USGA responds to end of comment period on proposed anchor ban

• By Golf Channel Digital
• Mar 1, 2013 7:25 AM ET

As the comment period closed on a rule change jointly proposed by the U.S. Golf Association and the Royal & Ancient last fall, the USGA issued a statement on Friday updating its progress. The 90-day period ended yesterday regarding proposed Rule 14-1b, which would prohibit anchoring any club when making a golf stroke:

“The 90-day comment period on proposed Rule 14-1b has been very constructive and we appreciate the thoughtfulness of everyone who offered feedback. We received comments, questions and suggestions from recreational golfers, golf professionals and organizations representing many segments of the golf community. The discussion has been informative and serves as a strong reminder of just how passionate golfers are about the game – no matter their position on this specific issue.”

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“For well over a year, the golf community has engaged in a healthy and spirited discussion about anchoring, as well as other important issues confronting the game. Throughout this period, we have worked to explain the intent of Rule 14-1b, which aims to clarify and preserve the traditional and essential nature of the golf stroke that has helped to make golf a unique and enjoyable game of skill and challenge for centuries.”

“As the comment period comes to a close, we will continue to review and evaluate the feedback that we have received. As we have throughout this process, we will continue to confer with the R&A in our work to reach a final resolution on this matter.”