As you're making an attempt to strike the ball, the head of the club separates from the shaft on your backswing. You complete the swing but miss the ball. Did you make a stroke?

A. Yes, because a stroke is just the forward movement of the club.
B. No, because swinging with only a shaft does not conform to the rules regarding equipment.

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As you're making an attempt to strike the ball, the head of the club separates from the shaft on your backswing. You complete the swing but miss the ball. Did you make a stroke?

A. Yes, because a stroke is just the forward movement of the club.
B. No, because swinging with only a shaft does not conform to the rules regarding equipment.

Answer: B. A stroke is the forward movement of a club, but a shaft by itself is not considered a club. According to Rule 4-1a, clubs must conform to Appendix II regarding the form and make of clubs. Here, there is no penalty and you must play the ball as it lies, this time with a different club.