USGA REAFFIRMS SINGLE SET OF
RULES BEST SERVE GAME

FAR HILLS, N.J. -- The United States Golf Association (USGA) Executive Committee, during its regularly scheduled Fall meeting on October 20-21, discussed the October 18th announcement by an equipment manufacturer that it intends to market in the U.S. golf clubs not conforming to USGA rules.

The USGA has been golf’s national rule-making body for more than a century. As an impartial entity with no commercial interest in the rule-making process, the Association reaffirms that a single set of rules, including those for equipment, best serve all constituencies in the game, including both competitive and recreational players. The USGA appreciates the PGA of America’s expression of support on this issue (see www.pga.com).

The USGA, while appreciating Arnold Palmer’s vast contributions to the game including 25 years as chairman of the USGA Members Program, is puzzled by his recent endorsement of non-conforming equipment. This stance contradicts his long-standing opinions on this subject. The Association expects to communicate directly with Mr. Palmer so it can gain a clearer understanding of his views.