Thought I'd join the discussion on the rules. For me it entirely depends on the situation. Since I play in a number of tournaments it is in my best interest to have a working knowledge of the rules. If you are playing in a tournament it is your responsibility to not only call a penalty on yourself if you committed a rules enfraction, but also to call a penalty on a fellow competitor who commits a rule enfraction, this is known as "protecting the field" ensuring that no one gains an advantage. Other than that if I'm playing a casual round I really don't care what any of the other players do UNLESS we're playing for money (and in my opinion if you're not gambling you ain't playing golf). Then, certain things are settled on the first tee, primarily are we playing the ball up (preferred lies) or down (play it as you find it) through the green or in your fairway only. For the most part I like the rules changes made this year. The only rule that I have a problem with is the "anchoring ban." Having battled the "putting yips" for about 50 years and having the belly putter as my savior when the USGA basically banned my putter I stopped renewing my membership.
It's the gentlemanly thing to do to call a penalty on yourself but ratting out your pals is anonymous. Have you heard the expression "snitches end up in ditches?"
Great post. I see a lot of players still using the long putter. I guess the USGA felt it gave them a competitive advantage by anchoring it. Damn, 50 years is a long time to have the yips and still shoot the scores you do.
No offense but I despise those 6' brooms. I was never happier to hear that one come out. Now if they'd only outlaw the damn things all together (see my dislike of Adam Scott)
Rain & 35 mph winds forecast for tomorrow. It's about time the Open weather showed up. Being from Ireland should give Lowry an advantage.
