Management Company Comes Out in Opposition to Anchored Putter Ban


The chorus of voices opposed to the proposed ban by the USGA and R&A of putters that are anchored to the body continues to grow. The PGA Tour, PGA of America and National Golf Course Owners Association have been joined by one of the golf industry's largest course-management companies, Troon Golf.

In a statement released Tuesday, the Scottsdale, Ariz.-based company said:

"Soon, the U.S. Golf Association and Royal & Ancient will decide whether or not to adopt a proposed rule to ban anchoring the putter. Recently, the PGA Tour weighed in, opposing the ban and some other groups have come on board as well in that opposition. One is Troon Golf, which manages some of the world's best golf courses in more than 25 countries and 30 states, including the fabulous Troon North Golf Club based near the company's headquarters in Scottsdale, Ariz.

"Troon has a vested interest in the good of the game, as do all of us who make our living in golf, so you can understand why they want it to be as enjoyable as possible for consumers. Here's Troon's take on the proposed rule that would prohibit players from anchoring the club to their body, the method used for belly putters and long putters that are pressed against the chest:

"At Troon, we are extremely passionate about introducing new players to the game and making golf more fun and enjoyable for those who love the sport as much as we do. This is why we feel compelled to comment on the recent discussion regarding the Rules of Golf being reviewed in relation to the use of an anchored putting stroke.

"While we respect the USGA's leadership in the Rules of Golf, Troon supports the opinion expressed by the PGA Tour, the PGA of America, and the NGCOA that banning anchoring is not in the best interest of the game. Our belief is centered on a desire to give all level of golfers more reasons to play and eliminate barriers that push potential players to invest their time and resources towards other leisure activities.

"In essence, we believe in the USGA's authority to look at the equipment and other aspects of the rules, but feel the anchored putting stroke is not the place to start. As Jack Nicklaus has said, if we want to lower costs and barriers to entry in our game, there are many places for the USGA or other governing bodies to take steps to shorten yardage and time, and eliminate costs in the game of golf.

"Above all else, we encourage golfers to have fun pursuing methods under the current rules of golf that help improve their skills and thereby increase their enjoyment of the game."