RULES 101
Misconceptions about the rules of golf
Bunker
The Rules of Golf, 2019, have
been made more liberal through
amendments of some old rules, new
definitions introduced and reducing
the number of rules from 34 to
24. It makes it easier to follow and
remember due to the easy sequential
arrangements and simplified terms.
By SK MWAURA
This is the second in a
five series episode of
misconceptions about the
Rules of Golf, 2019. The
language used is in a deliberate
fashion to simplify the rules
both for the experienced
player and beginner. The
reader is requested to pay
close attention to the wording.
The 2019 Rules introduced 5
divisions of the course. The defined
areas 1. Tee area, 2. Putting green
Rule - 13, 3. Penalty areas, Rule -
7, 4. Bunkers, Rule 12, and 5. The
rest of the course is now known as
General Area. New terminologies
were incorporated, for instance,
water hazards are renamed penalty
areas, casual water has been changed
to temporary water and outside
agency is now outside influence, etc.
You’re advised to learn and retain
these terms in your memory.
MISCONCEPTION 1: That you
can take a relief if an immovable
obstruction INTERVENES on the
line of play. YOU CANNOT.
Interference by an immovable
obstruction occurs when it interferes
with the lie of the ball, the player’s
stance or area of intended swing.
Any other condition that accords
relief to a player must be covered
by either the Rules, or a local rule.
Nevertheless, there are occasions
under Rules of Golf or local rules
when relief from interference in the
line of play by temporary immovable
obstructions is given. In all other
circumstances, the ball is played as it
lies, Rule 9, unless proceeding under
any other applicable rule.