sne Posted December 7, 2023 Share Posted December 7, 2023 Quote New golf ball rules: R&A and USGA opt to limit distance ball will travel in air Golf's biggest hitters are likely to see the distance they can propel tee shots shortened by around 15 yards after the R&A and United States Golf Association announced changes to rules surrounding ball specifications. All players will be affected, but officials estimate that recreational golfers, incapable of generating the rapid swing speeds of pros, will suffer a reduction of fewer than five yards to their longest shots. There has been opposition from golf manufacturers and leading tours during a protracted period of consultation before this announcement. One manufacturer described previous proposals as "a solution seeking a problem." The new measures come into force in January 2028 for the elite game, with a phased introduction for recreational golfers in 2030. Golf balls must conform to the rules and pass strict testing protocols which determine their 'Overall Distance Standard'. The playing characteristics of a ball can be altered through its composition and/or dimple patterns which in turn can affect spin rates that could limit the distance it flies. Under current regulations, a ball struck by a robotic club swung in laboratory conditions at 120mph is only allowed to travel 317 yards (with three yards tolerance). The new rules will maintain the same distance outcome, but for a club swung at the increased rate of 125mph, which is the top end of the speed generated by pros. https://www.bbc.com/sport/golf/67634695 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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