Something needs to be done...
about the length of PGA pros. I just heard on the Wstern Open telecast that Vijay, through 17 holes in his third round, had hit 10 wedges for approach shots. Given that the shortest par 3 is 180 yards and thus more than a wedge, this means that on the other 13 long holes (only three of which were par fives), Vijay only had to hit more than a wedge for an approach on 3 holes!!
Though I know this is old news, I still cannot accept that new technology has turned the typical Tour event into a glamorous pitch and put contest. Of course, as the US Open highlights every year, growing out the rough can bring shotmaking back into the game. But more and more I am coming around to Jack's idea that we need a standard Tour ball for all the players that won't go over 280 yards on a regular basis.
7 Comments:
Just underscores the advantages of the LPGA.....where they actually need 14 clubs!
ME AM SILLY BUT WILL TAKE ME CLUBS AND THROW AWAY AND USE ME CUE TIPS FOR NEXT ROUNDEEEESSS>>>>>WEEEEE !!!!!
If you analyze the stats, you'll see that driving distance alone doesn't result in much of an advantage at all. It may make a great emotional debate, but factually it has no basis.
Look at a number of these articles for more information grounded in fact.
Whether you like the fact that pros are hitting the ball a long way or not, well, that's another matter altogether.
Two points, Eric:
1. I think you need to differentiate the majors -- where all the courses are set to require shot-making -- from the regular tour stops. Mist of the articles you reference seem to be about the majors.
2. I'm not complaining that the long hitting leads to lower scores, but rather than it reduces the need for great golfers to have to hit more than 4 or 5 clubs well.
I have always noticed that the best of the best, Tiger, Phil, Ernie, Vijay, Retief etc. for the most part are towards the top in driving distance but average at best in driving accuracy. Furyk is the notable exception.
Standardize the ball. Golf is the only sport in the world that does not have a ball. Everyones ball should have the same specs.
Make 'em all use standard old range balls from a grab bag.
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