Definition Of Unplayable Lie In Golf

The most common options for proceeding after taking the unplayable lie penalty are to return to the spot of the previous stroke and play again stroke and distance relief.

Definition of unplayable lie in golf. The practicalities of measuring and dropping inside a bush aren t always easy though don t forget that back on the line and stroke and distance are also available options. Or drop within two club lengths not nearer the hole of the unplayable lie. A lie is said to be unplayable when the ball is positioned in such a way as to make it virtually impossible to be hit by the golfer. Or drop behind the unplayable lie spot going back as far as you want keeping the original spot between the hole and the new place where you drop.

Only the player him herself can determine if their ball is unplayable. If you are in the middle of a big bush you might need to take 2 club lengths sideways drop the ball and then take another unplayable lie. You can either replay the shot from its original position. If you find your ball in play but in a circumstance where you are not able to make a swing or advance the ball then you are always entitled to claim an unplayable lie.

The rule for an unplayable lie rule 28 as written in the usga rules of golf is as follows. If a ball is unplayable in a penalty area the player s only relief option is to take penalty relief under rule 17. A player declaring an unplayable lie is assessed a penalty stroke and allowed to drop in accordance with the rules of golf. For example a ball nestled deep into bushes or lying between tree roots may be deemed unplayable.

The player is the sole judge as to whether his ball is unplayable. There are three specific options. A player is the only person who may decide to treat his or her ball as unplayable by taking penalty relief under rule 19 2 or 19 3. Once an unplayable lie has been determined the player has 3 options for relief under a.

The player may deem his ball unplayable at any place on the course except when the ball is in a water hazard. An unplayable lie can even be declared in a bunker allowing a player to take a drop inside the bunker for a one stroke penalty or take the ball out of the bunker for a two stroke penalty. If your ball is in a water hazard you need to use the rules associated with water hazards to determine your relief. Unplayable ball relief is allowed anywhere on the course except in a penalty area.

A lie or ball position from which the golfer cannot reasonably play a shot but from which he is not allowed free relief. Drop the ball within two club lengths of the unplayable ball but no nearer the hole. An unplayable lie may be taken anywhere except in a water hazard. If a player s ball is in an unplayable lie there are three options after a one stroke penalty has been added to your score.