Golf Rules Make Playing the Game So Enjoyable

BC Golf News receives many requests for explanations on the rules and here's our latest.

I was golfing this week, and one of the players in my group stated the following was a rule of golf:
- - - "If a player holes out from off the green (ball fully down in the hole), then pulls out the flag, and the ball pops out of the hole, the ball is now deemed to have not been holed and he has to putt from where the popped out ball came to rest."

I know this is true if part of the ball is not below the putting surface. I find this hard to believe, but stand to be corrected. Please advise. If he is right, please advise the rule and rule number.
Rick Sampson

BCGN
Rick, this situation is covered under the Definition "HOLED."

A golf ball is "HOLED" when it is at rest within the circumference of the hole and the entire ball is below the level of the lip of the hole. It makes no difference whether the ball was struck from off the green or putted from on the green. If the ball is below the lip of the hole that hole is completed. Mark your scorecard and move on

In this circumstance you may now reach into the cup and lift the ball out with your hand. Most course superintendents would also suggest that is the most preferable method for removing the ball rather than yanking the flag stick out and forcing the ball out at the same time because of damage that may be caused to the lip of the hole as well as breaking or pulling the liner of the cup out of the ground.

You may also wish to review Rule 17, and in particularl Rule 17-4.

It is not in the rule book but as a rule it is advisable for all players to carry a copy of the Rules of Golf. The Royal Canadian Golf Association produces a small, handy sized copy that is ideal for tucking into your bag. They are available at all pro shops or by contacting either the BC Golf Association or the RCGA.

You can also be updated on the rules of golf online by linking to the RCGA: Rules of Golf