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A monthly column from the NYSGA’s Executive Director, Bill Moore

A month ago, the USGA released a proposed Model Local Rule (MLR) that gives “competition organizers the option to require use of golf balls that are tested under modified launch conditions to address the impact of hitting distance in golf.  The MLR is intended for use only in elite competitions and, if adopted, will have no impact on recreational golf.”

I disagree.

I am a proponent of limiting the golf ball and equipment to where it is today.  The golf ball goes plenty far enough for the elite golfer, and courses that hold Tour events and majors have already lengthened their facilities to accommodate the distances the best golfers in the world hit the ball.  I would wager that we have the technology in place to limit the ball and equipment from going significantly further.  

The main issue I have with creating and using a modified ball is where does it stop.  At first it will only be for elite competitions.  But what about those top amateurs that qualify for a US Open or US Amateur.  Do they have to play the modified ball in qualifying too?  If not, how will they quickly adjust to the new ball in time for the Championship proper?  Maybe some NCAA coaches get together and want to use the modified ball for their competitions to prepare their players for the next level.  Do we think about changing the ball for the state amateur when we play shorter golf courses?  What if clubs decide their course is too short and want to mandate the new ball for club competitions?

I realize that might be taking the argument too far.  However in my opinion this MLR will eventually impact the recreational golfer and that is a mistake.   

One of the great parts of our game is that we can all play with the exact same equipment.  Do elite golfers have access to some specialized equipment that would cost us average golfers a fortune?  Sure they do.  But we could get it.  Last week I watched the finals of the Drive, Chip, & Putt competition and most of them have better equipment than I do.

With regards to sustainability, if a course wants to spend money and resources to build new tees to challenge the small percentage of golfers that hit the ball very long distances, that’s their prerogative.   Personally, I would think their money would be better spent on improving turf conditions and building new forward tees to give more golfers the opportunity to enjoy themselves and bring more beginners into the game.  Let’s focus on that instead.

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Read last month's article: My Role on the Allied Golf Association Council