Ball hits Opponents Golf Bag

[deasy55]

This happened last week. A player tees off and ball hits the very edge of the heel side of the club causing it to go almost straight left. It hits his opponents golf bag and drops down in front of it. Does this result in a penalty? The golf bag wasn't in the way and it was only because of the result of a freak shot that the ball hit it.

We decided that it was no penalty and play as it lies (it was just a friendly competition between friends) but wondered what would be the correct procedure in an actual competiton?

[ochmude]

I believe that rule 19-1 would be applicable here and that you made the correct call.

Quote:

19-1. By Outside Agency

If a player's ball in motion is accidentally deflected or stopped by any outside agency, it is a rub of the green, there is no penalty and the ball must be played as it lies.

[Fourputt]

While true that there is no penalty for hitting the equipment of a fellow competitor (stroke play) or opponent (match play), if you hit your opponent's equipment during a match, you have the option of immediately recalling the stroke and playing the shot again (Rule 19-3).  You cannot wait to see what he does, the decision and replay must be immediate.  If you do replay the stroke, then that is the one you score with.  You don't get to change your mind.

It is a one stroke penalty if your ball in motion strikes any of your own equipment (Rule 19-2).

[Shindig]

It is a one stroke penalty if your ball in motion strikes any of your own equipment (Rule 19-2).

I would like to add that if you're in a fourball or foursomes match, and it hits your partner's bag, it's the same penalty as if it were your bag. I think. Can someone confirm for me? I've never actually played this format.

[Fourputt]

Originally Posted by Shindig

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fourputt

It is a one stroke penalty if your ball in motion strikes any of your own equipment (Rule 19-2).

I would like to add that if you're in a fourball or foursomes match, and it hits your partner's bag, it's the same penalty as if it were your bag.

I think. Can someone confirm for me? I've never actually played this format.

Your partner(s), caddies, and equipment are all treated as if they are yours under Rule 19.