In golf size can matter
Golf is the game for all ages, and its players come in all shapes and sizes.
We maybe short or tall, slim or not so slim, younger or more mature, male or female.
The myriad differences among golfers, in terms of height and weight are uniquely accommodated by the Rules of Golf in such a way that the same rules apply to everyone.
One of my favourite PGA professionals, Paul Kruger, did a very interesting analysis of the different sizes of people in relations to the rules.
Does size really matter? Well, it might surprise you, but size does matter, at least when it comes to certain applications of the rules!
For instance, for the most part, taller players use longer clubs, whereas shorter players use shorter clubs.
The difference in the lengths of clubs is one area where size matters in terms of the rules.
Consider, for example, the depth of the teeing ground.
By definition, the teeing ground is a rectangular area two club-lengths in depth, the front and sides of which are defined by the outside limits of the two tee-markers.
The adult male golfer, equipped with a 45” driver, will be allowed to tee his ball within a larger area than his junior counterpart equipped with just a 30” driver.
A similar example is the allowable area for dropping when taking relief.
NOTE:
The author is a R&A Certified Tournament Administrator and Referee and he is a Teaching Professional. He is also a member of the Professional Golfers Association of South Africa. Feedback: dingaank@ gmail
A vibrant writer who gives a great insight on hot topics and issues
