What Rule Got Juli Inkster Disqualified?

As perhaps further evidence that the Rules of Golf are more complicated than the self-contradictory Catholic Catechism, there is some confusion about the rule that got Juli Inkster disqualified on Saturday evening. The rule is 14-3.

Here's the text of itfrom the USGA.

14-3. Artificial Devices, Unusual Equipment and Unusual Use of Equipment
The United States Golf Association (USGA) reserves the right, at any time, to change the Rules relating to artificial devices, unusual equipment and the unusual use of equipment, and make or change the interpretations relating to these Rules.

A player in doubt as to whether use of an item would constitute a breach of Rule 14-3 should consult the USGA.

A manufacturer should submit to the USGA a sample of an item to be manufactured for a ruling as to whether its use during a stipulated round would cause a player to be in breach of Rule 14-3. The sample becomes the property of the USGA for reference purposes. If a manufacturer fails to submit a sample or, having submitted a sample, fails to await a ruling before manufacturing and/or marketing the item, the manufacturer assumes the risk of a ruling that use of the item would be contrary to the Rules.

Except as provided in the Rules, during a stipulated round the player must not use any artificial device or unusual equipment, or use any equipment in an unusual manner:

• a. That might assist him in making a stroke or in his play; or
• b. For the purpose of gauging or measuring distance or conditions that might affect his play; or
• c. That might assist him in gripping the club, except that:
  • (i) plain gloves may be worn;
  • (ii) resin, powder and drying or moisturizing agents may be used; and
  • (iii) a towel or handkerchief may be wrapped around the grip.

But, it wasn't that rule specifically. Rather, it's a decision by the USGA under Rule 14-3, which is decision 10 under rule 14-3.

14-3/10 Use of Training or Swing Aid During Round

Q. During a round, may a player make a stroke or a practice swing using a club with a weighted headcover or "donut" on it, or use any other device designed as a training or swing aid?

A. No. The player would be using an artificial device to assist him in his play in breach of Rule 14-3, but see also Decision 4-4a/7 for use of a weighted training club.