Trident Align Ball Marker

[JonnyGib]

20 hours ago, MadPax said:

I don't really know if this is allowed in a competition.

Look up Rule 10.2b on Pointing Out Line of Play for Ball on Putting Green.

 

It clearly states that:
"The player or caddie must not set an object down anywhere on or off the putting green to show the line of play. This is not allowed even if that object is removed before the stroke is made."

 

If they have a certificate from USGA or/and R&A then that makes it legal but mine didn't have one and couldn't find one on the website. They refer to Rule 4.

 

And even there look at the Clarification: When Use of Alignment Device Results in Breach for the full text.

I highlight the important part here:

"For example, a player’s ball comes to rest on the putting green and the player marks the spot of his or her ball with an “alignment device.” When doing so, the alignment device is placed to show the line of play. If the player then lifts and replaces his or her ball (which includes rotating it) so that a marking on the ball is lined up with the alignment device, the player is in breach of Rule 4.3a."

 

What is your opinion?

I’ve seen others ask them this question on Facebook and it is legal. Ball markers are covered in the rule book by “Equipment and Other Devices” under rule 6.7. Under the new rules governing a ball marker it cannot be over 2” in size which Trident isn’t, and as a result a ball marker is not classed as an alignment device. If it were over 2” it would be deemed illegal.

 

I’ve never seen any company show their letter of conformity from the USGA or include it with their product to be honest, I’ve had mine well over a year now and have had no issues using it at any club. It’s designed by a PGA pro so can’t imagine any pro knowingly breaching the rules or why would they still sell it?

 

All I know is that rule 4.3a is not applicable to this design from what I’ve read.

[steveMH]

I saw this product only a couple of weeks ago and bought one straight away. Having been a user of a line on the ball anyway I wasn't sure it would be that much better but it really is.

 

I think the biggest advantage comes on longer of heavy breaking putts where with the trident marks you get to line it up at a perfect right angle to the slope that the marker is sitting on. The line then tracks nicely along the slope / line.

 

I think it actually speeds up play as no re-adjustment of the line. I'm surprised it is legal but they 100% say it is so I'm going to use it!

 

I'd totally recommend this to anyone who has some struggles with alignment or even just confidence in their alignment - it is much better than just a sharpie line.