Golf Rules: Raking Bunkers and Footprint Relief - Official Explanation

Question
are you now allowed to rake the bunker say if the rake is a long way from your ball and you want to rake your footprints to save time . has there been a rule change considering this

Answer
Diane,

Thanks for your patience. I've been dealing with Hurricane Ike and the aftermath here in Houston.

No you're not allowed to touch the sand with anything except your shoes prior to the downswing. If anything else touches the sand, this would be considered testing the sand and the player would incur a 2 shot penalty. This rule is in effect to help expedite play and make it fair to all.

Thanks for the question and make sure to have a rule book in your bag.

Michael Hoffman
PGA Professional