Change of rule regarding Bunkers
The General Committee has reviewed the rules regarding bunkers during Covid restrictions and has decided that from Monday the 13th of July the Club will adopt the “preferred lies” option for all competition golf. This means that a player whose ball is in a bunker has the option of lifting and placing it in the bunker within 6 inches of its original position (not nearer the hole) without penalty. The area must not be smoothed before placing.
England Golf only allows two options, the Abnormal Course Conditions (GUR) rule that we have been using and the “preferred lies” choice that we are now adopting.
Our course has two major defences, its length and its bunkers so taking one away has a significant effect. Monitoring the state of the bunkers has shown that, in the vast majority of cases, a decent lie can be found within the 6 inch allowance. Other factors that have informed this decision are that the Greenkeeping Team are now back to full strength allowing better bunker maintenance and the rule is easier to interpret.
This change will mean that, out of respect for your fellow golfers, you should make a very good attempt to remove your footprints as you leave a bunker by “raking” with your feet or smoothing with your club. As an alternative you could invest in a personal portable rake which can be found at https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Personal-Mini-Golf-Rake-Attachment-/263866802035 among other places.
Steve Parrett
PDF link below on the latest on the upcoming World Handicap System from the handicap secretaries:
World Handicap System Update 9th July 2020 for Members
And finally – news on how to enter the Autumn Vases and the Div 2 Masters from your competition secretary:
Division 2 Masters Entry Info Event Sat 30th Aug 2020
Autumn Vases Entry Notice – Event Sat 5th Sept. 2020
Kind regards
SWGC Blogger
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