As expected, the U.S. Golf Association and Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland, today proposed a ban on the “anchoring” of putters against a player’s body. Proposed Rule 14-1b say the club is “anchored” directly when the player intentionally holds the club or a gripping hand in contact with any part of his body. Except that the player may hold the club or gripping hand against a hand or forearm.
Webb Simpson
R&A Chief Executive Peter Dawson said anchored strokes “threaten to supplant traditional strokes, which with all their frailties are integral to the long-standing integrity of our sport.”
USGA Executive Director Mike Davis emphasized the proposed rule change is directed at any club – not only putters – whereby a player anchors the club against his body. Some players have indeed “anchored” hybrid club and even fairway woods when chipping around greens, but the proposed rule is undoubtedly is aimed at those players who anchor long and belly putters against some part of their body.
If approved within the next few months, Rule 14-1b would go into effect in 2016.
