PGA TOUR to Test Range Finders

It was announced weeks ago that the PGA would be adopting vast rule changes that are set to take place over the next few years.  One of the most controversial is the possible addition of distance-measuring devices (DMDs).

After hearing the backlash and possible problems with DMDs, which are set to be allowed on courses starting in 2019, the PGA has decided to give the devices a test run.  To test the viability of these rangefinders, the PGA is allowing players and caddies to use DMDs on the Web.com Tour, Mackenzie Tour and PGA Tour Latinoamérica.

Specifically, players and caddies that compete on these tours will be able to use DMDs in four consecutive events that run from April through July.  After each of these Tours’ test the practicality of range finding, the PGA and player advisory board will reevaluate the situation.  One possible solution if the PGA decides this is not something they want to adopt, they could create a local rule that bans them on the PGA TOUR exclusively.

Seeing that local rule created is something that a lot of players and caddies would seem to be in favor of.  While it would make their job easier, some believe it takes away from the competition of the game.  John Wood, caddie for Matt Kuchar, for example, stated that allowing DMDs on the PGA TOUR would take away from one of the most important components of what his job entails.

This test period will take this into account along with all of the possible positives that can come from using DMDs.  Andy Pazder, the chief tournaments and competitions officer for the Tour, said that they “will consider the impact on pace of play, optics and any other effects they might have on the competition.”

This test period will be a crucial time for the proposed rule change and it will be interesting to see if findings show that DMDs will have more of a positive or negative impact on the game.

Cover Image via bushnellgolf.com