Rules Guy: My ball won’t stop rolling when I place it. What now?

In response to a reader question, Golf's Rules Guy explains the procedure under the Rules of Golf when a ball held by a bunker rake will not stay at rest after the rake is removed. Because a rake is a movable obstruction, Rule 15.2 requires replacing the ball. If the ball rolls away after two attempts, Rule 14.2e dictates placing it at the nearest spot in the same course area not nearer the hole where it will remain at rest.

The column also addresses a scenario where wind blows a ball off the green while waiting on a ruling. The Rules Guy clarifies that under Rule 9.3, a ball moved by natural forces before being lifted or marked must be played from where it comes to rest. However, a player can avoid this risk by marking the ball first.