mostly but not entirely relating to allowed equipment. BIGGA Is the professional association in the United Kingdom dealing with all matters of golf management from a greens-keeper's viewpoint. For the U.S. equivalent, see GCSAA. Birdie A hole played in one stroke under par. Bisque A form of handicapping used in private match play games. The higher handicapped player is allowed to choose on which holes they receive their handicap allowance of "free shots". As this is a matter of negotiation between the players involved there are many variations in the number of shots allowed and when (before the start of the round, before playing a hole, during the play of a hole, after playing a hole) the claiming of "free shot" is allowed. Bisque matches are not recognized by the rules of golf. Bite Some players put a great deal of spin on their approach shots causing the ball to stop immediately when it hits the green. This phenomenon is referred to as biting or checking. Depending on the amount of backspin, the ball may stop advancing forward and roll back towards the player after landing. The amount of backspin imparted on the ball is greatly influenced by the ball material, quality of contact with the face of the club, and course conditions. Blade (i) A type of iron where the weight is distributed evenly across the back of the club-head as opposed to mainly around the perimeter (see cavity back).(ii) A type of putter with a striking face considerably wider than the distance from the face to the rear of the club-head. (iii) a shot struck "thinly" with the bottom of an iron striking high up on the golf ball, causing a low trajectory shot with a lack of control. Blast A bunker shot that sends the ball, and accompanying sand, (hopefully) onto the green. Also known as an explosion. Blind A shot that does not allow the golfer to see where the ball will land, such as onto an elevated green from below. Block A shot played severely to the right; Similar to the push. Bogey A hole played one stroke over par. A player whose handicap is in the range 20 to 24. Borrow See break. Bounce The measurement of the angle from the front edge of a club's sole to the point that rests on the ground when addressing the ball. In discussing wedges, bounce describes