Potential BJG Golf Rule Changes for 2025: A Look at Lost Balls and Divots

As we look ahead to 2025, the BJG golf rules will remain unchanged. However, two specific rule change requests have made their way to Broken Joe Golf Headquarters. These potential changes could impact both the pace of play and the fairness of play on the course. Let’s dive into the details of these proposed changes.

1. Lost Ball Rule: A One-Stroke Penalty?

When a player loses their ball, they must drive to the spot where the ball was last seen, not where they think it might have landed. From there, they move straight across to the fairway, no closer to the hole, and measure two club-lengths to drop their new ball from knee height. This comes with a two-stroke penalty (Alternate to Stroke & Distance).

However, there has been a request to change this rule to a one-stroke penalty rather than two. The primary reason for this proposal is to speed up the pace of play, which is always a concern in a game that can sometimes be slowed down by lengthy ball searches.

Why consider this change?

While the current rule is designed to ensure fairness, a one-stroke penalty could result in a quicker resolution and fewer delays, especially during a round when everyone is eager to keep moving. This request comes from a member who feels that reducing the penalty could make the game more enjoyable and efficient for all players involved.

It’s important to consider that this change could also lead to more "loose" play. Some may argue that reducing the penalty makes it easier for players to play carelessly, but we’ll need to weigh that carefully.

For players who haven’t moved forward, a provisional ball may still be played, and the standard Stroke & Distance rule will apply. But if the one-stroke penalty is implemented, this could alter how quickly rounds progress.

2. Moving Balls from Divots: A New Approach?

Another request has emerged regarding balls that land in divots created by other players and not repaired. Should players be allowed to move their ball out of these divots? The current rule does not allow for any movement without penalty unless the ball is in an Abnormal Course Condition.

What’s the reason behind the change?

The logic here is simple: divots left unrepaired can significantly affect the lie of a ball, causing an unfair disadvantage. Allowing players to move their balls out of such divots might make the game fairer and less frustrating, particularly for players who find themselves repeatedly hitting from poor lies caused by others.

However, there are some concerns about defining what qualifies as a divot. If players are allowed to move their ball from every "divot" they encounter, we risk turning the course into a “divot-free zone” where players are constantly moving their balls to avoid disadvantages. The balance between fairness and maintaining the challenge of the game is crucial here.

What might the rule look like?

If this change were to be implemented, it would likely come with certain guidelines to limit abuse. For example, players may be required to move the ball only when the divot is clearly visible and created by someone else. Additionally, a system of verification among group members could help ensure the rule is being applied fairly.

3. Plugged Ball Rule: No Changes Here

Lastly, a quick note on a plugged ball: This rule has been in effect for few years, and it will remain unchanged. If a ball is plugged in the ground, players may pick it up, clean it, and drop it one club length away from the original spot, without getting any closer to the hole. No penalty is assessed in this case.

In cases where the ball is plugged into a soaked, swampy area, the player may drop it in the nearest dry area, but still not closer to the hole. Additionally, if a ball is lost in a plugged position in the fairway, it can be dropped there with no penalty, but only if the group agrees that it landed in the fairway and was more likely plugged due to the wet conditions.

Your Thoughts?

These proposed rule changes aim to address some common concerns and potentially improve the pace of play. Still, they also raise important questions about fairness and how much the game should be “adjusted” to accommodate certain situations.

What do you think? Should the penalty for a lost ball be reduced to a single stroke? Should players be allowed to move their ball out of a divot caused by another? These changes could shape the way we approach the game in the future.

Let your thoughts be known by answering the two poll questions.

I hope you have a Happy Valentine's Day and Happy President's Day.

Respectfully,

Broken Joe

Commissioner