Golf Depends On Players

GOLF DEPENDS ON PLAYERS to be honest about enforcing the rules and penalizing themselves when needed. But as Paul Azinger learned, even unintentional violations can bring swift punishment.

On opening day of the 1981 Doral-Ryder Open, Azinger signed and turned in a scorecard reflecting a 3-under-par 69. But an observant fan watching on USA Network caught the golfer in a rule violation for removing loose impediments from the course.

The incident occurred on the 18th hole. While taking his stance for a wedge shot out of a shallow water hazard, Azinger kicked away several rocks. Golf rules call for a self-assessed, two-stroke penalty for the act. But without thinking, the PGA veteran naturally did it to set up his swing.

The television viewer from Colorado called PGA officials the following day to point out the violation. Tournament director Mike Shea reviewed the videotape. He agreed that Azinger broke Rule 13-4c. Under PGA guidelines, a scorecard indicating a score lower than actually tallied results in automatic disqualification.

After Azinger completed his second round—a 65, which left him one stroke behind the leader—officials informed him of their decision. He appealed by telephone to PGA commissioner Deane Beman, but golf’s top authority conceded that the rule had been breached.

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POINT No player or official on the course caught Paul Azinger’s error. The gallery didn’t notice either. But a fan many miles away carefully watched the broadcast. He knew the rules. He understood the honesty demanded in the game of golf. So he made the phone call. The highest officials of the sport considered the situation and disqualified Azinger.

As Christians, we know that God looks down on us. He always knows what we do. But we should also remember that no matter what we do or where we go, other people watch us too. They notice our actions. As representatives of Christ on earth, we need to watch our actions too.

GOAL! Think about a time you broke a rule. How did you respond? Would you have acted differently if someone had been watching? Ask God to help you remember that someone is always watching.