Can't retrieve ball

[SaintHacker]

I hit a shot deep into a thorny bush yesterday. I could see the ball, and I could see my marking on it so was 100% sure it was mine, however there was no way I could get it back without risking injury. Only playing a bounce game with a mate so I dropped another ball back along the line, but is that OK in a comp? Or do I have to somehow get the original ball out?

 

[guest100718]

you were fine. you don't need to actually get it. only be certain it's yours

 

[Blue in Munich]

Short answer, yes, long answer here;

http://www.randa.org/Rules-of-Golf/MainRules/28-Ball-Unplayable