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No Penalty After Olazabal Clips Branch on Practice Swing at Masters

The no-call underscores the judgment involved in applying golf's Rule 8.1a at major events.

Overview

  • Jose Maria Olazabal, during a practice backswing on the par-5 second hole on Thursday, clipped a branch and knocked loose leaves overhead.
  • No penalty was applied on the hole by Olazabal, his playing partners, or an on-course rules official.
  • Rule 8.1a bars actions that improve conditions for a stroke, and a breach typically results in a one-stroke penalty.
  • Olazabal said after signing for a 2-over 74 that he did not notice the contact, and officials have not changed his score.
  • Playing partner Aldrich Potgieter posted a 12-over 84, providing a sharp contrast within the same group.