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FORE Malahide Golf-winter dig[1]

Changes to the Rules Rule 6-6d (Wrong Score for Hole) The Exception under Rule 6-6d will maintain the importance of returning an accurate score card by penalising the player two strokes for the score card error in addition to the penalty for the original underlying breach of the Rules. So, if a player has incurred a 2 stroke penalty for playing outside the teeing ground, for example, and didn’t know of the penalty and hence not include it in his score, he would incur a total of 4 penalty strokes (2 for the original penalty and 2 for not returning the score card error). In all other cases where a player returns a score card with a score lower than actually taken on a hole, the player will continue to be disqualified. Rule 14-3 (Artificial Devices, Unusual Equipment and Abnormal Use of Equipment) If a player inadvertently uses an artificial device, e.g., distance measuring device or a training aid, during a competition when not permitted, up until now it was automatic disqualification. Now , a player is given the benefit of doubt for a single use situation. The penalty is a 2 stroke penalty in strokeplay or loss of hole in matchplay. Any subsequent use of the device in the round will result in disqualification. NEW RULE Rule 14-1b (Anchoring the Club) This new Rule prohibits the use of an anchor point or anchoring the club directly against the body in the making of a stroke. There was a lengthy consultation process on this subject and, as a result, there are many points that need clarification. The R&A and the USGA have issued a very informative document, that anyone who uses the anchoring method in making their stroke, would be advised to read and study. The club is anchored “directly” when the player intentionally holds the club or a gripping hand in contact with any part of his body, except that the player may hold the club or a gripping hand against a hand or forearm. An “anchor point” exists when the player intentionally holds a forearm in contact with any part of his body to establish a gripping hand as a stable point around which the other hand may swing the club. You are still permitted to use conforming mid-length and long putters. It is not an equipment rule change. A player may hold his club against his hand or forearm (that is, arm below the elbow) in making a stroke. If he makes a stroke intentionally holding his club at or above his elbow, he is in breach of Rule 14-1b. For an in-depth look at this new Rule, go to the R&A website section: RandA.org/Anchoring Jeannette Brophy


FORE Malahide Golf-winter dig[1]
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