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Rules question · Rule 18.3a · Expert

Can I still play a provisional ball after starting to search?

You have already been searching for your tee shot for a minute. The teeing area is close, and you want to go back and play a provisional ball. May you do so?

Answer

Yes, as long as the three-minute search time has not ended

You may play a provisional ball until the three-minute search time has ended. As always, you must announce it. If your original ball is found within the search time, you continue with it.

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