golf imperatives web pdf

Hit it find it and hit it again
Like any instruction book, the rules of golf gain volume with each new edition. In trying to
simplify the rules often they become more complicated. Referees are also trained to a higher
level, having to pass exams on a regular basis to keep their status. Unfortunately this progress
is sometimes lost on the average club or social player, although they manage to get tangled in
the rules occasionally when they venture into a club competition. Many a bad day has been
had on the golf course, not from poor play, but from an altercation with another player due to
a rule misunderstanding. Rules classes and training for members sometimes exacerbate the
problem as a little knowledge can make many experts.
There is an old adage which stands the test of time and can be relied on in most situations.
"Hit it, find it, hit it again". This is the basis for the rules of golf. Anything else comes under
the heading "exceptions" which account for 90% of the current rule book and are the source
of many an argument. The only necessary "exception" arises when you cannot hit your ball.
Here you either return to where the last shot was played, drop a ball within 2 club lengths or
drop the ball along a line from the flag and never nearer the hole.
"Hit it find it hit it again, with one exception". This simple interpretation of the rules can be
applied in most situations. A recent high profile breach of the rules could have been avoided
had Tiger Woods understood the rules in this way. Woods was controversially given a 2 shot
penalty on the 13th hole during the Masters for dropping his ball in the wrong place. His
correct option was to drop his ball along a line between the flag and the point where his ball
crossed the hazard.
Next time you need help from the rules of golf try "Hit it, find it, hit it again" with one
exception of course. I guarantee it will cover almost all situations you face, and more
importantly let you concentrate on your game and not the distraction of your partner who is
more intent on arguing about rule 24.1 than playing their own game.
16 GOLF IMPERATIVES