In golf, if a putt ball hits the flag stick lying on the ground what is the rule?

Question

In golf, if a putt ball hits the flag stick lying on the ground what is the rule?

Answer 1

2 beer penalty and putt again with your pants around your ankles

Answer 2

If someone from your group removed the flagstick, and you hit it while it was on the ground, it is a two-stroke penalty for the person who hit the shot. (Rule 17-3). This applies whether you were on the green or not.

If the group in front of you forgot to put the flag back, and you hit the flagstick with your approach shot, there is no penalty.

There is a new rule this year. If you place the flagstick on the green, and your putt looks like it will hit the flagstick, you can move the flagstick out of the way before your ball hits it. In previous years, you had to stand there and watch yourself get a two-stroke penalty.

Answer 3

I don't think there is a rule for this.  The flag stick is not supposed to be lying on the ground.  I know this is a common practice and we all do it, but it is not supposed to be placed where it can get in the way.   My opinion is the person who is putting is responsible for making sure the flag stick is not in their way.  If their put hits the flag pin the penalty is they should have to play the next hole with their pants down and the other players should laugh at them.

Answer 4

Same you just keep on playing, its still an obstacle.

Answer 5

2 stroke penalty in stroke play, loss of hole in match play.  See rule 17.3a and Decision 17-3/3.

Answer 6

i think the rule is not to put the pin so close to the hole, or inline with the shot

Answer 7

i think it is a 2 stroke penatly but im not sure