Anchors Away!

Tom Ferrell

The United States Golf Association Tuesday morning dropped a rare bombshell onto the modern game of golf, banning the practice of anchoring long putters and the wildly popular belly putters as of January 1, 2016. Anchoring involves affixing the grip of the putter or the forearm of the holding hand to the body during the stroke.

The proposed rule change has stirred up a hornet’s nest of fierce supporters and angry detractors.

Two-time Masters winner Bernhard Langer, the first major winner to go to the long putter, said, “it's disappointing . . . very disappointing. It's the same thing I've said for months: I don't know why they couldn't come to the same conclusion 40 years ago that they did today. Why does it take 40 years? Just because we have major winners, that's what it comes down to.”

A player using an anchored putter has recently won each of the four majors, including 2013 Masters champion Adam Scott. Reigning British Open champion Ernie Els and U.S. Open champion Webb Simpson also anchored. So did Keegan Bradley in the 2011 PGA Championship.

Others, like Graeme McDowell, applauded the ruling. “I agree with the decision. I think anchoring goes against the ethos of the game, the physical demands of the game. You shouldn’t be anchoring a club to your body.”

Though the rule is now official, the debate is far from over. The PGA TOUR has vigorously expressed its opposition, and it’s possible that the TOUR could implement a local rule allowing anchoring. Of course, players who might continue to anchor under such a rule would have to adapt for the U.S. Open and the British Open. The LPGA has been clear: they will abide by the Rules of Golf. The PGA of America is playing nice for now, but their statement on the ruling is far from an endorsement.

One interesting fact that all should note: the anchoring ban does NOT prohibit any piece of equipment. Long putters and belly putters are still allowed. They simply cannot be anchored to the body. The claw grip is okay. Left hand low? Give it a go. Have your way the broomstick, but you’re going to have to do the sweeping with your hands and shoulders, not your chest or chin.

It’s a big day in the world of golf. But pass the popcorn – this show is just getting started.

 

Colorado AvidGolfer is the state’s leading resource for golf and the lifestyle that surrounds it. It publishes eight issues annually and proudly delivers daily content via www.coloradoavidgolfer.com.