By Cameron Cox, PGA, Glen Abbey Golf Club Head Golf Professional
Golf history is full of dramatic moments where rules made all the difference. From improper drops to unusual obstacles, even PGA Tour Pros have had their fair share of rule mishaps.
Here are three key lessons from past RBC Canadian Opens—updated to Golf Canada’s 2023 standards—to keep your game sharp and penalty-free.
1. Know Your Drop Options: Phil Mickelson’s Misstep (1993)
The Moment: In the 1993 Canadian Open, Phil Mickelson took an improper drop and unknowingly signed an incorrect scorecard. The mistake led to a disqualification—a painful lesson on the importance of knowing relief rules.
The Rule (Rule 14.3): Dropping Ball in Relief Area
Drop from knee height, straight down, into the relief area. It must stay there, or re-drop; mistakes add a stroke, and scorecard errors can end your round.
Your Edge: Master the drop rules to avoid unnecessary penalties—especially in high-pressure moments.
2. Respect the Stroke Rules: Andy Bean’s Pool Cue Fumble (1980)
The Moment: During the 1980 Canadian Open, Andy Bean attempted a pool-cue-style putt, striking the ball with the grip end of his club. The move earned him a two-stroke penalty, ultimately costing him a spot in the playoff.
The Rule (Rule 10.1a): Fairly Striking the Ball
In making a stroke:
The player must fairly strike at the ball with any part of the head of the club such that there is only momentary contact between the club and the ball and must not push, scrape or scoop the ball.
If the player’s club accidentally hits the ball more than once, there has been only one stroke and there is no penalty.
Your Edge: Keep the trick shots off the course—save the creativity for the 19th hole!
3. Watch Your Surroundings: Greg Norman’s Car Conundrum (1984)
The Moment: During the 1984 Canadian Open, Greg Norman’s ball ended up under a parked car on the 17th hole. Luckily for him, the rules allowed the car to be moved, granting him a free drop. He went on to win the tournament.
The Rule (Rule 15.2a): Relief from Movable Obstruction
If a ball comes to rest against a moveable obstruction (such as a cart, a sign, or, in Norman’s case, a car), players can remove the object and take relief. If the object is immovable, free relief allows a drop within one club-length, no closer to the hole.
When a ball is in or on a movable obstruction (such as a towel) anywhere on the course, free relief may be taken by lifting the ball, removing the movable obstruction and dropping a ball, except on the putting green where the ball is placed.
The reference point for taking relief is the estimated point right under where the ball was at rest in or on the movable obstruction.
The relief area is one club-length from the reference point, is not nearer to the hole than the reference point and must be in the same area of the course as the reference point.
Your Edge: Knowing when (and where) you’re entitled to relief can turn a tough break into an advantage.
Stay Rules-Savvy and Play with Confidence
Understanding the rules of golf isn’t just about avoiding penalties—it can also help you gain an edge. Take time to brush up on key rulings, and don’t hesitate to clarify a rule before making a decision on the course.
Have a tricky situation during a round? Check the rulebook or consult a golf pro. Staying informed ensures you make the right call—and keep your round on track.
Here’s to a great season of smart, confident golf!
