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Ace or Not…That is The Question?

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Let’s be real here – After all, It’s a safe space – LOL, but honestly, We ALL hate that guy – The Flippin’ Rules Guy: He seemingly knows all and is always – ALWAYS watching…chirping in wherever he gets the unsolicited opportunity. There is usually one in every group. However, here is a situation we just may need him for! I don’t always like said rules guy…but when I do need him, I prefer him to be correct! (Or even better – to rule in my favor TBH) All that aside, We got a question that we had to call in our dedicated rules official for. Check out the ruling below and let us know what you think…

Question: While playing a par 3, the first player’s ball stopped about a foot from the hole. The third player’s shot from the tee hit the first ball into the hole. Not sure what the call is. Two good shots, by the way, but was the 1st shot a hole-in-one?  – Ken

Answer: Simply put – NO – We will explain why below. The Rules of Golf are tricky! Thankfully, we’ve got the guru. Our Rules Guy knows the book front to back. Got a question? He’s got all the answers. Buckle up here we go…What do the official rules say about a ball that goes in the hole after being bounced by another ball? Answer below ??? – AKA Keep reading

First off, Ken, those are some fine players you’re surrounding yourself with. But I must ask…what happened with the second player’s shot? Was it yours? Did we snap a duck hook out of bounds? Inquiring minds want to know! OK- OK – I’ll pump the brakes, sorry, it just seems like you play with some sticks in your group and we want in! #Respect

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Regardless, here’s the official ruling: the first ball is replaced back to where it was, and the other ball is played as it lies — with no penalty to either, obviously — under Rules 9.6 and 11.1. Obviously we want to card that a 1 but the rules say it was a nice tap in birdie…Keep hanging out with such super sticks, as it may rub off on you! Wait – Nobody is rubbing off on anyone on this site – PERIOD!

For more partner ball guidance from our guru, read on … This is a legit question we received, and it’s a pretty good one…The answer was shocking

Question: If a handkerchief is considered an “artificial object” as it relates to gauging wind, what about cigar smoke? I often play with one or more smokers, and cigar smoke is a perfect indicator of wind direction and velocity. Does observing this smoke result in a penalty for the observer? — Richard

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Answer: Simply Put YES, ONLY if it was intended – We know it’s tricky, but let us explain – First off: Kids, don’t smoke — and don’t break the Rules of Golf. 2 pieces of wisdom that we will give you for FREE. That’s just how we do. We explain the ruling below.

This may seem irrational, but think about it. Because cigars et al. are artificial objects, per Rule 4.3a(2) using any of these things for the specific purpose of gauging wind-related information would be an issue.

Might I say, having a handkerchief on the course itself isn’t a breach but using it as a quasi-wind sock is, the same is true with cigarettes, cigars, pipes, etc. Smoking is a health issue but not a rules issue — well, generally.

So, Richard, if there is a smoker in your group — let’s call him Camel Joe— and he is breaching this rule, he would get the general penalty of two strokes in stroke play and loss of hole-in-match play for the first offense and DQ’d upon a second offense.

Assuming you didn’t ask Camel Joe to blow smoke in order to pick up its signals, you, my friend, are in the clear — save for the dangers of secondhand smoke and your friend has a name that sounds like a hottie in yoga pants.

Got a question about the Rules? Ask the Rules Guy! Send your queries, confusions, and comments to [email protected]. We promise he won’t throw the book at you.

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How To Shoot 13 On One Hole Like A Pro!

Stay out of the bunkers!

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During the 2025 American Express, PGA Tour rookie William Mouw found himself in a deep, 20-foot bunker on the par-5 16th hole—famously known as the “San Andreas Fault” for its ability to frustrate even seasoned pros.

Mouw’s shots went from bad to worse: after escaping the bunker twice, he’d end up back in it. After an epic 13 strokes, he followed up with a triple bogey on the 17th.

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Despite a 5-under 67 in the next round, he missed the cut by 9 shots.

The lesson is to remain resilient despite setbacks. The 16th hole demonstrated how quickly things can go sideways, but his ability to shake off the octuple bogey and finish the weekend strong with a 67 shows that recovery and perseverance are key. Golf is unpredictable, but staying positive and focused on the next shot is crucial. Mouw’s resilience in the face of adversity can be an important learning experience as he moves forward in his career.

Golf: always full of surprises!

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Reinventing the Game We Love

Golf is evolving with innovative formats like TGL’s tech-fueled arenas and the World Series of Golf’s poker-inspired strategy, blending tradition with modern excitement.

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Golf, my friends, is no longer just about walking the pristine fairways of Augusta or sinking a 30-foot birdie putt on the 18th at St. Andrews. No, the game is evolving, stretching its traditional boundaries in ways that might make Old Tom Morris do a double take. From tech-fueled formats like the TGL to the high-stakes innovation of the World Series of Golf, golf is embracing a bold new future. Let’s dive into these groundbreaking formats that are shaking up the game, one swing at a time.

Tech Meets Tradition

Imagine a golf league where cutting-edge technology meets the competitive spirit of team sports. That’s the promise of the TGL, a new format backed by heavyweights like Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. Set to launch soon, the TGL is played on a state-of-the-art virtual course in a high-energy arena, complete with live crowds and fast-paced action.

Gone are the long walks and contemplative silences—this is golf reimagined for the modern audience. Think Monday Night Football vibes, but with drivers, wedges, and a lot less tackling (unless someone gets really heated over a bunker shot). The TGL is set to bring in new fans, especially those who love the thrill of eSports and tech-driven experiences.

Why It Matters:
The TGL is making golf faster, more interactive, and more accessible for younger audiences who want action, not just tradition. It’s proof that golf can evolve without losing its soul.

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Poker Meets the Fairway

Speaking of innovation, let’s talk about a format that combines the strategy of poker with the skills of golf: the World Series of Golf. This isn’t your typical weekend scramble. It’s a high-stakes competition where every shot counts, not just for your score but for the chips in your hand.

Here’s how it works: Players bet on their own abilities with each shot, calculating risk and reward just like in a poker hand. Do you play it safe and lay up, or go all-in for the green? The World Series of Golf isn’t just a test of your swing—it’s a test of your nerves, your strategy, and your ability to read the game (and maybe your opponents).

Why It’s Exciting:
The World Series of Golf adds a layer of mental gymnastics to the game, making it as much about psychology and risk-taking as it is about hitting a perfect shot. Plus, the format is ripe for TV, offering drama and intrigue that’s hard to match.

These innovative formats aren’t just novelties; they’re lifelines for a sport looking to grow its audience. Traditional golf is beautiful, sure, but let’s face it—four-hour rounds and hushed commentary aren’t for everyone. Formats like TGL and the World Series of Golf bring energy, accessibility, and excitement, appealing to both die-hard fans and newcomers who might find 18 holes of stroke play a bit daunting.

These innovations also open the door for a more inclusive golf culture. With shorter formats and new ways to engage, golf can attract younger players, diverse audiences, and anyone who’s ever thought, “Golf looks fun, but do I have the time?” Spoiler: You do now.

The beauty of these new formats is that they’re just the beginning. Imagine even more creative takes on the game—urban golf leagues, drone-assisted gameplay, or even VR tournaments where you can compete against the pros from your living room. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this moment so exciting.

Golf isn’t losing its roots; it’s growing new branches. The core of the game—the precision, the strategy, the camaraderie—is still there. But with innovations like TGL and the World Series of Golf, the game is proving it can evolve while staying true to what makes it great.

So here’s to the future of golf: a world where tradition meets innovation, and the next great shot could happen anywhere—from a virtual course to a poker-style showdown. Swing on, my friends, because the game we love is only getting better.

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Watch Football & Get Better At Golf. Here’s How!

This will require you get off the couch.

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Staying in shape and maintaining your golf swing during the winter months can be challenging, especially with the temptation to spend weekends indoors watching football. However, these two seemingly disparate activities can complement each other. By incorporating football viewing, especially during the exciting NFL playoffs, with strategic exercises, you can stay engaged with sports and improve your golf game.

How Watching the NFL Playoffs Can Help Your Swing

NFL playoff games offer natural breaks in the action – timeouts, commercials, and halftime – which can be utilized for short bursts of exercise. These breaks are ideal for:

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  • Dynamic Warm-ups: During the pre-game, between quarters, or longer breaks, perform dynamic stretches like leg swings, arm circles, and torso twists. These movements improve flexibility and prepare your muscles for activity, mirroring the warm-up routines used by professional golfers.
  • Swing Practice: Utilize shorter breaks for practice swings, focusing on maintaining proper form and grip. Imagine yourself on the course and visualize your swing, even without a club. This mental and physical rehearsal helps reinforce muscle memory.
  • Core Engagement Exercises: Core strength is essential for a stable and powerful swing. During breaks, perform exercises like planks, side planks, and Russian twists. These exercises can be easily done in front of the TV without requiring any equipment.

Maximizing Your Football-Watching Workout (Especially During the Playoffs!)

To make the most of this approach:

  • Create a Routine: Plan which exercises you’ll perform during different parts of the game. Having a structured routine will help you stay consistent and make the most of the breaks.
  • Focus on Quality over Quantity: Short, focused bursts of exercise are more effective than long, drawn-out sessions. Prioritize proper form and technique over the number of repetitions.
  • Stay Hydrated: Keep a water bottle handy and sip throughout the game. Proper hydration is crucial for muscle function and overall performance.

By combining your passion for football, especially the high-stakes action of the NFL playoffs, with strategic exercises, you can maintain your fitness, improve your golf swing, and enjoy the best of both worlds during the winter months.

Bottom’s Up and Bottom Line:
This is about doing something. Even 10 minutes a day is better than nothing. It’ll keep you from completely seizing up during the winter months. So when the sun finally comes out, you’ll be able to at least half-decently swing a club, rather than looking like you’ve just been defrosted. Plus, you might even feel a little less creaky.

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