GOLFING THE SANDBELT: Playing Golf in Melbourne, Australia - An American's Perspective

THE SANDBELT: What and where is it?

The Sandbelt, for most golfers, especially in the US, means nothing.  Or, maybe it means an area in the Carolinas, around the Pinehurst area perhaps, that is known for golf and its sandy soil.  Yet, for the world-travelling golfer, it is the  “Utopia” of Australian golf.  It is a collection of eight of the finest courses and clubs in the country, and world, all within a half-hour of each other.  Imagine having Augusta National, Pebble Beach, Pinehurst, Pine Valley, Oakmont, The Country Club, Merion and Winged Foot all within thirty minutes of each other.  But in this case, they are Royal Melbourne, Kingston Heath, Victoria, Commonwealth, Huntingdale, Yarra Yarra, Metropolitan and Peninsula Kingswood.  Gary Player said it best when he said, “The Sandbelt … the greatest collection of golf courses in one spot on the entire planet.”

Melbourne is home to the Sandbelt.  It is located in the very southeastern-most part of Australia on the north end of Port Phillip Bay.  The city proper is located at the mouth of the Yarra River where it feeds into the Bay.  It is a gorgeous city filled with tree-lined streets, beautiful, large gardens, street cars, great shopping and better dining.

The name “Sandbelt” comes from the type of land.  Originally farm land, it is known for very sandy soil, a sand completely unique to those of us in the States.  It is from this land that these courses were built, with very little moving of land.  The courses were routed through the collection of trees and vegetation, and while, they are relatively flat, very simple and subtle in design yet devilishly, fiendishly difficult.  They will not beat you up, but they will challenge you like very few other courses.  Get off the grass and you’ll be dealing with the powder-like sand dotted with trees and native vegetation that will make you miss your nicely groomed rough and perfectly manicured bunkers at your home course.  

And the bunkers … oh yes, the bunkers.  The bunkers on many of the Sandbelt courses were designed by renowned golf course architect Alister MacKenzie (you might have heard of another one of his projects – Augusta National).  MacKenzie had a way with bunkers.  They just seem to be in the wrong place when you least need it. 

GOLFING THE SANDBELT: Planning is Critical

Once in Melbourne, you will start to feel the excitement.  The reason, or one of the reasons, you are in Melbourne is to play Sandbelt Golf.  Before you step on the courses, there are some things you should keep in mind.  A great place to start is the website SandbeltGolf.com.

Getting on the Courses

Schedule your starting times as early as possible.  This is almost the first thing you should do … maybe even before purchasing your airline tickets.  By doing your research, and contacting the courses you wish to play, you can reserve your starting times.  Courses are very welcoming to international visitors, but remember, you will not be the only person wanting to play these courses.  And, each course may have only a limited number of starting times each day for international players, and some days may be off limits or very restricted in order to accommodate member play.

When scheduling your time, be sure to inquire about any course maintenance that might be happening during the time you are there.  It can be frustrating to have to play on recently aerified greens or be able to play only one nine while the other has routine maintenance being performed.  Also, be aware of sunset times.  You don’t want to start so late that you are not able to finish your round.

It is likely that you will have to prepay your guest fees at the time of booking, and they can be rather steep.  Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath are in the A$350-400 range, and the others are comparable.  Be aware of the refund policy as well in the event something happens and you are unable to play.

Make sure you have the proper credentials prior to leaving the States; be sure to ask what is required at the time of booking.  Many of the courses expect you to be a member in good standing of a private club in America, and, as such, have a letter of introduction from the Club Secretary (General Manager).  If you are not a member of a club here, you should ask if a letter from your Club Professional, State or Regional Golf Association or some other organization will suffice.

Unless you have a full group of four, expect to be paired up with others.  This is a great opportunity to meet others, be they club members and native Melburnians or from another country.  This will add to your experience and create a lasting memory.

Dress Code

The website for each club will have the dress code.  Generally speaking, the dress at the Sandbelt courses will be similar to many of the nicer private clubs in America.  If you elect to go during the Australian summer (December – February), it can be very hot (100*F).  For men, appropriate (Bermuda) length shorts are permitted (be sure they are neatly pressed), but be careful of the socks.  Long socks are the custom in Australia, but short socks are acceptable … but not the “peds” or ankle socks that are common in America.  All shirts must have collars and be tucked in, and hats must be worn facing forward.  The women’s dress code will be comparable.  Be sure to be tactful – no striped shirts with patterned shorts.  Lastly, shoes with soft spikes or knobs are accepted.

Pace of Play

It is very important that you maintain your position on the course with the group in front of you.  The position of the group behind is irrelevant.  There is nothing to keep you from enjoying yourself as long as you are respectful of the people with you and behind you.  Yes, you may have paid a sizable green fee to play, but that doesn’t give you the right to dawdle.  You should walk with a purpose from shot to shot.  Be ready to play when it is your turn.  If you get paired with members from the course, be ready to play at their pace.  Taking photos is accepted, but you don’t need one of every shot.

Etiquette

Etiquette takes on many different forms.  Not only is etiquette your behavior on the course, but it includes items such as adherence to the dress code, (men) taking off your hat upon entering the clubhouse, not being too loud or obnoxious and the language you use … and cell phones.  Most clubs will prohibit the use of your cell phone on the course as a telecommunications device (the camera is okay).  But, unless you get a sim card that can make your phone able to be used in Australia or internationally, your smartphone may not be so smart.  Remember, you are a guest at the club.  Just because you paid a sizable amount for the guest fee, lunch or beverages does not give you carte blanche to do as you please.

Walking/Golf Carts

Virtually all of these courses expect you to walk.  Only individuals with conditions that do not allow them to walk the course will be given the opportunity to use a golf cart.  If this is you, you should notify the club of your condition at the time you make your reservation.  It could require you to have something in writing from your doctor stating this fact.  Carts are limited and may not be available otherwise.

Some courses will have caddies available depending upon day and time.  If you desire to use a local caddie, please include that when making your reservation.  Not all clubs will have caddies, nor will caddies always be available at your time if you do not plan in advance.  Also, check to see about the caddie fee, if it is required to pay in cash and the tipping policy.  It is far better to be aware of this prior to arrival so as to avoid any embarrassing situations.

Lastly, most clubs will have push/pull carts available for your use.  This is far better than carrying your own bag, especially if you brought a larger bag to protect your clubs in the luggage compartment.

Distances

Remember, distances are in “metres” and not yards.  A metre is approximately 10% more than a yard, so plan accordingly.  If you remembered to pack your range finder, you will be able to get your yardage; otherwise, brush up on your math skills.  A slight miscalculation will leave you in a bunker short of the green.  Also, check to see about how the distances are measured.  In some cases, the distance is measured to the front of the green rather than to the middle as it is in the States.  This, too, will leave you chipping or pitching and scrambling to save par rather than having a makable birdie putt.

Getting Adjusted to the Sandbelt Conditions

If you are serious about playing well in the few rounds you will play, you might want to go to one of the local public courses in advance in order to become adjusted to Sandbelt golf.  There are a number of public courses in the area, so finding a place to play should not be much of a problem.  Here are two that I would recommend.

Cheltenham Golf Club

Adjacent to Victoria Golf Club is Cheltenham Golf Club.  Cheltenham is a nine hole, semi-private course playing to 2,755 meters (3,000 yards), par 35.  But don’t let this fool you.  The course is very sporty and very tight.  The fairways are narrow and the trees made it even more so.  The greens are small and far from flat.  As is often the case with the first round in any new environment, you will spend much of the time getting acquainted with putting on different grass, learning to convert distances, playing out of bunkers with a totally different type of sand and experiencing which trees will allow balls to pass through and which ones will not (unfortunately, many don’t … just like here in America). 

One of the unique requirements at Cheltenham is the one to carry a bucket of sand with you so you can fill your divots.  You pick these up at the first tee, but the real challenge is to keep from losing it somewhere on the course.

And, at the conclusion of your round is the traditional end to any round no matter where you play – a pitcher of cold beer.

Sandringham Golf Club

Across the street from Royal Melbourne Golf Club is Sandringham Golf Course.  A tight course with many dogleg holes, Sandringham will help get you prepared.  It is a par 70, 5,646 metres for the men and 4,929 metres for the women (about 6,200 and 5,400 yards, respectively) layout that is regarded as one of the more challenging public courses in Melbourne.  

One of the most interesting facts regarding Sandringham is its history.  The current back nine was part of the original Royal Melbourne.  After Royal Melbourne moved across the road, the City of Sandringham purchased the land and expanded the course to 18 holes.  But if you don’t have the time to play, it has a driving range where you can get the rust off.  Another fun fact about Sandringham is that it serves as the parking lot when major events are being held at Royal Melbourne.

Next week: Huntingdale Golf Club

GOLFING THE SANDBELT: Playing Golf in Melbourne, Australia - An American's Perspective

I never thought it would come to pass.  What was a dream many years ago came to fruition recently when I traveled to Melbourne, Australia, for vacation and to play some of the world’s best golf courses.  My wife’s birthplace was only a place I had heard about in many of her stories and seen when watching the Australian Open tennis tournament and the many Australian golf events hosted in Melbourne.  I knew the sites very well – the Yarra River, Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne Cricket Grounds (MCG) among others.  Yet, it required I stay up late due to the time difference. But, if you live in the Northern Tundra of Minnesota, watching anything coming from Australia in November or January yielded the comfort knowing that at least part of the world was experiencing warm (even hot), sunny weather.

When we made the decision to go to Australia (thanks to a close friend getting married in the Philippines), immediately my mind went to playing the courses I had come to know – Royal Melbourne, Kingston Heath, Victoria, Huntingdale, Metropolitan, etc.  But, how could I accomplish the feat of getting on these renowned courses?  As a PGA of America Master Professional, of course I would be welcomed, right?  As the son-in-law of a longtime bookkeeper at Kingston Heath, of course I would be welcomed, right?  As the friend of a current executive with Golf Australia, of course I would be welcomed, right?  Not so fast, I discovered.  Playing these courses required significant planning, and I am not just talking about the golf side of things. 

Over the next five weeks, I will be sharing the things you need to know if you plan on travelling “Down Under” for a golf holiday on the Sandbelt courses, as well as information about some of the iconic courses themselves, including Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath.

Getting to Australia

Of course, from the States, getting to Australia is not that difficult.  Qantas, American and United offer flights from many different airports, including LAX, DFW and SFO, directly to Australia on a regular schedule.  However, if you are going directly to Melbourne to start your adventure, then a layover in Sydney may be part of the itinerary.  If you transfer in Sydney, you will go through customs there.  Make sure you leave yourself at least two hours before your flight to Melbourne departs.  Qantas and Virgin Australia offer flights between Sydney and Melbourne hourly.

The cost will be a factor but can be manageable if you plan accordingly.  Airlines like Qantas and Air New Zealand will offer fare specials on flights from major cities (LAX, SFO, DFW, NYC) at different times of the year.  You should plan accordingly and well in advance.  But remember, these are from the departure points, so you will have to build in the additional fare to get there, and it could be significant.  Also, if you want to make any stopovers or go to other places in Australia, it might be cheaper to buy those tickets separately.

In our case, we needed to stop in the Philippines for the wedding.  Flying from MSP, we could have gone directly to Australia, with a stopover in Manila coming back.  As a result, the cost would have been over $5,000 each.  However, we booked tickets to Manila and then separate tickets from Manila to Australia.  Doing so saved us over $3,000 per person.

Travel Time & Time On-Board

There are many philosophies regarding overseas travel.  Even if you go “direct” to Melbourne, the entire trip likely will take over 24 hours (especially if you have to connect through one of the departure points in the US) from the time you leave your home in the States to the time you arrive at your “home” in Australia.  If you are not familiar with long travel, it can be an exhausting, frustrating and challenging experience.  Go into it with a sense of adventure, don’t take the little inconveniences seriously, and you will be better in the long run.

How we handle the experience from a physical standpoint varies from one to another.  Unfortunately, so much is dictated by our own bodies.  The single best tip I can give you is common sense … make sure you are drinking plenty of water.

The second best tip is to get as much sleep as possible, but that is easier said than done.  Some sleep really well on a plane; others not at all.  The excitement alone will make it difficult for some to sleep.  While you are awake, you will not be bored.  In addition to any reading material you bring, there are many options for on-board entertainment, from “online” poker against other passengers to a plethora of movies (current and past blockbusters) to our favorite television shows to music.  You will be served at least two full meals and a snack.  (If you have special dietary needs, you are able to order those up to a day or two before departure.)  And, depending upon the airline, you will get a varying amount of free alcoholic drinks – but alcohol can be a stimulant and inhibit your ability to sleep.

And, of course, there is the issue of space.  Depending upon the type of aircraft, you may have a middle seat near a window, or in the middle of the fuselage where you have to get past two or three people to get out to use the bathroom.  Plan accordingly when booking your trip to make sure you reserve the seat you want.  You are going to be in it for a long time.  But, if you follow the first tip (drink plenty of water), you’ll want to be near the bathroom for easy access ... and remember to use it when there are no lines.

Time Change

This is not an issue to take lightly.  It is tough on the body for anyone making the trip, and the older one is, the more difficult it will be. With our typical busy schedules, there is nothing one can, or will, do to adequately prepare for the time change of 16-17 hours.  If possible, try to get on the Australian clock a day or two before leaving.

Length of Trip

If you are considering an Australian “holiday,” two weeks is the minimum you should give yourself for the trip.  Any less and you will not be able to enjoy everything to its fullest ... and you will be wasting your investment of time and money.  That is especially true for the golfer.  You will want to be as sharp as possible so you can play your best and be able to enjoy the spectacular opportunity before you.  It will take you take at least two days in travel going over, and (effectively) two returning.  While you may return on the same day you leave (according to the calendar), you will not feel like doing much the first day or two back in the States. 

Weather

Remember, Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere, so the Australian summer is our winter.  The best time to go for golf is November–April.  You will encounter nearly perfect weather most of the time with infrequent rain, but it can be hot … very hot (100*F).  You should pack accordingly, but make sure you are aware of the dress codes for the courses you will be playing.  And don’t forget the sunscreen!

Luggage Restriction

When traveling to/from the United States, air carriers will allow each person traveling on a coach class ticket two pieces of checked luggage of 50 pounds or less.  Go over that amount, and the additional fees are significant.  This is very important when you are considering the airlines you will be flying.  Try to stay within the “airline partners,” such as American and Qantas or Delta and Virgin Australia.  If you don’t, or are flying on different tickets, then you can get caught with different restrictions. 

For example, the Qantas luggage restrictions for tickets not originating in the United States are significantly lower per person – 66 pounds (30 kg) per person as opposed to 100 pounds.  If you are packing for a three or four-week trip, and include your golf clubs, you will get to 66 pounds very quickly.  If you make this mistake, you will find yourself paying dearly for the overage or pulling out items you don’t want and giving them away at the airport.  The other option is to upgrade to “Business Class” and enjoy the added luggage, additional leg room in better and less crowded seats.  Of course, that is significantly more expensive.

Next Week - Getting on the Courses

Jason Day -- Friend or Foe?

As though my challenge as a Director of Rules and Competitions to keep my players moving around the course in a timely manner isn't hard enough, I now have Jason Day serving as the poster person for being deliberate as professed in this article - http://www.pga.com/news/pga-tour/pace-play-pga-tour-question-no-easy-answers.

In short, it seems that he has blamed his poor start last year to his not being as deliberate, and that was why he played better the second half - he was more deliberate.  And, since this is his "job," he should have the right to take as much time as necessary.  He states, "In my opinion, I don't care so much about speeding up the game. I've got to get back to what makes me good.  If that means I have to back off five times, then I'm going to back off five times before I have to actually hit the shot."  Great!  Thanks Jason!

So, I'm guessing it couldn't be that he simply wasn't playing as well or putting as well.  Of course not, it cannot be the player's fault.  It must have been the fact that he had to play under the very restrictive pace of play policies that got him.  He's a champion and star player, so he gets the prime starting times and, as a result, gets stuck in the middle of the field where it's naturally slower, but he was still not deliberate enough and played poorly.  Hmm.....

Using that analogy, the Cowboys or Patriots would have gone undefeated this year had it not been because they were forced to go by the 45 second play clock.  Some pitchers surely would win 5-6 more games in a year if they could take longer time between pitches.  Who cares that baseball games routinely take three plus hours to complete?  And who cares that Jason and some of his TOUR buddies take close to five hours to complete a round?  

Actually, Jason, many do.  Just ask people who watch golf and play golf.  The commentators at this year's World Cup from Australia were very critical of the pace of the Chinese players, and rightfully so.  At one point, they were nearly three holes behind.

Also, Jason, do you care about your fellow competitors who like to play faster?  Shouldn't they have the same right to play at their preferred pace?  Are they not playing for the same money you are?  Obviously you don't care.  What if one decides he needs to take six hours to play?  Will that bother you?  In that case, probably so.

I have an idea, let's put all of the fast players at the front of the field and slow players (you know who you are) at the back - every round.  Maybe those at the back won't finish some rounds due to darkness.  They'll have to come back early the next morning to finish.  Plus, television won't be there to see them finish, and they'll miss out sharing their sponsor's names to the world.  I wonder if the sponsors (Nike, TaylorMade) will like that idea?

Better yet, if a group gets out of position, that group should be forced to "pull over" and let the following group play through.  That should give Jason plenty of time to visualize his next shot.  I expect after having to let a few groups play through during a round, Jason will get the message and speed up.  (NOTE:  As defined, a group is out of position when it has an entire par 3 or par 4 hole open, or if the group in front is on the putting green of a par 5 hole when it arrives at the teeing ground.  Notice the position of the group behind is not relevant)

Day does make the valid point that the courses they play are set up to be difficult - quick greens, difficult hole locations, longer rough and they have to hole out each hole - but these are the best players in the world.  And, they spend hours hitting thousands of balls to practice their craft.  One would think that they can practice the pre-shot routine enough so that it can be done in 30 seconds.  In the NBA, a team would have turned the ball over by then.  

Lastly, keep in mind, the pace expected by the TOUR is not unreasonable.  It is not making them play as though they are in a West-Coast, run and gun offense where shots are rattled off every ten seconds. The Rules Committee creates a pace that is realistic given the course conditions, weather conditions, time it takes to walk the course, etc.   The standard pace for a group of three is going to be (roughly) 4:40-4:45, potentially longer.

I wish the TOUR would make a statement by creating tougher penalties, but that's a lost cause ... the TOUR is the players.  Kind of like expecting Congress to sanction itself, but at least we get the opportunity to vote them out of office. 

If we all make the effort to walk with purpose to our ball, start our pre-shot routine before it's our turn to play, be ready to play when it is our turn and continuous putt once the ball is inside 3-4 feet, we can reduce the time it takes to play, enjoy the round and (often) play better.  NOTE:  If you play using a cart that is restricted to the path, make sure you take 3-4 clubs with you to play your next shot ... and don't wait until your cart partner has played before going to your ball (unless, of course, you will be in interfering with their shot).

Cheers-
Doug

Happy 2017!

Happy 2017!

The calendar has turned another year, and we wait in anticipation to what lies ahead.  There will be many changes this year, and that's not even considering the political landscape.  (Since this is a golf-based blog, I won't touch those.)  

The new TOUR season begins this week at Kapalua.  Will Jason maintain his dominance ... in Nike clothing?  Will Tiger win again?  Will it be a major?  Will DJ win another major or two?  Will Jordan maintain his form after winning the Aussie Open?  What previously unheard of rookie will become a household name?

As I was looking through social media (Twitter, in this case), I found this article - "Should Golfers Push, Pull or Carry Their Clubs?".   I wish I had seen and known this information when I was a junior golfer lugging my Jones carry-bag on my shoulder!  Maybe I wouldn't have been suffering from back issues since I was 21.  My Johnny Miller-esque swing with the "reverse C" finish probably didn't help either. 

Oh well, no looking back, let's keep facing forward and make the most of what we have.  All the best for a great '17 on (and off) the course!

See you on the course!
Doug

Thursday, December 22, 2016

After being "off-line" for over three years, I am back.  Life and work (often one and the same) got in the way of my posting, and then I simply forgot about it.  But, I have just finished my 19th season with the MGA; hard to believe I've been here that long.  So, as the 20th is about to begin, I feel it's time to renew sharing my passion.

In looking back at previous posts, almost four years ago to the day I posted about the USGA's announced ban on the anchored stroke.  If you followed the news about the proposed ban, you would have thought the golf world was going to end on Jan 1, 2016. Guess what?  It didn't.  I think three years of discussion prepared people for what turned out to be nothing much.  Yes, a few still get close to anchoring.  Bernhard Langer has figured out how to keep his hands just far enough off of his chest to fulfill the requirements and still be a (the?) dominant player on the PGA TOUR Champions Tour.  Kuchar still putts with the handle resting against his forearm - below his elbow.  And Adam Scott has found a stroke with which he can win (WGC Cadillac Invitational).

In the MGA and USGA events I conducted in 2016, never once did I answer or deal with an anchoring question.  I received a few questions in the beginning of the year via phone calls or emails, but by the time the season rolled around, it was a non-issue.

The biggest controversy for 2016 centered around the DJ ruling at the US Open -- did he or didn't he cause the ball to move?  The referee in his group said no.  The USGA overruled their man and said yes.  But the real issue was the delayed notification, leaving DJ to play a few holes not knowing if he would be penalized, and those chasing him wondering if they were one stroke closer.  Despite being assessed the penalty, DJ made it a non-issue in the end by running away from the field, claiming (finally) his first major.  The issue, however, was not dead.

I believe the referee with DJ was incorrect in his ruling.  The rule was to be applied by looking to see if anything could have caused the ball to move, most specifically wind, water or gravity.  If so, then there is no penalty and the ball is played where it came to rest.  However, without virtual certainty that one of those factors caused the ball to move, then the player (DJ) would be "deemed" to have caused it to move.  After looking at the tape, the USGA ruled that the ball moved immediately after DJ placed his putter next to the ball, thereby ruling that he caused it to move.

In the fall, the USGA and R&A announced a new "Local Rule" that would prevent another DJ incident.  The Committee (the group in charge of the event) may adopt the new local rule that exonerates the player from penalty if he "accidentally" causes his ball to move when it lies on the putting green.  Gone from penalty is dropping your ball-marker, towel or putter on the ball.  Gone from penalty is inadvertently kicking the ball as you come up to mark it. Gone from penalty is inadvertently bumping the ball as you place your club behind it during the address procedure.  As long as it's on the putting green, no worries.  Unless, of course, what you did wasn't accidental, such as forgetting to mark the ball prior to lifting it or rotating it after you have lifted your marker to align that line you put on the ball.  Click HERE to view the Infographic that visually explains the new local rule.  To see complete information on the USGA website about the change, click HERE.

Personally, I think they went too far and would have liked a slightly different change.  I think the answer was to go to the player and ask, "Did you do anything to cause the ball to move?"  If the player says no, then no penalty would be assessed with the understanding that the Committee would go back to instant replay (for those that have it) and look at the tape.  If it is obvious the player truly hasn't done anything to cause the ball to move (rather than looking to see if anything else caused it to move), then there is no penalty.  But, if it shows the player bumping the ball with the club (for example), then a one-stroke penalty is assessed.  But ........... they didn't ask me, so all I have to do is to officiate what is written.  The MGA is following the lead of the USGA and R&A and adopting the local rule for play.  

Time has come to close this post.  Here's wishing you a blessed and joyous Holiday season.

See you in 2017!

Doug

Tigergate - By the Rules

This past Saturday morning, the worlds of golf and sport came to a collective standstill as the Rules Committee at the Masters decided the fate of Tiger Woods.  Would they?  Could they?  Did they dare disqualify him for violating a Rule that resulted in his signing an incorrect score card? 

There was a media frenzy with everyone having an opinion.  Social media was alive with theories.  Even the participants in the Rules Workshop I was conducting were buzzing with a renewed interest despite having to spend “Moving Day” in a hotel meeting room learning about the Rules.

It took Fred Ridley, Chair of the Committee, a considerable length of time to make a public statement after it had been announced Tiger was not disqualified but would be assessed a two-stroke penalty for having played from a wrong place when taking relief under Rule 26-1a the previous day.  After he spoke, it left many, including PGA Tour pro Ernie Els, Golf Channel analyst Brandel Chamblee and two-time Masters champion and CBS analyst Nick Faldo, wondering how and why Tiger had not been disqualified.  Some, including Faldo and Chamblee, suggested Tiger should “man up” and withdraw to save the tournament and the game from public humiliation.  Others believe in a conspiracy theory – a behind the scenes agreement between the Masters, CBS Sports and Tiger.  Of course, some still believe LBJ had something to do with JFK’s assassination.

Yet, in the aftermath of the public outcry, once the facts were presented and studied came the realization that the ruling was correct.  Well, some have come to that point … others are still not convinced.  Allow me to revisit the facts to show the ruling is correct.  But, before I do, I will make two assertions:

#1:  I cannot explain how or why Tiger lost focus when taking relief.  He is known to be one of the more knowledgeable players when it comes to the Rules.  However, after many other well documented gaffes by his peers, and the bungled attempt by David Feherty to explain Tiger’s options, it goes to show that mistakes can be made.

#2:  I believe the Committee made an error in not speaking with Tiger in the Scoring Area when it had the opportunity Friday afternoon.  We will never know the reason for this.  Mr. Ridley said, after reviewing the tape, the Committee did not believe there was a breach.  Using 20/20 hindsight most will come to a different conclusion.

There is no doubt Tiger dropped and played from a wrong place; even Tiger admitted to that.  Rule 26-1 allows the player to drop under “stroke and distance” as one of the options.  When a player elects to make his next stroke from where a previous stroke was made, Rule 26-1a specifically states the players must drop “as nearly as possible” to the spot from which the original ball was last played.  This means where the ball must first strike the course – not necessarily where it ends up after the drop.  PGA Rules instructor Ed Hoard used to teach that “as nearly as possible” meant approximately 6”.  The penalty under Rule 26 for this breach is two strokes.

Someone happened to notice the possible issue, so they alerted the Committee, which in turn began its investigation.  While Tiger was playing the 18^th hole, the Committee reached the conclusion that there had not been a breach.  Therefore, it elected not to speak to Tiger about it in the Scoring Area.  This is critical.  By dealing with the question and reaching its decision, the Committee had, in essence, made a ruling – despite the fact the player didn’t even know.

After Tiger made his infamous comments during the interview later, the Committee took notice and elected to revisit the question.  It asked Tiger to meet them Saturday morning in order to ask questions.  During this interview, it was stated Tiger admitted to dropping in a wrong place mistakenly.  (While he may have said he “intentionally” dropped two yards away, he was mistaken with his ability to do so.)  Thus, Tiger had signed his card with a score of 6 for the 15^th hole, when it should have been an 8, a breach of Rule 6-6d that carries with it a penalty of disqualification.

However, the Committee had ruled on the issue the day before and had not elected to speak with Tiger in the Scoring Area.  While the Committee is not on record for using it, we can look to Decision 34-3/1.5 – “Committee Error and Scoring in Stroke Play” for guidance on such an issue.  Some key concepts in this Decision are as follows:

1.      “The player is entitled to act on such information in his subsequent play.”  This means, the player may proceed based on information the Committee gives him, even if incorrect.  In Tiger’s case, to sign the score card believing it is correct.

2.      “When a referee (Committee) makes a specific ruling that is contrary to the Rules in a specific situation, the player should be exempt from penalty.”  Tiger is exempt from the disqualification penalty for signing an incorrect card.

3.      “In these situations, the Committee should resolve the matter in whatever manner it considers most equitable, in light of all the facts and with the objective of ensuring that no player receives an undue advantage or disadvantage.”  By assessing Tiger the two stroke penalty for having played from the wrong place, it restored things to the way they should have been if they had discussed the issue with Tiger in Scoring.

Finally, Fred Ridley referred to Rule 33-7.  This is the Rule that permits the Committee to “waive, modify or impose” a penalty of disqualification in exceptional circumstances.  It is this Rule that allowed the Masters Committee to waive the disqualification penalty for Tiger.  (Reference had been made by the media to Decision 33-7/4.5 erroneously.  That decision is not relevant.)

 In my opinion, not only did Mr. Ridley and the Committee get the ruling correct, they took the more difficult option.  It would have been easy, and popular in the eyes of many, to disqualify Tiger, but he would have had every right to be angry at such an action.

By assessing Tiger the two stroke penalty and allowing him to play, despite the firestorm of negative publicity and the accusations of preferential treatment, the Committee upheld the Rules of Golf.

The following is a post from the USGA website regarding the cancellation of play at this weekend's Hyundai Tournament of Champions.  I think it is interesting as it focuses on why the scores were wiped out twice.

Wind Causes Cancellation Of Play

By John Van Der Borght, Manager, Rules Communications

Can you explain why first-round scores were nullified when play was postponed due to high winds at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions in Maui?

Weather conditions frequently interrupt play at golf tournaments, but this past weekend saw extreme weather conditions cause the PGA Tour to not only suspend play, but to cancel the play that had already occurred. This happened not once, but twice over the first three days of the Hyundai Tournament of Champions at the Kapalua Resort’s Plantation course.

On Friday, the first groups teed off in high winds and rain. As they worked their way around the golf course, the winds continued to pick up. Golf balls were being blown across the greens and by the time the first group reached the ninth hole, the conditions were such that the PGA Tour Rules Committee decided that play needed to be suspended. Shortly after that, they reached the difficult decision to cancel all the play for the day and nullify the results to that point.

Rule 33-2d (The Committee – Course Unplayable) says that if the Committee considers that for any reason the course is not in a playable condition or that there are circumstances that render the proper playing of the game impossible, it may, in match play or stroke play, order a temporary suspension of play. It further gives the Committee, in stroke play only, the power to declare all play null and void and cancel all scores for the round in question. This is what the Committee chose to do.

Decision 33-2d/1 contains guidelines on whether to cancel a round. There is no hard and fast rule and the decision is left to the judgment of the Committee. The example given in this Decision is exactly what happened at Kapalua. It states “… if some competitors begin a round under extremely adverse weather conditions, conditions subsequently worsen and further play that day is impossible, it would be unfair to the competitors who started not to cancel the round.”

Had the first round been continued the next day in substantially better conditions the player who had played eight holes in almost impossible conditions would have been at a severe disadvantage over those who hadn’t started their rounds.

Unfortunately for the PGA Tour and the players, Saturday’s conditions were no better and play was never started. They tried for a third day on Sunday, but once again the winds became so severe that play was quickly suspended and again the first-round scores were nullified. The PGA Tour hoped to commence the first round on Monday, attempting to play 36 holes and possibly conclude the 54-hole tournament on Tuesday.

As Rule 33-2d states, play can never be canceled in match play. This is one example of the differences between match play and stroke play. Since the two sides in a match are playing in equally poor conditions, no player can be considered to have been placed at an unfair disadvantage versus his opponent.

To Ban or Not to Ban...

After not "going public" for an entire week after the announcement, I have decided to share my opinions on the proposed ban on an "anchored" stroke.  Here are my comments I posted to a Golfweek.com page.

As a PGA member for nearly 27 years, a Master Professional certified in Rules and Tournament Operations and the tournament director for a state association, I have an interest in all facets of this ruling. Originally, I was not in favor of a ban as there was no evidence to suggest anchoring generated better results. However, after hearing the case presented by the R&A and USGA, I have come to a different conclusion and support the ban for the following reasons.

1. I do see this as "preventative." Yes, it has been going on for decades, but it was only those players who had the yips or bad backs that used the long putters. However, we are now seeing players of all ages and abilities use the method. And, we are seeing it being used for strokes with other clubs from off the putting green. If left unchecked, where will it end? As Achenbach stated in this article, golfers are an ingenious bunch.

2. Why now and not 30 years ago? Like I said above, I don't believe anyone ever imagined this becoming what it has become. If the Rules of Golf committees for the R&A and USGA could have seen this 30 years ago, I have a hard time believing they would have allowed it. Just because it has been going on, doesn't mean it shouldn't be stopped. After all, if a person has been smoking for 30 years, it doesn't mean they shouldn't stop once it is obvious it is not in their best interest.

3. Like it or not, golfers, while generally playing by the Rules, ultimately play by the Rules they wish to adopt within their normal group. I'm talking about casual, recreational golf here; not high-level competitions (club championships, Member-Guests, state championships, etc). Does everyone putt out in their normal group? Do people play "winter rules"? Do people carry more than 14 clubs? Do courses play wooded areas as lateral water hazards when the closest water is 60 feet straight down? Of course. And, this ban will not change that at all. I see people continuing to use this method within their groups once it takes effect. I can tell you many other rules are not followed because players don't make the effort or take the time to learn them. Thus, I don't see it making a significant impact on participation.

4. As Mike Davis (USGA) stated on the Golf Channel, we have been playing this game for centuries and putting this way for only the last 30 years. The growth of the game back in the 80s and early 90s was not due to anchored putting. The growth of the game worldwide (excluding the UK and USA) is not as a result of anchored putting. There are far bigger problems with growing the game - cost and time to name just two.

5. To address Mark's comments, "Tee It Forward" is a program that encourages golfers (men) to put their egos aside and play from the set of tees that best fits their ability level rather than feeling they have to play from the "Regular" or "Championship" tees. The typical male player with an 18 handicap (average in the US), plays a course from 6300-6700 yards. If everyone enjoys shooting better scores, then moving up and playing from 5900-6200 yards would allow them to shoot better scores and have more enjoyment. Yet, we men let our egos get in the way. "Tee It Forward" simply tells us that it is okay to play a shorter course.

6. For Scott, as for the actual "proposed" rule (although, I do agree with Achenbach that it is a "done deal"), the putter touching the shirt, sweater or jacket is not a problem. The issue is whether the putter (club) is anchored, eliminating a full freedom of motion of the entire club. Even Kuchar's method (which was specifically approved) of resting it against his forearm has the entire club moving during the stroke. The information provided at www.usga.org/anchoring is very good - videos, graphic depictions, etc. Thus, I don't believe anchoring is difficult to define.

7. While the subject has not come up here, I do not believe "bifurcation" is a solution. There is no other sports stage of which I can think where amateurs compete equally against professionals at the highest level. Yet, I would also refer back to #3 above. So to say we need two sets of rules does not solve anything.

8. Lastly, it doesn't appear anyone is arguing the point that an anchored stroke is consistent with the way the game has been and should be played. Like Tiger said, he makes a swing with 13 clubs, why shouldn't we require a swing with the 14th club?

Obviously, these are just my opinions. However, I believe I have a large stake (larger than most) in this industry from many sides. Does that make me right? No, but it is a perspective from an insider.

Please let me know your comments.  I would love to hear what you have to say.

Until next time-
Doug

Tuesday, Oct 16 -- Fergus Falls, MN
Today was a glorious day - sunny and low 70s!  Perfect day to play two rounds of golf!

The first was at Thumper Pond Golf Resort in Ottertail. The picture is from behind the 18th green.  The 18th fairway is to the right with the 9th fairway to the left.

Cut out of a pine forest, Thumper Pond is a very playable yet challenging course.  They are constantly looking to make it more "friendly" for the higher handicap player but it will offer a good test for players trying to qualify for the MGA Amateur Championship in 2013.  The condition was good despite being one week from closing, and since it's pine trees, we didn't have to contend with the multitude of leaves.

Many thanks to PGA Professional and host Dave Sadlowsky for his gracious hospitality!

My next stop was to Balmoral Golf Course in Battle Lake.  Built in 1961, the course offers a quaint, comfortable feel.  Nestled amongst thousands of trees, the course winds its way through the gently rolling land.  PGA Professional and owner John Young joined me as we went around, walking most of the way.  It was an easy course to walk.  Unfortunately, most of the leaves had left the trees so not only did I miss seeing the course in the splendor of the fall colors, but we had our challenges finding golf balls.  The picture is of their "signature hole" -- the 178-yard, par 3 16th hole.  I'm sure it was an awesome site with the trees filled with leaves of many colors.

 

Wednesday, I'm out to see Pebble Lake Golf Course in Fergus Falls, Tipsinah Mounds Golf Course in Elbow Lake and Eagle Creek Golf Club in Willmar.  Unfortunately, the weather forecast does not look very good.

 

Until then-

Doug

Dateline: Monday, October 15, 2012, Ottertail, MN
I am making a trip up US-10 and I-94 to the northwest part of MN to see some courses I have not seen in my previous 14+ years with the MGA. Today, I had the opportunity to play Perham Lakeside Golf Course for the first time today with the head professional Nick Anderson and an MGA tournament player and long-time Perham member Bob Cavanagh.  We had a great day, albeit it was not very sunny or warm.

Perham provided a friendly yet challenging test of golf.  The Maple and Oak nines are part of the original course.  The Pine nine was added back in 1999.  It is well worth the effort to play if in the area.

 

Bob seemed to make birdies as though he had been playing the last 40 days although he said he hadn't, including three in a row and four in five holes.  Bob earned the medalist honors for the day, as a result, with his 71.  Yet, I managed to hole a 112-yard wedge shot for an eagle 2 on the par 4 3rd hole of the Oak nine enroute to a respectible 1-over par 74.

 

While playing, I couldn't help but notice that I was constantly hearing the horns of trains passing through town.  When I asked Bob about this, he said there are approximately 96 trains that pass through daily.  So, I couldn't help but take this picture.  I parked next to the crossing and had to wait less than 5 minutes before the next train came by.  This BNSF freight was moving at nearly 60 mph when it passed by -- which is rather exciting until I realized that if it jumped the tracks, I would be toast.

 

After leaving Perham, I ventured south to Thumper Pond Golf Resort in Ottertail where I am staying the night.  The water park is closed today, so no super-slides for me.  Instead, it was cajun walleye, "smashed" potatoes and an adult beverage to wash it down.  I play here in the morning before heading south 12 miles to Balmoral Golf Course for the afternoon.  The weather is supposed to be perfect, so I'll fill you in on the details tomorrow night.

 

Until then-

Doug