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Rules FAQ
Rule 13-4
Raking Bunker After Stroke - Ball Still in Bunker
Q. A player`s ball is in a bunker (at Point A) that runs approximately 20 yards along the left side of the fairway. He plays a stroke and the ball advances about 10 yards towards the hole and remains in the bunker (at Point B).
May he rake the bunker at Point A before playing his stroke at Point B?
A. Yes, the player may smooth the bunker at Point A as doing so would not improve the lie of his ball, his line of play, or his area of intended stance or swing for his next stroke (at Point B) -- Exception 2 to Rule 13-4 and Decision 13-4/36.
| Note: This FAQ has been updated to reflect the 2012 Rules of Golf. |
Below you can view videos related to this Rule. | |
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| Playing the ball as it lies - Part 1 | |
Playing the ball as it lies - prohibitions |
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| Video | |
| Playing the ball as it lies - Part 2 | |
Playing the ball as it lies - exceptions |
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| Ball in an awkward lie beneath an overhanging tree branch | |
During the 2001 Memorial Tournament Scott Hoch found his ball in an awkward lie beneath an overhanging tree branch. |
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| Moving stones away by kicking them from within the water hazard | |
During the 1991 Doral Open, Paul Azinger moved stones away by kicking them from within the water hazard. According to Rule 13-4, a player shall not touch or move a loose impediment. |
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| Play a shot out of a bunker | |
At the 1986 MONY Tournament of Champions, Calvin Peete prepared to play his shot out of a bunker. In doing so, he violated Rule 13-3. |
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| A player is entitled to place his feet firmly in taking his stance | |
In 1987, at the PGA's annual event in San Diego, Craig Stadler placed a towel beneath his knees to protect his pants from the wet ground. However, coming into play was Rule 13- |
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