Golf Rule: Brushing Sand in a Bunker During Backswing - Is It a Penalty?

Question
In a bunker player is using a four iron. On his take away - (back swing) he just brushes the sand. Is this a penalty??

Answer
Dear Bernard, thanks for the question.  Brushing the sand in that instance is not a penalty.  The intent of the rule in hazards is that you are not allowed to TEST the situation that you are in.  A backswing is part of the swing and therefore is not considered a means of testing.  All the best, thanks again, and remember...


Love the game,
skipper