Golf season headlined by Rules, Lefty

From the Executive Director

By Ed Gowan

Golf season headlined by Rules, Lefty

With the season now fully underway nationwide, and golf garnering quite a bit of attention, it’s worth a comment of two.

First, Google Eamon Lynch’s Golfweek essay of March 4 — “Whining about new rules is not a good look for PGA Tour players” — for a perspective held by many. Then take a few hints from our Rules article in this issue. Finally, enjoy Gary Van Sickle’s Out of Bounds column, also in this issue.

Back to Lynch’s Golfweek article (briefly). The author expresses a constant frustration held by the game’s administrators, that those players involved at the highest level care least about the game. They want it all going their way and, despite their millions, spend less time on the Rules than the average person does learning traffic laws. But, who knows? Maybe they’ve taken the hint from their boss, and have quit complaining, at least in public.

The Rules hints are just that … giving you a head start on understanding the game’s principles. We agree that much has changed, but most will agree that it’s easier to understand than at any time since the original 13 rules were written in 1744. Following on that thought, the Arizona Golf Association will host the USGA’s 80-question Rules qualifying test in our offices later in the month. Prep classes for those interested in improving their knowledge will precede the test. [It’s a great way to learn, all multiplechoice

questions and it’s another great opportunity for friendly wagers.]

Van Sickle’s take on Phil Mickelson’s Open prospects is insightful. All of us would enjoy seeing Phil win the trophy. If that were to happen, you and I both know it would not be “normal” in any sort of way. It would be replete with birdies, bogeys, wildly challenging successes interspersed with the occasional tragedy. If Phil is in the hunt, every other player would push his envelope to compete. Let’s hope for just this kind of championship with no better place for it than Pebble Beach. History has given us Watson’s chipin, Nicklaus’ 2-iron to a few inches, and many more like that. Please, Phil, no Winged Foot finishes this time.

Lastly as we move into our championship season, highlighted by the Amateur in late July at Superstition Mountain Country Club, I’m reminded how generous the golf community is in hosting everything from our championships to the myriad charity events that make our game so special. Add your own touch this year, and best wishes for an improving handicap and at least one more round than last year.

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