At its June 24 meeting in Sunriver, Ore., the Board of Directors of The PGA of America formally agreed to adopt the USGA’s ban on anchored strokes, which will go into effect  Jan. 1, 2016. This will be implemented at PGA spectator events, such as the PGA Championship, the Senior PGA Championship presented by KitchenAid and the Ryder Cup, as well as PGA member events, highlighted by the PGA Professional National Championship.

Furthermore, The PGA of America and the PGA Tour strongly recommend that the USGA extend the time period for implementation of Rule 14-1b for amateur play beyond Jan. 1, 2016. The USGA and The R&A jointly announced on May 21, 2013, that Rule 14-1b would go into effect at the start of the next Rules of Golf cycle, commencing in 2016.

The PGA of America has expressed its concern that Rule 14-1b could adversely affect recreational golf, as well as play at the elite level. The PGA Board of Directors, on June 24, discussed the issue in detail and ultimately decided to do what is in the best interest of the game of golf — to continue to abide by a single set of Rules that define the sport.

“We had a very spirited debate and discussion among our Board members at the June meeting,” said PGA President Ted Bishop. “The PGA of America respects the USGA as the Rules-governing body in the United States. We firmly and consistently stated our position throughout the open comment period, and while we agree to implement Rule 14-1b, we continue to feel strongly that the amateur player needs a longer period of adjustment to this Rule.

On July 1, the PGA Tour Policy Board acknowledged that the ban on anchored strokes would apply to PGA Tour competitions beginning Jan. 1, 2016. The PGA of America previously announced that it would not comment on the matter until after the conclusion of the July 1 meeting.

“The PGA of America hopes that in the future, the Rules-making process will be more open and transparent, as well as interactive, when it comes to how changes in the Rules of Golf can possibly impact participation in the game,” said Bishop.

About The PGA of America

Since its founding in 1916, The PGA of America has maintained a twofold mission: to establish and elevate the standards of the profession and to grow interest and participation in the game of golf. By establishing and elevating the standards of the golf profession through world-class education, career services, marketing and research programs, The PGA enables its professionals to maximize their performance in their respective career paths and showcases them as experts in the game and in the multi-billion dollar golf industry. By creating and delivering world-class championships and innovative programs, The PGA of America elevates the public’s interest in the game, the desire to play more golf, and ensures accessibility to the game for everyone, everywhere. As The PGA nears its centennial, the PGA brand represents the very best in golf.

Contact:
Jamie Carbone
The PGA of America
561-624-8446
jcarbone@pgahq.com