Man the rules committee really screwed this one up! It could have went either way but it sure has left a bad taste in the mouths of many at The Masters!
I think it's absolutely ridiculous that a tv viewer is allowed to call in the rules. The Masters rules officials reviewed it once, and deemed it ok, but then went back a second time because of some couch potato that saw some rule violation.
Both reviews were done because of a television viewer. I though it was a bit odd as well at first. But then they had their official Q&A and explained it saying every year viewers call in and they investigate each one. I was wondering what kind of can of worms it was going to open up in future events. I guess that's one of the happenings when the rules are the exact same from the amateur level all the way up to the pros. It was the TV interview where Tiger said he intentionally dropped a couple yards back to give him the yardage he needed that got it.
Also, something like this is much less likely to happen to the lesser known players as not all their shots are being televised like a Tiger Woods, Phil Michelson, ect.
I think the right decision was made (after hearing all the information). The committee reviewed it and decided he was good and there was no infraction. IF they did call him over after his round to review there is no doubt in my mind he would have adjusted the card and willing accept the 2 stroke penalty before signing. Also I don't think Tiger took advantage of the rule intentionally. He had a couple different rules he confused in his head while dropping after exploring his options. He kind of combined two rules at once. Should have known better.. yes. DQ? no. The penalty fit the crime so to speak. Especially given the circumstances. Would have been injust for the committee to tell him to sign his card he ok then hours later say oops my bad it wasn't ok pack your bags.
I agree that it is crap that tv viewers can call in. Half the players don't even get facetime on tv while tigers every step is watched coast to coast. Hope he wins inspite of the 15th hole mishap...
I wish they'd have come up with a graphic showing where he hit the first shot from, where he should have dropped it and where he could have dropped it had he chosen the line where his ball last crossed the hazard. Had he chosen the latter option e could have taken it all the way back to the tee without penalty, not sure where the difference would have been. Also, Furyk also his it in the water the same round there and opted not to use the drop area as well. Wonder where he dropped in relation to his divot.
Scott deserved it with that putt on 18 in regulation, but either were worthy of it today. Congrats to both
No big fireworks on Sunday..... but one hell of a ride. There is nothing like the Masters. Good for Adam Scott. I was hoping it would be Snedeker... but it wasn't meant to be. Adam was deserving to say the least. He's been through hell at times.
After looking forward to relaxing on the couch all weekend watching this it turned out my daughters had stuff going on all weekend and I didn't get to watch any of it other then highlights on the news. Man that sucked.
