What do black stakes define when a player hits his ball into that area during a club championship?

Black stakes are used to define out-of-bounds areas on a golf course. When a player's ball lands in an area marked by black stakes, it indicates that the ball is out of bounds, and the player must return to the point where the last stroke was played and take a penalty stroke. This rule is an essential aspect of maintaining the integrity of the game and ensuring that players stay within the designated playing area of the course.

Immovable obstructions, which are typically marked differently (often by different colored stakes or signs), do not define the boundaries of the course and are instead objects like benches, cart paths, or sprinkler heads that do not move. Water hazards are indicated by different color stakes, usually yellow or red, and pertain to areas where water presents a specific challenge.

Thus, understanding the significance of black stakes is crucial for proper gameplay and adhering to the rules during club championships.