Golfing has some unusual rules and to the average non-golfer, some of these rules might seem bizarre and silly. Along with the strange rules, golf scoring is odd, and the terminology for scoring isn’t used in other sports, so it’s challenging to get acquainted with it. With the odd golf rules that follow, it’s easy to see why golf is a phenomenon. Here are some of the wackiest golf rules we’ve ever heard of.
CACTUS
Some of us have never played on a golf course with cacti, or cactus, even though we do technically live in a desert. For those of you that have, have you ever hit a ball a little too close to one? You’re in luck, because there is a golf rule in place for situations just like this. If your ball lands near a cactus, you may protect yourself from the prickly cactus, by wrapping your arm or leg closest in a towel. For some reason, you are not allowed to wrap the cactus in a towel.
FAULTY CLUBS
If you’re taking a swing and your club head falls off, you may be entitled to another swing, but it is entirely based upon what part of the swing you were on when your club head fell off. If you swing and your club head falls off during your downswing, it counts as a stroke. If your club head falls off during your back swing, it does not count as a stroke, and you may take another.
WATER
Every golfer has experienced the unfortunate situation of hitting your ball into a water feature. If your ball lands in a water hazard, did you know you are still allowed to take a stroke? However, you are not allowed to wait for the current to move your ball into a better position.
FRUIT OR OTHER NATURAL OBSTACLES
Perhaps someone didn’t finish their mid-game snack…and you find a half-eaten apple laying on the course. It is still considered a natural object, therefor you can’t remove it without a penalty. If your ball lands inside a deserted orange peel, you must play the ball as it is, or decide that it’s unplayable.
SNAKES
If you are unlucky enough to encounter a snake on the golf course, there are rules of engagement. Live snakes are considered outside agencies, and they cannot be removed before play. A dead snake on the golf course, however, is treated as a loose impediment and can be removed.
There are many odd rules and circumstances that arise in golf, but it can be part of what makes the game so fun. The next time you head out on the course, remember these wacky rules~ they make for some great conversation and banter with your golf mates!