Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Golf In A Time of War: Precautionary Steps in Making Sure the Nazi's Don't Ruin Your Day at the Course

I recently came across a set of rules established by England's Richmond Golf Club outlining what to do in case of a German bombing during game play. At first I thought it was a hoax, but after a little research on the Richmond Golf Club's official website I found it to be true.

Temporary Rules, 1940

1. Players are asked to collect Bomb and Shrapnel splinters to save these causing damage to the mowing machines.
2. In competitions, during gunfire, or while bombs are falling, players may take cover without penalty for ceasing play.
3. The positions of known delayed-action bombs are marked by red flags placed at reasonably, but not guaranteed safe distance therefrom.
4. Shrapnel/and/or bomb splinters on the Fairways, or in Bunkers within a club’s length of a ball may be moved without penalty, and no penalty shall be incurred if a ball is thereby caused to move accidentally.
5. A ball moved by enemy action may be replaced, or if lost or destroyed, a ball may be dropped not nearer the hole without penalty.
6. A ball lying in a crater may be lifted and dropped not nearer the hole, preserving the line to the hole without penalty.
7. A player whose stroke is affected by the simultaneous explosion of a bomb may play another ball from the same place. Penalty, one stroke.


All in all, wise and fair regulations. Now the next time war breaks out at the local country club, we all know what to do. And as GI Joe would have us remember, knowing is half the battle.

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