In the last issue we talked about the marshals duties at the tee box, next we will cover the areas between the tee box and the green. You will assist in maintaining the pace of play by watching the flight of all golf shots so you know where they land. Watch for balls going into a water hazard and be helpful in determining the spot where the ball entered the hazard. Under no circumstances, however, should you offer any advice regarding a ruling. Rules Officials will be on site to make all calls relating to the rules.
Marshals may be required to operate crosswalks and spectators should not be allowed to enter until the contestants have passed through. Contestants, Caddies, Standard Bearers, Walking Scorers, Referees and Media must leave a green and walk to the next tee without interference.
There will be times when balls land outside the ropes and into the gallery. Marshals must watch the flight of these balls and warn the spectators of these errant shots. When a shot is pulled or sliced into the rough it is up to the marshal to indicate in which direction the ball is heading to forewarn the gallery. If possible, judge where the ball will land and run to that spot to warn the people in that area. When a ball lands outside the ropes, either around the green or off the fairway, immediately go to the ball. One marshal should protect the ball while the other marshals clear a path from the ball to the green. This is one of the most difficult tasks you will have to face, because the people who need to be moved in order to make a clear path to the green will want to see the shot and may resist giving the player enough room. Before the player reaches his ball, you must have a wide path cleared to the green and a straight line to the flagstick, giving the player plenty of room to make the shot. Next issue will review the duties on the putting green.