Proposed rule changes a victory for common sense

John McHenry says the proposed rule amendments to the golfing scene will be a set of very welcome changes.

Proposed rule changes a victory for common sense

Yesterday’s joint announcement by the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A) and the US Golf Association (USGA) of a period of consultation regarding proposed changes to the Rules of Golf - which they hope will come into effect from January 1st 2019 – is a victory for common sense as much as the realisation that something had to be done to simplify what is readily perceived as being an overly complicated sport.

In an era of change for the golf industry, most especially the declining membership and participation numbers in the more established golfing nations like the US and the UK, it seems that golf can no longer rely on its age old traditions “as a badge of honor” for survival, and just as Muirfield’s future status as an Open Championship course has forever been indelibly linked to their policy on female membership – it seems only fitting that the R&A and the USGA have now finally aquiesed to their most comprehensive overhaul of their rule book since they were first published in 1744.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Unlimited access. Half the price.

Annual €130 €65

Best value

Monthly €12€6 / month

More in this section

Sport

Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers. and reporters

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited