Columnist: Golf Rules
New Golf Rules for 2019
USGA’s new golf rules go into effect January 1. These changes were meant to help speed up the game and make it fair for every golfer. To assure you know the changes and understand how they may affect your game, visit the USGA website: http://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/rules-hub/rules-modernization/major-changes/major-changes.html Plus, the Northern Ohio Golf Association, Ohio Golf Association, Miami […]
How the Golf Rules Help, When Balls Collide!
By Richard Todd On the 18th green of the 72nd hole of the 2018 World Golf Championship-HSBC Champions in Shanghai last month, Xander Schauffele’s ball settled on the back edge of the green. Perilously close to a steep embankment that would have allowed the ball to run down into the water surrounding the green. Next […]
Poor Playing Conditions & The Rules
By Richard Todd Heavy rains interrupted the third round of the BMW championship. Morning tee times were pushed back until afternoon, groups were reorganized into threesomes, and the preferred lies rule was put into place. This little used rule allows players to lift their golf ball, clean it, and place it near as possible to the original spot, outside of the […]
Golf Cart Etiquette Tips
By Richard Todd Many golfers choose to ride in a cart, rather than walk. If this is your preference, then enjoy the drive, but take precautions for care and compliance, as golf carts can negatively impact the conditions of the course. To decrease damage, follow these suggestions. Some areas of the course are […]
Care for the Course
By Richard Todd For golfers, there’s nothing more reverent and appreciated than a well-manicured golf course. Yet when the grounds are in disrepair tempers flare and disappointment grows. One thing to remember is that areas of play aren’t usually damaged by the wind, rain, or animals but rather by us, the golfers. So, […]
When the Rules Don’t Apply
By Richard Todd I was at my local club and noticed a sign on the counter, “Please excuse the state of our bunkers. We are currently reshaping and refilling these hazards for better future play. You may take free relief during this process.” Under normal playing conditions, there is no current rule […]
Be Quiet or Be Penalized
By Richard Todd My father loves to give advice during our rounds. He’s like a walking range finder, caddy, swing coach, mental health instructor, course architect, and yogi. But it really makes my son mad to hear the constant suggestions of swing improvement and information. Do you have a similar playing competitor? If so, […]
Rules Lessons From The Masters Tournament
When a stroke is not a stroke By: Richard Todd Did you see Phil Mickelson’s swing from the fairway on Saturday in the third round of the Masters at Augusta National, where he completely whiffed and missed the ball? Is that a stroke and does it count on his scorecard? The answer is Yes, […]
Relief on The Putting Green
By: Richard Todd There’s a course I play regularly that if you slice your tee shot it’s possible to end up on the putting green of a previously played hole. I’ve almost scored an ace that way multiple times. I’ve even played to the wrong green given an errant shot and being unfamiliar […]
Upcoming Rules Changes for Penalty Areas
By Richard Todd Do you want to sound super smart, like a Rules Official on the golf course? During your next round, simply use the phrase, “Penalty Area.” This is the new term used by the USGA that replaces and encompasses, water hazards and bunkers. So regardless, if it’s sand or water […]