Quote:
Originally Posted by Fourputt
I understand what Filey is getting at here. My course has a pair of holes where it is reasonable to leave your bag in the rough between the holes (behind a tree so I don't risk hitting it) and walk to the 15th green with just your putter, wedge, and Driver (for the 16th tee). It saves carrying the bag about 400 yards (200 each way). In such a case, I would definitely state my intention to play a provisional ball before going to my bag. I can't see that this would be considered a violation, as you have clearly stated that you are NOT going forward to search.  |
But would there not be a time constraint issue from one having to go say 200 yds and back again to retrieve a second ball then retee? Not quite a quarter mile but 5 minutes would be pushing it just because of someone either being lazy or ill-prepared for a what-if. Not sure how that would be treated in competition but I'm sure it would suffice to say it would be penalized as slow play. I always try and make sure I have two additional balls with me in case of provisionals needed. Again I very seldom walk but there are courses where even a walk from cart to tee is not a stones throw.
As far as the going forward I don't think the rule's intent is to measure yds or meters but to expediate play. Leaving a bag halfway to the hole for convenience isn't what the rules intent includes. I think this would be drawing a fine line as to Equity.
