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The 2010 USGA Groove Rule makes no sense. It is with respect for the USGA and a love for the game of golf that this is written. It is my sincere hope it is taken in that same spirit. In watching the press conference of Phil Mickelson before the 2010 Farmers held at Torrey Pines he expressed his displeasure toward the USGA Groove Rule in effect this year. As a recreational golfer I have to say I totally agree. This time the USGA has gone too far. They stepped over from being the governing authority on golf to being the golf police. Don't get me wrong I understand the "intent" of the USGA Groove Rule I just don't think it makes sense. Here is a paragraph from the USGA site regarding the why..... The main objective of Rules 4 and 5 and Appendices II and III is to ensure that technological advances in the design and manufacture of golf equipment are in the best interests of the game of golf. While not wishing to stifle innovation,the purpose of the equipment Rules is to protect the traditions of the game, to prevent an over-reliance on technological advances rather than on practice and skill,and to preserve skill differentials throughout the game. Let's look at that statement because it is a bit misleading. In order for the USGA to be correct, protecting the traditions of the game and preserving skill differentials are the same, and are in the best interest of the game. First the more important traditions to protect are honesty, integrity and sportsmanship, not skill differential. Technological advances don’t threaten the traditions. Over-reliance on technological advances rather than practice and skill can only be true if not everyone has access to the technology. As long as everyone has access, the technology gives no dramatic advantage to one player over another. I'm sure the worst Formula One race car driver would be better than any of us behind the wheel of the most technologically advanced race car. Skill, practice, and force of will always determine who prevails. The USGA has missed, entirely what is "in the best interest of the game of golf" and that is to................. GROW the GAME!!!!! Professional golf is not unlike professional auto racing. The technological advances, particularly in the area of safety, often find their way into the family sedan you drive every day. The technology used to improve professional’s success in golf increases all our success. When golf is easier to play, more people will play. The more people play the better for all. Expanding interest in golf... IS... in the best interest of golf. There are countries where golf is mostly private and those places produce almost no world class golfers. Contrast this with countries where golf is accessible, and these countries, for decades have produced champions. And will continue to do so. Most of us are grateful for shot stopping grooves ,else we would never be able to keep the 2 piece ball we play on the green. If the USGA Groove Rule is designed to put a premium on driving accuracy....grow the rough and narrow the fairways but don't take us back to hickory shafts.
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