the Pro-shop or the office.
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