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One of the core functions of the USGA is to write and interpret the Rules of Golf. The Association does this in conjunction with the R&A in St. Andrews, Scotland. The USGA also sets guidelines for competitions and Amateur Status. Learn and play by the rules for maximum enjoyment of the game. We’re here to help.

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19-2/8 Player's Ball Strikes Opponent's or Fellow-Competitor's Bag Left Ahead By Shared Caddie
Q:

A and B are either opponents in match play or fellow-competitors in stroke play and they are sharing a caddie. They are on the teeing ground and the caddie is positioned where their tee shots would be expected to come to rest. A's tee shot comes to rest well short of the caddie and B's tee shot comes to rest near the caddie. Without specific directions from either A or B, the caddie leaves B's bag near B's ball and returns with A's bag to A's ball. A's next stroke strikes B's bag. What is the ruling?



A:

The Definition of "Caddie" states in part: "When one caddie is employed by more than one player, he is always deemed to be the caddie of the player sharing the caddie whose ball (or whose partner's ball) is involved, and equipment carried by him is deemed to be that player's equipment, except when the caddie acts upon specific directions of another player...." As no specific directions were given to the caddie by B, B's bag is deemed to be A's equipment in this case. It is irrelevant that the caddie was not carrying B's bag at the time A's ball struck it.

A incurs a penalty of one stroke and must play his ball as it lies unless the ball has come to rest in or on B's bag -- Rule 19-2. (Revised)

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