Updated: Aug 10, 2007, 12:01 AM

Vote: Are the rules of golf golden?



For a sport that doesn't see much cheating, golf sure has plenty of rules. So many, in fact, that they're all put together in one handy documentation called, coincidentally enough, the Rules of Golf.

That doesn't mean all the rules are good one, of course. Here are three old standbys that receive plenty of attention. What are your thoughts on these rules? Sound off now, SportsNation.

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  • 1) Rule 13-1: The ball must be played as it lies.

    Translation: If you hit your ball 300 yards into the dead center of the fairway and it lands in a crater-sized divot, tough luck.
  • 2) Rule 6-6d/2: Total Score Recorded by Competitor Incorrect.

    Translation: If you shoot 68 and sign for 67, you're disqualified. If you shoot 67 and sign for 68, you take the higher score. Just ask Roberto DeVicenzo.
  • 3) Appendix II, Rule 1c: The overall length of the club must be at least 18 inches (457.2 mm) and, except for putters, must not exceed 48 inches (1,219.2 mm). ... For putters, the measurement of length is taken from the top of the grip along the axis of the shaft or a straight line extension of it to the sole of the club.

    Translation: You can't hit your ball off the tee or fairway with anything that resembles a broomstick, but feel free to putt with one.

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