"The great thing about this game is the fact that we have the same set of rules for everybody."

Thanks to reader jmr for this report on Dick Rugge's webcast appearance with Andy North. I guess since Andy is asking serious questions, I'm going to have to lay off him for at least a month.

While I still support the groove rule change (I know, you're relieved with that clarification), the bifurcating of golf keeps me wondering why we couldn't have done it with the ball first.

Andy North just destroyed Dick Rugge! Just eating lunch, watching the open webcast and Dick Rugge comes in the booth to talk about the new groove rules. Rugge explains that the condition will apply on Jan. 1 2010 for pros, and 2024 for ams. Andy North asks, "So if I have a favorite wedge will I have to get a new one?" Rugge says, "Yes, but only if you're a pro." Andy then asks, "So I guess I'll need 2 different sets of clubs then." Rugge nervously answers in the affirmative.

It gets better. The very next question asks Rugge about conforming clubs . . . the first sentence out of his mouth was, "The great thing about this game is the fact that we have the same set of rules for everybody." This is literally the very next comment after his stumbling bifurcation explanation. Ummm, Dick . . . 2 rules, same rules, 2 sets, 2010, 2024? Not the same game, not the same rules, not a clue about fixing this game.

North also commented on the balls going too far and that they needed to spin more (a common thought from those with experience and/or common sense). Rugge's explanation? "Driving distance has actually flatlined for 6 years on tour." Thanks Dick -- now that 80% of classic courses were destroyed about 8 years ago with the new ball and titanium face, its nice to know that the USGA has full control. Andy North +1, Dick Rugge and the USGA -100.
06.19.2009 | Unregistered Commenterjmr