Lateral water hazard

[sawtooth]

At the back of our 11th green we have a water hazard that is marked with red stakes. Its a hazard that normally comes into play on the hole backing on to this hole (15th). Red stakes on that hole makes sense but on the 11th I cant see how you can use the 2 club length rule as any drop would make it go nearer the hole. Its impractical to go onto the other side of the hazard so cannot use the rule of going back on the imaginary line as far as you would like either.Luckily I managed to play the ball as it lied as the hazard was dry. However had it been wet the only option that I could have taken is to replay my shot from the bunker (and try not to thin it next time).When only 1 of the 3 options is possible should this really be a hazard at all playing the 11th?I think it really ought to have a drop zone instead. Thoughts?Will post a picture if it helps visualise what I mean.

 

[rulefan]

A picture would be useful but it does sound like a not uncommon problem. A lateral water hazard where none of the normal options (except S&D) can be used in practice.

The best way out is usually one or more optional dropping zones.

 

[duncan mackie]

I agree with rulefan, classic case for drop zone.

Don't understand your reference to 'should this even be a hazard playing the 11th?' - your 4th option is to play it as it lies even if it is in a designated hazard so the designation doesn't reduce you options per se.

 

[rulefan]

When only 1 of the 3 options is possible should this really be a hazard at all playing the 11th?

Regardless of the practically of using all the options, if it satisfies the definition of a water hazard, it is a water hazard. That cannot be changed.

 

[sawtooth]

Heres the hole in question.

If the hazard is wet (which it is for most of the year) then it plays like OOB. The only option is to go back and play it again from the bunker. A bit unfair I think.

 

[rulefan]

That is a prime candidate for a DZ.

But given that the DZ should not be nearer the hole, I'm not sure where you would put it. Probably near one or both of the bunkers.