FOREWORD

Major rules changes (Pg 40) from this year forth provide long overdue clarity on some rather foggy situations, golf is now more practical, fun, and faster. The last of which I’m not too sure will happen with all golfers, it’s just the nature of the beast, but we can hope.

The one rule change that sticks out like a flag still in its hole, is the one about leaving the flag in its hole when on the green. Do you take it out because that’s the way it’s always been done? Or do you leave it in because you are a) too lazy, b) time aware, or c) smart?

Long confused myself, I have seen both camps that have the flag out ala Mickelson, and in. Having the pin out leaves more of the hole to catch the ball, but nothing to stop my ball skimming over the cup from a hot hit. Flagstick in is akin to having a catcher behind the hole, but that hole looks a tight squeeze for that white orb.

Over the years, I’ve had my share of balls drop in or deflect off because of the flagstick, and I still can’t conclude which is better. That is until rocket scientist Dave Pelz decided to scientifically and statistically prove over ten thousand putts by man and machine, that I would make 18% more putts with the flag in; and to not adjust the pin if it was leaning slightly away or toward me. Why? Leaning away, the hole becomes larger, and leaning towards, the ball rebounds downward into the hole.

You heard it here first.

And what of the flagstick itself? Mad Scientist on Tour, Bryson De Chambeau says it depends on its COR. Fibreglass, leave it in; metal, pin out.

The science has been done, and the numbers have spoken. Even if you understand none it, use the rules to your advantage, and go play your best golf in 2019.

I wish you a good year and good golf.