“Excessively penal?” Really? I know the term “hazard” has been expunged from the Rules of Golf, but that’s what bunkers are (“Picture This: Buried Hopes,” July 24 GGP).
It seems to me as if it’s time to accept that the pros play a different game requiring different rules. No rough, no trees, no bunkers, no bad lies, no out of bounds, no firm greens, no wind and no rain. Probably a few more that I haven't thought of. Let the prima donnas get on with it and leave the rest of us to suffer all of the above.
Also, can I comment on the disgraceful behaviour of some of those attending the Open Championship at Royal Liverpool? It was bad enough to hear the ludicrous shouts that accompanied most shots but worse were the comments made to Messrs. Homa and Harman. If I can invoke a stereotype here, not surprising in the USA but totally unacceptable here in the U.K. Hopefully, the R&A will empower marshals to eject these people in the future and ban them from future events.
I feel so much better now.
David George
Newcastle upon Tyne, England
I’ve always thought the bunkers should be penalizing and something to avoid at all costs in major events (“Open trapped by bunker mentality,” July 24 GGP).
Most professional players prefer a nice bunker lie compared to high grass. The revetted bunkers at Royal Liverpool in the Open Championship are exactly what they should be: a penalty for being there. If we’re trying to identify the best players, then let them make decisions to avoid penalty bunkers. Take an extra club or play away from them.
“The Wee Mon” Brian Harman did just that under difficult conditions and extreme pressure, quite reminiscent of “The Hawk” Ben Hogan.
Garen Eggleston
The Villages, Florida
I have yet to hear about this sensible plan to roll back distances: Why not cut down the length of the golf tee for golf at certain levels? A shorter tee would mean more of a descending swing path, which would also increase spin rate and thus decrease distance. This option would not impact manufacturers, who have such a big say so in the sport, and would be an easy fix.
Paul Brown
Tallahassee, Florida
Al Pellegrini should be an inspiration to all senior citizens, whether they play golf or not (“98 and living large,” July 28, GGP+).
I am only 82, and have now broken my age once or twice a season since age 78, but am inspired by Al.
Years ago, I was paired with a 93-year-old retired surgeon who had shot his age from 73 on, and did it the day we played together. At that time, he was my inspiration.
Thanks for introducing me to Al.
Frank Goldschmidt
North Port, Florida
What a year!
Slow-play controversies. Reduced-flight ball. LIV continues to function. Increased PGA Tour purses. A PGA Tour-PIF agreement. A medical condition. A PIF-R&A meeting.
The “majors” did not disappoint and were major.
A lot of news for us duffers to offer observations and opinions on.
And amid the distractions, the golf competition continues to go on strong.
Dave Richner
St. Johns, Florida
This is the best-written newsletter covering any sport … ever (“Trophy Hunter,” July 24 GGP).
Remarkable craftsmanship. Vivid imagery. Your writers not only love the game of golf. They love writing lovingly and well about the game of golf.
Congratulations. Keep up the good work.
Harry Clark
Greenwich, Connecticut
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