Why do the caddies hold the flag?

[raley001]

We see this on all the pro tours where the caddies hold the flag between them. Why not lay the flag on the fringe out of the way of play? Just wondering?

[One Putter]

Among caddies, on those caliber of golf courses, the flag touching the ground is not an option.....

[95124hacker]

What else do the caddies have to do on the greens? Holding the flag in your hands prevents it from flapping in the wind and disturbing players over their putts.

[2putttom]

tradition. noticed that the caddie holding the pin his guy is closest to the hole?

[Pepperturbo]

If any players ball accidentally hits a flag stick on the ground, that player may face a penalty, depending, and won't be happy. Flag stick penalties only apply when playing on the green.

[Barfolomew]

prob don't wanna bend over to pick it up...