Rakes and Bunkers

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Valerie and Frank,
Thanks for all you two are doing for our game. I enjoy what you say every week.

You have been talking about wearing a glove when you are putting. I don’t think it makes much difference even though most PGA Tour pros do seem to take their gloves off when putting. I really should not have an opinion as I don’t wear a glove when playing golf and certainly don’t put one on for putting.

I do have an opinion on rakes left outside bunkers. Is there a recommended procedure regarding where a rake should be left? I would be interested in your views.
Michael
Naples, Florida

Michael,
Thanks for the kind words and we are pleased that you enjoy our weekly comments and information.

I too have an opinion about rakes.

There is no specific policy about where to leave them. I take my lead from those who have been involved in the game for hundreds of years.

In St Andrews, the rakes are left leaning on the edge of the bunker, which is more likely to allow an errant shot to roll into a bunker, rather than be stopped by a rake.

Rakes are also left where the golfer is most likely to enter the bunker, in most cases this is leaning against the back – the tee side not the green side — of the bunker.

This is I believe reasonable procedure, as it has some logical basis.

Michael, I also believe that the removing of every second tine in a rake – as Jack did at Muirfield Village — is a good idea and makes the bunker more of a hazard rather than a smooth surface which poses little penalty for the Tour professionals.

However for us mortals, all golfers should be considerate of others and utilize the rakes provided when exiting the bunker, leaving the surface smooth for those of us unfortunate enough to follow in their footsteps.

Let us know what you think about rakes by sharing your views below.
Frank