Out of bounds—two words that can strike fear into the hearts of golfers everywhere. But what happens when the OB area is not just beyond the course boundaries but actually within it? Well, the PGA Tour has dropped a bombshell by introducing internal out-of-bounds areas at East Lake, the final station of the 2024 season. 

The decision left many golf enthusiasts scratching their heads. So, what exactly does internal out-of-bounds mean in golf?

Understanding the uncharted territory of internal out-of-bounds and its need

Imagine stepping up to the tee, feeling confident in your swing, and hitting a beautiful shot. But, to your surprise, your ball lands in an area that looks just like the rest of the course. Yet, it’s actually an internal OB area, and you’re faced with a penalty stroke. Simply put, they’re designated parts of the course that are considered out of bounds, even though they’re within the course boundaries.

For instance, a golfer playing one hole may find that a neighboring fairway or hole is considered internal out of bounds. And if your ball lands in one, you’ll need to take a penalty stroke and replay from the original position or a designated drop zone. These areas are marked with white stakes or lines, or perhaps a shallow rut etched into the ground.  

In some cases, internal out-of-bounds areas may only apply to one of the adjacent holes, often for safety reasons. Moreover, it discourages golfers from taking a risky line on a dogleg that could endanger others. It can be implemented based on unique course designs or environmental factors. These are the reasons some golf courses include internal out-of-bounds areas. 

As per R&A, “To maintain the character of a hole or to protect players on adjacent holes, the Committee may establish boundaries between two holes. If the internal boundary is not connected to other boundaries on the course, it is important to mark where the boundary starts and finishes.” Additionally, to the access where the designated area is located, information is outlined in the local rules section on the scorecard.

The rules provides golfers with clear guidance on how to navigate the areas on the course. That includes specific instructions on whether a ball is considered out of bounds if it lands on or over a road or other designated area. Now, as the PGA Tour heads to the TOUR Championship, golfers will need to be aware of the internal OB areas at East Lake to maximize their chances of success.

Navigating internal OB at the restored East Lake Golf Club

The course’s restoration has thrown a curveball at players. The new par-5 18th hole has been causing quite a stir. Even Scottie Scheffler admitted that it’s so tough that he considered taking a detour down the 10th hole to avoid it. But, the Tour has put waters on that plan. They introduced internal out-of-bounds on the 10th fairway for those playing the 18th. Moreover, on sixth too.

However, this isn’t the first time the tour has pulled this move. It happened during the 2021 Arnold Palmer Invitational, when Bryson DeChambeau’s monster drive at Bay Hill’s par-5 sixth went berserk. He said, “I have thought about sometimes on 18 going left into 9. “. Considering playing TPC Sawgrass’ 18th hole by driving the ninth fairway for the Players Championship. But for him, the PGA Tour quickly put a stop to that and made the ninth fairway out of bounds. 

Share your candid thoughts in the comments section on the unique concept of IOB.