When a golf ball comes to rest on a cart path, golfers often face a dilemma of whether to play it as it lies or take a penalty drop. While the rules allow for a free drop from the cart path, there are situations where playing the ball from the path could be the best option. Here are some reasons why playing the golf ball from the cart path could be advantageous:

1. Improved Ball Position: When a ball lands on the cart path, it can often result in a favorable ball position. The ball sits higher, providing an elevated view and potentially a cleaner strike. This can be beneficial when trying to clear hazards or when the intended target is within reach.
2. Increased Distance: The hard surface of the cart path can provide a significant boost in distance compared to hitting from the grass. The ball tends to roll further and carry longer when struck from the path, which can be advantageous when trying to reach a distant green or clear a hazard.
3. Enhanced Shot Options: Playing the ball from the cart path opens up additional shot options. Golfers can take advantage of the firm surface to play low, running shots that can navigate obstacles or achieve greater control. It provides an opportunity to be creative with shot selection and execute a shot that might not be possible from the surrounding terrain.
4. Avoiding Penalties: Opting to play the ball from the cart path eliminates the need for a penalty stroke. By utilizing the unique characteristics of the path, golfers can advance the ball toward their target without incurring an additional stroke. This can be crucial in a competitive round or when trying to minimize scorecard damage.
5. Time-Saving: Taking a drop from the cart path involves additional time to assess the nearest point of relief, drop the ball, and resume play. In situations where the ball is lying favorably on the path, playing it can save valuable time, especially in a busy round or when playing under time constraints.
6. Confidence Boost: Successfully executing a shot from the cart path can provide a confidence boost and momentum in the round. It demonstrates skill, adaptability, and the ability to handle challenging situations. This positive mindset can carry over to subsequent shots and improve overall performance.

While playing the ball from the cart path can have advantages, there are also considerations to keep in mind:

• Risk of Damage: Hitting from the cart path can cause damage to both the ball and the club. The hard surface can scuff or scratch the cover of the golf ball, affecting its performance. Additionally, striking the path with a club can result in damage to the clubhead or shaft.
• Impact on Accuracy: The firm surface of the cart path may not provide the same level of control and accuracy as hitting from the fairway or rough. Golfers need to consider the potential for errant shots or unpredictable bounces when deciding to play from the path.
• Safety: It is essential to prioritize safety when playing from the cart path. Be aware of any obstructions or hazards that could come into play during the shot. Take precautions to avoid injuring yourself or others in the process.

Ultimately, the decision to play a golf ball from the cart path depends on the specific circumstances, the golfer's skill level, and the potential risks and rewards. Assess the situation carefully, consider the available options, and make an informed decision that best suits your game and the current conditions on the course.

When the average amateur finds his golf ball lying on a cart path, the typical reaction is to pick it up and take a free drop onto the nearest patch of grass (no nearer the hole, of course).

Professional golfers don’t always act so automatically. In fact, it’s common for a pro to play a shot right off a cart path.

Why do they risk cracking a club on rock-hard concrete, and possibly injuring themselves in the bargain, when grassy relief may be mere feet away? For one thing, pros are capable of picking the ball cleanly off the surface, even swinging at full speed. But they’ll only chance it if taking a drop will obstruct their line to the hole or result in a poor lie.

Unless you’re a low-handicapper with excellent control of the clubhead – and lots of confidence — taking a full rip at a ball on the cart path isn’t recommended. What you don’t want is to make a tentative swing that causes you to pull up in fear at the last instant – you’ll most likely top the shot.

That said, here are factors that make a cart-path shot worth a try:

• Your drop option(s) put you in an unfavorable position or lie.

• You only need to advance the ball a short distance, requiring only a partial swing.

• The shot doesn’t require much if any height and can be rolled to the target, with no hazards or obstacles in the line.

• The ball is lying on a smooth patch of path. (If it’s sitting between ridges or ripples, it may bounce unpredictably on contact.)

If conditions are right, use a long to medium iron (3-6), a hybrid club or fairway wood; grip down the shaft an inch or more for control, and to keep the club’s sole above the surface; play the ball in the middle of your stance; make a shallow swing that picks or sweeps the ball off the path; keep your eyes and shoulders down through impact — and try not to flinch!

Q&A:

Q1: What should a golfer do when their ball lands on a cart path? A1: When a golfer's ball lands on a cart path, they have a few options. They can take a free drop within one club length of the nearest point of relief, no closer to the hole, or they can play the ball as it lies on the cart path. Another option is to declare the ball unplayable and take a penalty stroke, allowing them to drop the ball within two club lengths of the original spot or back on the line between the hole and the point where the ball crossed the edge of the cart path.

Q2: What factors should a golfer consider when deciding whether to play the ball from the cart path? A2: When deciding whether to play the ball from the cart path, golfers should consider the lie of the ball, the height of the grass surrounding the path, and any obstacles or hazards that may be in the way of their intended shot. If the lie is favorable and there are no significant obstacles, playing the ball from the cart path may be the best option.

Q3: Is there a risk of damaging clubs when hitting a shot from the cart path? A3: Yes, hitting a shot from the cart path can pose a risk of damaging clubs, especially if the path is made of concrete or a hard surface. Golfers should use caution and may choose to use an older club or a club they are less concerned about damaging for such shots.

Q4: What are the advantages of playing the ball from the cart path? A4: The main advantage of playing the ball from the cart path is that it allows golfers to potentially advance the ball closer to the green with their shot. If the lie is good, it can be a viable option to avoid taking a penalty stroke or dealing with a difficult drop.

Q5: Are there any rules or restrictions when playing a ball from the cart path? A5: When playing a ball from the cart path, golfers must take their stance on the path itself. They cannot stand on the grass or other surfaces adjacent to the cart path to play the shot.

Q6: What should a golfer do if their ball is on the cart path near an obstruction, such as a tree or a bunker? A6: If there is an obstruction near the ball on the cart path that interferes with the intended shot, the golfer may choose to take a free drop within one club length of the nearest point of relief, no closer to the hole.

Q7: Can a golfer request a different drop from the cart path if the initial drop is not suitable for their shot? A7: No, once a golfer has taken a drop from the cart path, they must play the ball from the new spot. They cannot request another drop unless they are faced with a separate situation that allows for a new drop (e.g., an unplayable lie).

Q8: Should a golfer consult with their playing partners or a rules official before deciding how to proceed from the cart path? A8: While it's not mandatory, consulting with playing partners or a rules official can be helpful in some situations, especially if there is uncertainty about the best course of action. They can provide guidance on the rules and help the golfer make an informed decision.

Q9: Are there any specific rules or guidelines for playing a ball from the cart path in match play versus stroke play? A9: The rules for playing a ball from the cart path are the same for both match play and stroke play. Golfers must follow the rules of golf and adhere to the guidelines for taking relief or playing the ball from its original location.

Q10: What are some common mistakes golfers make when playing a ball from the cart path? A10: Common mistakes when playing a ball from the cart path include not properly taking relief within one club length, standing off the cart path to hit the shot, or not considering the potential risks to their clubs when hitting from a hard surface.

Q11: Are there any specific tips for hitting shots successfully from the cart path? A11: When hitting shots from the cart path, golfers should use caution to avoid damaging their clubs. They can try using a softer touch and avoid taking full swings to minimize the risk of mishits or club damage.

Q12: What is the general consensus among professional golfers when their ball lands on the cart path? A12: Professional golfers generally assess the situation carefully when their ball lands on the cart path. They weigh the potential risks and rewards and decide whether playing the ball from the path is a viable option or if taking relief would be a better strategic choice.