The flagstick is an alluring icon. In the distance, it invites your approach with a gentle wave. It is much more than simply a target, it is a destination. And as you approach your final destination, it is essential to be aware of the regulations that apply when handling the flagstick.
Contrary to many beliefs, the flagstick may be attended, removed or held up by anyone at any time during the play of the hole, even if the player’s ball is off the putting green. If you watched the Farmers Invitational in February that was held at Torrey Pines, you will remember that Phil Mickelson’s caddie, Jim “Bones” McKay, attended the flagstick on his 75-yard third shot on the 18th hole of the final round. Mickelson needed to hole the shot to force a playoff so he had the flagstick attended to maximize the chance of his ball going in. I’m sure CBS loved every minute of this because of the added drama it gave to the final hole of the event. He didn’t end up making the shot, but he did come just inches from flying it into the hole.
Why doesn’t everyone have it attended on shots like this? There are risks to having it attended that require the attendant to be sharp. On Michelson’s shot, what if Bones didn’t take the flag out, or didn’t move away from the hole and Phil’s ball struck him or the flagstick? Rule 17-3 (Ball Striking Flagstick or Attendant) states that a ball must not strike the flagstick when it is being attended, removed or held up, or strike the person that is holding it during this time. The ball also cannot strike the flagstick when it is in the hole after a stroke from the putting green. Had Mickelson’s ball struck his caddie or the flagstick, it would have cost him an additional two strokes and probably a lot of money!
So as you approach your final destination, knowing the rules of the flagstick will help ensure you arrive safely.
