Willie,
I've heard it said here that golf began changing once relief was allowed. I think that started around 1754, while match was the only form of play.
I attend a golf event every year in Columbus, Ohio. It is hosted by a new member on this board, Dave Collard, and is now in its' 11th year.
On the Saturday we play the tournament round in the morning, then in the afternoon we play nine holes of Match Play Madness, Ohio vs The World. In the true spirit of the gemme, anyone can play for Ohio or the World as long as the numbers match.
Match Play Madness is a tribute to C.B. McDonald, in that the following Rules are observed:
1.There are no Rules
2. See #1
The ball is placed on the tee and that is the only time you may touch your ball - no relief from cartpaths, obstructions, whatever - you play the ball as it lies. Should your ball interfere with an opponent's or team members line on the green you are permitted to pick up the ball, but only on request, with two fingers, no cleaning permitted.
It is a great way to play the game, and we even exported it to Scotland, in 2004, when we played a UK team.