A True Role Model

Brian Davis, who has never won a US PGA Tour event, sunk an 18 foot put on the 18th hole in order to force a playoff with Jim Furyk at the Verizon Heritage in South Carolina.

Davis soon found himself in trouble on the first playoff hole; on the beach, yards away from the green.  On his back swing, Davis hit a dried reed; which was indistinguishable except on slow-motion replay.  No one noticed, except Davis.

Davis immediately called the rule chief over.  It turns out that hitting the loose reed is a violation of Rule 13.4:

Except as provided in the Rules, before making a stroke at a ball that is in a hazard (whether a bunker or a water hazard) or that, having been lifted from a hazard, may be dropped or placed in the hazard, the player must not:

a. Test the condition of the hazard or any similar hazard;

b. Touch the ground in the hazard or water in the water hazard with his hand or a club; or

c. Touch or move a loose impediment lying in or touching the hazard.

Davis knew he had potentially violated a rule and called the violation on himself.  After a discussion and review of the swing, officials decided that Davis had indeed violated 13.4 and assigned a two stroke penalty; giving Furyk the victory.

This is a lesson for everyone.  Davis was accountable for his actions and called the penalty on himself, conceding the victory; not to mention the loss of potential winnings ($411,000 to be exact).

Davis' actions yesterday should be applauded by all.  This is the exemplification of honor and accountability.  Davis might have lost, but what he gained by bringing his infraction to the attention of event officials (when he could have easily dismissed his duty and no one would have notice) is invaluable.  I am now a fan of Davis and his example should be taught to all who will listen.