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It has been well documented over the last year how a number of the worlds golfing authorities are blaming the modern equipment for, as they describe “making a mockery of the game, it’s making the game too easy.”
The modern golf ball itself is coming in for a considerable amount of criticism. It goes too straight, it flies too far. I am sure there are a number of weekend golfers reading this column that could argue against their claims.
These authorities are basing their judgement on the tour professionals they see driving the ball over 300 yards, not the mere mortals that make up the vast majority of the golfing population. These arguments raise an interesting question. Is it only the change in the equipment that is producing the results that we are now seeing?
The game and its equipment have very strict rules that have been in place for a number of years. Modern technology is taking those rules to the edge but not over it.
Yes, golf balls have changed over the years; today’s golf ball is more consistent than ever but it still satisfies the rules that were put in place all those years ago.
There is one other variable that is being overlooked by these authorities, and that is The Player. Years ago it was thought that a Tour Professional reached his prime around the mid thirties, we are now seeing that the worlds leading players are in their mid twenties and even younger. Todays professional player is much fitter and stronger than ever. There are specialist physiotherapists, biomechanics and dietitians available at each of the tournaments to help the players.
Another area that has been overlooked is instruction and coaching.
Todays golf instructors are Professional Instructors; all they do is teach, and as a result the quality of instruction available is so much better than ever before. The advent of the video camera has also enhanced the ability of the instructor and now more recently, the Digital Video enables the instructor to remain in touch with his players all over the world through the Internet.
At the end of the tournament, the best player that week is always going to win whether the players use a titanium driver and a new golf ball or a broomstick and an egg. If as a result of these changes, no matter whose argument is correct, the golfing public gets to see more exciting golf, then bring on the changes.
Chris Rutherford
Head Professional
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