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On the
12th hole, I pull my second shot left of the fairway and
my ball comes to rest on the putting green of the 16th
hole. How should I proceed?
If I look up “wrong putting green” using the index or
the table of contents in the Rule Book, it will lead me
to Rule 25 and specifically section 25-3, which deals
with a wrong putting green and how to proceed.
First, I need to find out what is a wrong putting green?
By definition, a “wrong putting green” is any putting
green other than that of the hole being played. Unless
otherwise prescribed by the Committee, this term
includes a practice putting green or pitching green on
the course.
Since I am playing the 12th hole, the putting green of
the 16th hole would be a wrong putting green.
Next, I must determine if interference exists?
(Rule 25-3a) Interference by a wrong putting green
occurs when a ball is on the wrong putting green.
Interference to a player’s stance or the area of his
intended swing is not, of itself, interference under
this Rule.
Since my ball lies on a wrong putting green,
interference does exist.
Finally, I must take relief as prescribed if
interference does exist?
(Rule 25-3b) If a player has interference by a wrong
putting green, the player must take relief, without
penalty as follows:
The nearest point of relief must be determined which is
not in a hazard or on a putting green. The player must
lift the ball and drop it within one club-length of and
not nearer the hole than the nearest point of relief, on
a part of the course which avoids interference (as
defined) by the wrong putting green and is not in a
hazard or on a putting green. The ball may be cleaned
when so lifted.
Since I have interference, I must take relief by
dropping my ball without penalty within one club-length
of my nearest point of relief no nearer the hole.
Remember, use the index or the table of contents to find
the correct rule that applies to the situation and
follow the Rules of Golf to help yourself to enjoy the
game of golf.
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