I’m back with another one of those PDGA rules you think you know everything about, but probably don’t. The topic of today’s post isn’t sexy, but it’s one you’ll want to follow …
Casual areas.
Nine times out of 10, a casual area is water – or “casual water,” as it’s usually known. It could be something other than water, but the tournament director would need to identify it as such.
Casual water refers to a temporary body of water that’s capable of both covering a disc entirely and making play relatively unsafe. Creeks, small streams and massive puddles brought about by rainfall are the most common culprits. Here’s the real kicker, though: Casual water isn’t OB.
Again, casual areas do NOT have to be water …
But they typically are.
Should you throw into casual water, you won’t be assessed a penalty stroke. Instead, you’ve got two options at your disposal: 1) You can play the disc where it lies, or 2) you can take relief.
The first option frequently results in an Instagram-worthy photo or video, as ankle-deep water makes for awkward throwing or putting. But if the original lie is close enough to the pin for a much-needed birdie, par or even bogey save, wet socks and shoes might be worth it …
Here’s what that looks like:
For the love of the game.
Taking relief is also a good idea, especially if being farther from the pin doesn’t change much. There are some KEY things you’ll want to be aware of, though – this isn’t standard stuff.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Unlike with a normal OB or two-meter penalty, you don’t get unlimited relief.
- Take relief along the line of play until a legal, out-of-water stance is possible.
- Should this result in an uncomfortable lie, so be it – that’s your new lie.
- The line of play is determined by where the disc rests, as it’s not OB.
* Note: If “line of play” is a new term for you, click here for details.
That second-to-last point is worth considering before deciding how to proceed with the hole. If you’d like to back up farther along the line of play, you can, but you’ll be taking what’s known as “optional relief.” And because of it, you’ll promptly be assessed a one-stroke penalty.
During amateur events, casual areas get played incorrectly ALL the time …
Know the rules.
Also, pay attention during players’ meetings.
Sometimes, that’s the easiest way to save strokes.
Have anything to add? Take to Twitter to let us know – we’ll actually (for real) get back to you.
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