What Is A Provisional Ball In Golf

What is a Provisional Ball in Golf?

I was playing in a tournament a few weeks ago, and I hit my tee shot into the woods. I wasn’t sure if I would be able to find it, so I played a provisional ball. As it turned out, I was able to find my original ball, but I ended up hitting the provisional ball better. So, what is a provisional ball in golf?

A provisional ball is a ball that is played when the original ball is lost or out of bounds. The player must declare that they are playing a provisional ball before hitting it. If the original ball is found, the player must continue to play that ball. If the original ball is not found, the player may continue to play the provisional ball.

When to Play a Provisional Ball

There are a few situations in which it is advisable to play a provisional ball.

• When your original ball is hit into a hazard (such as a water hazard or a bunker).
• When your original ball is hit out of bounds.
• When your original ball is lost in the rough.

If you are not sure whether or not you should play a provisional ball, it is always better to err on the side of caution and play one.

How to Play a Provisional Ball

To play a provisional ball, simply hit another ball from the same spot as your original ball. You must declare that you are playing a provisional ball before hitting it. You can do this by saying “provisional ball” or “provisional” to your playing partners.

If you find your original ball, you must continue to play that ball. If you do not find your original ball, you may continue to play the provisional ball. However, you must hole out with the provisional ball. You cannot switch back to your original ball once you have holed out with the provisional ball.

Tips for Playing a Provisional Ball

Here are a few tips for playing a provisional ball:

• Play the provisional ball from the same spot as your original ball.
• Declare that you are playing a provisional ball before hitting it.
• If you find your original ball, continue to play that ball.
• If you do not find your original ball, continue to play the provisional ball.
• Hole out with the provisional ball.

FAQ on Provisional Balls

Here are a few frequently asked questions about provisional balls:

Q: What happens if I hit my provisional ball out of bounds?

A: If you hit your provisional ball out of bounds, you must take a one-stroke penalty and play another provisional ball.

Q: What happens if I find my original ball after I have played my provisional ball?

A: If you find your original ball after you have played your provisional ball, you must continue to play your original ball.

Q: Can I switch back to my original ball once I have holed out with the provisional ball?

A: No, you cannot switch back to your original ball once you have holed out with the provisional ball.

Conclusion

Playing a provisional ball can be a helpful way to save time and strokes. By following the tips above, you can play a provisional ball correctly and avoid any penalties.

So, are you ready to start playing provisional balls?