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Grooves In Golf Clubs - Will You Be Affected By The New Rules?

By Steve Lee

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Published: 28Jun2009
Word count: 417
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Many of you may have heard about the change in the rules relating to grooves in golf clubs which comes into effect on 1st January 2010, but do you know whether or not you will be affected?

Extensive research was carried out by the R & A and the USGA which showed that the modern "V" groove configuration can result in golfers generating the same amount of spin from the rough as from the fairway. It would have been interesting to see what the research consisted of, as I think it is evident to most of us just watching on our TV screens how the top players often achieve incredible control from what can sometimes look like an almost unplayable lie to the average golfer.

In an attempt to place a premium on accuracy by making shots more difficult from the rough, the two governing bodies are to limit groove volume and groove edge sharpness on all clubs excluding drivers and putters with a loft greater than or equal to 25 degrees. As a general rule, therefore, this will apply to a 5 iron and above. All existing limitations on grooves and face roughness will remain.

The new rules will apply to all new models of clubs manufactured on or after 1st January 2010 although models existing at that date will still allowed to be manufactured until the end of 2010.

This begs the question, "won't Tour Pros just stick with models manufactured before 1st January 2010?" Unfortunately for them, the R & A and USGA are far too 'cute' for that because as from that date they will make it a "Condition of Competition" at the top professional level that they use clubs manufactured under the new rules.

But what about you and me? Well, you'll be pleased to know there's not too much for us to worry about unless you are a pro or top amateur where the new rules will be introduced in stages. Models existing at 31st December 2009 and manufactured any time until 31st December 2010, which meet the current regulations, will continue to conform until at least 2024 and even then the time frame may be extended when the governing bodies review it in 2020.

So, no need to worry about having to fork out another small fortune on 1st January 2010 for a conforming set of irons but be aware that if your cash is burning a hole in your pocket and you take a fancy to that shiny new model after then, just double-check that those irons do conform!

Steve's mission is to share the wide variety of golf advice, concepts and ideas that he has come across over his many years in the golf business, and makes no apology if some readers find any of the material radical or outside the box, particularly if it stimulates lively debate. He has put together a complimentary report to help your golf game which you can access now at http://www.golfadvicedetective.com

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