Linda,
A small crack has appeared in the face of my TaylorMade R7
driver. I have tried to fix it with super glue and it seems to be totally
sealed (tested the head by holding it underwater and saw no bubbles).
I need to use the driver tomorrow, and would like to post my
score for handicap purposes. Is it legal to play with the (hopefully) repaired
driver? I think the repair was successful and I doubt the playing
characteristics of the club have been changed.
Would it be legal (for handicap purposes) to play with the
crack UNrepaired? I broke it during a range session. I tried looking on the USGA
and R&A sites for the answer, but can't find a decision. Thanks for your
help.
Lou from Thailand
Readers, please scroll
to the bottom for the official response from the R&A.
Dear Lou,
Ordinarily I would consult the USGA to answer this question,
as I am not 100% certain of the answer. However, their offices are closed on
the weekend, so I will give you my opinion.
When the Rules talk about a club unfit for play, they refer
to a scratched club-head as being fit. The fact that there is no mention
of a cracked face leads me to suspect that such a club would be non-conforming.
When the face is cracked, the playing characteristics have changed.
If the face had cracked during
your round, you would be entitled to finish the round with the club [Rule
4-3a]. Your club was damaged before
the round, and I doubt that glue will restore the trampoline effects of a
titanium face.
Repair generally refers to a damaged or bent shaft, a
club-head that has become loose, or a loose grip. A cracked face cannot be
repaired. It is my opinion that you would not be permitted to begin your round
with your damaged, non-conforming driver.
Linda
Copyright © 2017 Linda Miller. All rights reserved.
Linda,
OK, thanks much for the rapid and detailed reply. I would
guess you are correct. I am hoping to hear from the R&A and/or USGA soon.
Cheers,
Lou
Lou, when you get your answer, please share it with me.
Thanks,
Linda
Linda,
The R&A got back to me on cracked driver face…CANNOT use for handicap round…crack in
face makes club non-conforming.
