Our Opinion: USGA's Hits
Home Run in Benching Palmer
TravelGolf.com
Staff Editorial
Golf needs Arnold Palmer. But his decision to endorse illegal
and trick equipment is reprehensible given the magnitude of his
reputation. The USGA reminds Palmer that he is not above the rules.
The rules
of golf apparently do not mean much to Arnold Palmer.
And to Palmer, his business relationship with Callaway and his desire
to make a buck, mean more than the long-established rules of golf.
Palmer's endorsement of Callaway's non-conforming ERC II driver put
a black eye on the game of golf and Palmer himself. It's sad a man who
has a sterling reputation would be so far in the rough to endorse equipment
that has been determined by the United States Golf Association as illegal.
Shame on you Arnold. And kudos to the United States Golf Association.
USGA president Trey Holland boldly stood up for his association and
the game by removing Palmer from his 25-year association as honorary chairperson
of the organization's membership program. Holland effectively said "the
rules do matter." Palmer, 71, began an alliance last fall
with Callaway Golf and attached his name to the ERC II, which exceeds
the USGA's allowance for "spring-like effect." The USGA has
decreed the club illegal for competition or to post scores for determining
an official handicap.
Palmer's endorsement and decision to put his name next to the ERC
II is reprehensible given the magnitude of his reputation and what
he has meant to the game. Few have done more for their sport than
the friendly, gregarious old gentleman.
More than a great golfer, he has been the greatest and classiest ambassador
golf has ever had. As one of most significant figures in golf history,
it is Palmer's responsibility to encourage golfers of all skills to uphold
the game's rules and procedures. It is his responsibility to encourage
golfers to aspire to achieve great scores within the rules of golf,
not through the use of cheap, trick equipment from manufacturers whose
priority is increasing corporate earnings.
Thankfully, Holland and the USGA stood up for the game decisively and
courageously and told Palmer that he needs to re-think his endorsements.
Golf was around long before Arnold Palmer or Eli Callaway. The game will
be around long afterwards. Golf has been successful because its rules
are considered sacred and because there is a governing board to enforce
those rules. Palmer has a magnificent reputation and presence that is
enjoyed by few in sports.
Palmer and Callaway have demonstrated a reckless arrogance and regard
for the rules of golf and the USGA by even considering endorsing an illegal
club. Palmer's actions lead one to believe that he thinks he is bigger
than the game that made him so successful.
No golfer is bigger than the game. And the USGA has every right to determine
its standards for equipment. If they do not enforce standards for clubs,
then handicaps and golf courses will lose relevancy.
Fortunately, the USGA has stood their ground.
If it really is okay to use illegal golf clubs, then why not souped
up golf balls that go a mile? Since the rules don't matter, why have a
limit on golf clubs in the bag? Why not a mulligan or two for recreational
golfers?
The USGA needs Arnold Palmer in its organization. Golf needs Arnold
Palmer. Arnold Palmer needs to end his association with illegal equipment
and follow the rules. |
