Relief for an Embedded Ball - Rule 16.3

During the winter season there will be times when your ball may become embedded (plugged) on the course. 

Your ball is embedded only if it is in its own pitch-mark made as a result of your previous stroke and part of your ball is below the level of the ground.

To promote fair play and to help protect the course you may take free relief under Rule 16.3.

If this happens in the general area (not bunkers or penalty areas) you may take free relief by dropping the original ball or another ball. The player may clean their ball before dropping it.

The area for free relief is taken from the Reference Point (the spot right behind where the ball is embedded) and is measured as one club length (you can use your driver) from the Reference Point but must not be nearer the hole. 

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