New Local Rule 8E.E-3
Currently there are some areas of bare soil patches at the interface between collars and the general area where Kikuyu has been treated with herbicides.
The committee is aware that this is unfair if a ball lies in such a bare patch so close to the green.
Members should note that annual collar renovations are commencing Monday the 20th November.
Normal works on the collars during the renovation include scarifying, coring, sanding and fertilising. In addition, the plan is to treat the larger bare patches by couch plug grafting to correct the problem. Over time these plugs will integrate with the couch turf collar.
As a result of the renovation process the collars will be treated as abnormal course condition until they recover, and a preferred lie will be available.
The Local Rule E-3 is as follows:
“When any part of a player’s ball touches or is on the collar part of the general area of the course, the player may take free relief because of abnormal course condition.
The reference point is the spot on which the ball lies on the collar, in the general area (but not onto the green)
Players have a preferred lie area of 15cm from the spot, which must be no nearer the hole and in the general area.
When taking a preferred lie, the player may mark the spot, lift and clean the ball, take relief as directed above, and place the ball on selected spot.
For further detail on how to use the correct procedure for taking relief see Rule 14.2b and 14.2e.
Notes:
1) There may be occasion when your ball lies in both the collar and the green. If so, the ball is deemed to be on the green which is a specific area of the course (rule 2.2c), as opposed to the collar which is part of the general area.
2) When putting on the green you may stand on the collars.
3) Please repair plug holes on the collars and greens to help to maintain the high standard of the course.
4) Lastly, please repair divots created in the general areas, both on the mown portion and in the rough.
Cheers and happy golfing!
Graeme MacDougal
Chairman Greens Committee
