By now you may have heard (or not?) about the change in the rules governing grooves in golf clubs that will take effect on January 1, 2010. Do you know how these rules will affect you and your team? golf?
The R&A and the USGA conducted extensive research on beats based on what was happening on tour. The new V-groove configuration was resulting in golfers generating the same amount of spin from the rough as from the fairway! This was effectively lessening the penalty of being raw.
In order to reward straight shots and make life harder if you miss a fairway or green and have to play from the rough, the R&A and USGA are now going to limit the volume of the groove and the sharpness of the edges. in all clubs except drivers and lofted putters. greater than or equal to 25 degrees. As a general rule of thumb, this translates to applying wedges to your 5-iron. Any existing limitations on the grooves and texture of the face will remain.
The new rules apply to new club models manufactured on or after January 1, 2010. Existing models after that date will still be able to be manufactured until the end of 2010.
Now you’d be forgiven if you asked, “Won’t the pros stick to models made before January 1, 2010? Well, they can try, but it’s not going to work. The R&A and USGA clearly thought of that and have countered it.” making it a “Condition of Competition” that professionals use clubs manufactured according to the new rules.
So what does all this mean to you? Are you going to have to fork out for a new set of clubs or face a ban from club competitions? Fortunately, you have nothing to worry about unless you are playing golf at the highest amateur or professional level.
Any club in existence on December 31, 2009 and formed until December 31, 2010 that meets the current requirements will remain legal until at least 2024. There is a review of this by the two bodies due in 2020 when they will decide whether to extend the date. even beyond 2024.
So you can kick back and continue stroking your favorite crocodile tooth clubs with pride while understanding that playing great golf is more about the mind than the equipment, assuming you have a half-decent kit to begin with.