Rules Guy: Can partners stand directly behind each other when one is hitting?

Rules Guy: Can partners stand directly behind each other when one is hitting?

The question of whether a partner can stand directly behind a player taking a stroke often sparks debate among amateur golfers. The Rules of Golf, as always, provide a clear answer, but its interpretation can be complex. In this article, we will break down what the rules say and examine how these regulations are applied in practice, including in professional tournaments.

The core question from Ken Shaw of New Zealand:

Ken Shaw posed a question concerning Rule 23.8 (restriction on a player standing behind their partner during a stroke). He notes that at his club, any breach of this rule results in the general penalty. However, when watching tournaments like the Ryder Cup, Solheim Cup, and even televised parent-child events, he sometimes sees players clearly standing behind their partners to get a read on how a putt moves. Ken wonders if this rule can be excluded from the playing conditions.

Clarification from "Rules Guy":

"Rules Guy," the golf expert who answers rules-related questions, confirms that the restriction on being in the "directly behind" position has a specific start and end time. A player is allowed to be in this position for any reason before their partner begins their stance, and for any reason other than helping their partner's aim, up until the stroke is made.

The expert emphasizes that in neither the Ryder Cup nor the Solheim Cup has he observed breaches of Rule 23.8 or Rule 10.2b(4) within the stipulated timeframes. He admits to seeing plenty of horrible fan behavior, but not such violations by players.

Exceptions and Tournament Specifics:

Ken may have observed such situations at the PNC Championship, a two-person (often parent-child) scramble event. Officially, the Rules of Golf cannot simply be discarded. However, the scramble format itself is a "different beast" that already disregards a number of standard rules. Therefore, there is a general understanding that Rules 23.8 and 10.2b(4) are often excluded or ignored in such competitions. "Rules Guy" wryly notes that if the USGA or R&A were ever to host a Scramble Championship, it might change the situation, but this is highly unlikely.

An Additional Question on Ball Replacement and Free Drop:

The article also addresses another question related to partners' actions on the course. Brick Rigden from Parkville, Missouri, described a scenario where his ball and his partner's ball were touching and perfectly aligned toward the hole. Brick's ball was in front, so he marked it. However, after his partner's stroke, a massive divot was created. When attempting to replace his ball in its original spot, Brick would have ended up in this new divot. He claimed he was entitled to a free drop, but his partner disagreed.

Clarification on Rule 14.2d:

The expert replies that in this situation, neither party was entirely correct. According to Rule 14.2d, Brick was entitled to relief, but not a free drop.

When a player lifts their ball due to interference, they are required to replace it. However, if the lie of the ball to be replaced has been altered (e.g., by a divot), the player must replace it in a specific way. This means the ball must be placed on the nearest spot where its lie is most similar to the original lie. This spot must be within one club-length of the original spot, not nearer the hole, and in the same area of the course.

The author notes that such situations are more common in bunkers, but the process for replacing the ball remains the same.

Conclusion:

The Rules of Golf, while sometimes seeming complex, are designed to ensure fair play. Understanding the nuances, such as the permissible positioning of partners during a stroke or the rules for obtaining relief when conditions on the course change, is key to a successful and enjoyable game. In professional golf, strict adherence to the rules is the norm, while in amateur formats like scrambles, certain allowances are made for the sake of game dynamics.