Are you a "Winter Rules" addict? Do you routinely lift and clean your golf ball and replace it on that nice tuft of grass? If so, now might be the time to consider coming clean. After all, the first step to recovery is admitting you have a winter rules problem in the first place.
Seriously, it is no secret that during much of the year in the Northwest many of us live under a drizzly, foggy cloud and endure muddy playing conditions. Or in such beautiful locations as British Columbia's interior, the Inland Empire or Treasure Valley, extreme heat can result in cracked, crusty fairways. During these unusual times when a problem is widespread and normal maintenance cannot be accomplished, winter rules or preferred lies may be justified. However, if the problem is not widespread, using Rule 25 (Abnormal Ground Conditions) should suffice. In addition, the following points listed in the Handicap System Manual also are important to consider before invoking winter rules:
A) Such a local rule conflicts with the fundamental principle of playing the ball as it lies;
B) Preferred lies is sometimes adopted under the guise of protecting the course when, in fact, the practical effect is just the opposite - it permits moving the ball to the best turf from which divots are then taken to injure the course further;
C) Preferred lies tends generally to lower scores and a Handicap Index/Factor thus penalizing players in competition with players whose scores are made without preferred lies;
D) Extended use or indiscriminate use of preferred lies will place players at a disadvantage when competing at a course where the ball must be played as it lies.
If you and your club mates are having a difficult time competing in outside tournaments or against other clubs, the culprit is probably not an inaccurate Course and Slope Rating. It is more likely winter rules being invoked too often.
I have also heard it stated, "Winter rules are a much more fair way to play. After all, it is not fair when my ball ends up in that deep divot after I just split the fairway with my drive."
Oh really? And how fair was it the previous hole when you hit that screaming slice destined for out of bounds, but it ricocheted off a tree limb back into the fairway? Just like life, golf is not always fair, but therein lies much of its charm!
Nevertheless, when invoking winter rules is justified the USGA and RCGA recommended the local rule option in the Rules of Golf (Part B in Appendix I).
Finally, for all those addicted to winter rules year round, the PNGA is pleased to recommend treatment options. Invoking Rule 25 usually leads to a full recovery!
