‘Unusual and concerning’ rise in driving distances

The average distance gain across the seven worldwide tours in golf has increased to more than three yards since 2016, prompting the sport’s two governing bodies to look into the issue.

According to the 2017 distance study produced by the R&A and USGA, the latest figure has jumped out after similar reports in 2015 and 2016 showed driving distance since 2003 creeping up about 0.2 yards per year.

“The 2017 data shows a deviation from this trend,” said the two organisations in a press release issued yesterday. “As noted in previous annual reports, variability in driving distance of four or more yards from season to season on any one tour is not uncommon.

“However, this level of increase across so many tours in a single season is unusual and concerning and requires closer inspection and monitoring to fully understand the causes and effects.

“As the review of this issue progresses, the R&A and the USGA remain committed to the spirit of the 2002 Joint Statement of Principles which recognise that distance impacts many aspects of golf and that any further significant increases in hitting distances at the highest level are undesirable.”

Both R&A chief executive Martin Slumbers and Mike Davis, the USGA’S executive director, hinted recently that the distance issue was set to be addressed after conceding their “line in the sand”, drawn as part of that Joint Statement of Principles, had been crossed.

According to the press release, the two bodies now intend to “conduct a thoughtful conversation about the effects of distance prior to making any specific proposals”.

It added: “We remain openminded and our absolute priority is to ensure that all key stakeholders are involved in an open and inclusive process and that we move forward together in the best interests of golf at all levels.

“There is no fixed timetable, but we will commence this process immediately and endeavour to reach a conclusion as promptly as possible.

“Ultimately, the R&A and the USGA remain steadfastly committed to ensuring a sustainable and enjoyable future for golf.”