Moving Range Balls: A Violation or Not?
Moving range balls on the course—violation or not? Our expert explains: if balls are not used for practice but only removed, it's not a rule violation. Learn more about rules 5.5a and 15.2 on our website.
- Keith Netley, one of our readers, encountered a similar situation: his ball ended up in the rough near the practice area, and some practice balls had crossed the boundary onto the course.
- In this case, practice balls are deemed movable obstructions that can be moved without penalty, in accordance with rules 5.5a and 15.2.
In the world of golf, situations often arise that leave players puzzled. For instance, if you see balls from the driving range on the course, is moving them considered practice? Our rules expert provides an answer to this question.
Keith Netley, one of our readers, encountered a similar situation: his ball ended up in the rough near the practice area, and some practice balls had crossed the boundary onto the course. Keith moved them with his club to clear the path. The question is whether he violated the rules by playing with other people's balls or practicing on the course, and whether he is subject to a penalty.
According to our expert, if you are not using these balls for practice but simply clearing them out of courtesy, it is not considered a violation. In this case, practice balls are deemed movable obstructions that can be moved without penalty, in accordance with rules 5.5a and 15.2.
Thus, moving balls to clear the way does not result in consequences. It's important to remember that courtesy and practice are two different things in golf.
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