Local Knowledge

USGA BACKS THE ART OF GREEN READING

One of the modifications to the Rules of Golf made by the USGA and R&A that went into effect on Jan. 1 was a limit on the use of green-reading materials. The new interpretation of Rule 4.3 (“Use of Equipment”) reaffirms the governing bodies’ view that the ability of golfers to read greens using their own judgment is an essential skill that should be maintained. The new Rule also defines how such materials may be used.

In short, the proliferation of green-reading books was turning the game into more of a science than art and skill. Golf is a challenging game in which success should depend on the judgment, skills and abilities of the player. The USGA and R&A agree that a player’s ability to read greens using their own senses is an art and a skill. It’s part of the spirit of the game.

The new interpretation limits the size and scale of detailed putting-green maps and any similar electronic or digital materials that a player may use during a round to assist with reading his or her line of play on the putting green. The USGA has a page on their website dedicated to the new interpretation of Rule 4.3 (“Use of Equipment”). GREEN-READING MATERIAL RESOURCES

A LITTLE ENCOURAGEMENT GOES A LONG WAY

Empowering girls through the game of golf and inspiring them to dream BIG is what LPGA-USGA Girls Golf and the TGA Foundation’s Winners’ Program are all about.

Established in 1989, LPGA-USGA Girls Golf is the only national junior golf program that specializes in providing girl-friendly environments for juniors to learn the game of golf, as well as develop valuable life skills like confidence and perseverance. The Winners’ Program, now in its 11th year, is a golf-and-grades initiative of the TGA Foundation in partnership with the LPGA-USGA Girls Golf of Texas Chapters. Many graduates of the programs have grown to become mentors and leaders for the younger players, while some current program members are shining examples of what is possible if given a little encouragement along the way.

Just before the start of summer, the Lady Bulldogs of McGregor High School, located southwest of Waco, won the Class 3A Texas State Girls Golf Championship at Grey Rock Country Club in Austin. For three members of the team, the journey to lifting the trophy started long before regional or even district competition. It began five years ago, when they were introduced to the game at LPGA-USGA Girls Golf of Waco. READ MORE

TEXAS GOLF HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES CLASS OF 2019

The Texas Golf Hall of Fame recently announced its 2019 Class of Inductees. The incoming class will be honored with a formal induction ceremony at The San Antonio Country Club on Monday, October 14. Along with the evening’s festivities that are open to the public, each of the 2019 Inductee’s distinguished history of achievement will be commemorated on granite markers on the prestigious Texas Golf Walk of Fame at historic Brackenridge Park Golf Course.

The Texas Golf Hall of Fame 2019 Inductees are Jimmy Walker of Boerne (Professional Player), Mike Booker of Houston (Amateur Player), Fin Ewing, III of Dallas (Lifetime Achievement), Cameron Doan of Dallas (Golf Professional/Teacher) and Shady Oaks Country Club in Fort Worth (Texas Registry of Historic Golf Courses). READ MORE

FRESH IDEAS IN F&B [CMAA]

Clubs are coming up with new ways to make dining more appealing to members. Many of today’s members are seeking meaningful experiences. And while great service and amenities are important elements, creating new experiences doesn’t have to be expensive.

What’s most important is to come up with fresh, creative ideas. And food & beverage events are one of the most cost-effective ways to add wow to the club experience without spending a fortune.

Many clubs get ideas from clubs outside their region. They borrow an idea, freshen it up and adapt it to their club. In her article for CMAA Magazine, author Rebecca Larsen looks at some of the best ideas from clubs around the U.S. READ MORE