Ball Distance Rating (BDR) system – an idea proposed by John Solheim
John Solheim, Chairman and CEO of PING, proposed an idea of ‘Ball Distance Rating’ system (BDR) to the golf’s governing bodies in order to implement three different ball distance limits. The limits include long, longer and longest ball distances.
“A BDR Condition of Competition would create a simpler way to control distance at the Tour level – and keep the competitive design of the world’s great courses in play” Solheim said. “This concept addresses the unique talents of the top 0.1% of the world’s golfers without hurting the other 99.9%.”
While sending his proposal to the United States Golf Association, The R&A and major professional golf tours, he stated that the change will have positive impact on the game, which in turn, will help the sport to sustain and grow.
He also claimed that the BDR system will provide an option to the players to control their speeds, especially when they are playing on the longer courses.
The idea was supported by many golf experts, as well as players, as its use can help the handicaps same as it did while implementing choice of tee box or slope rating.
Moreover, BDR system will provide a new way of competition in the professional events. The tournament organisers will also benefit by addressing distance concerns in an efficient and effective manner.
Solheim is quite confident that the golf governing bodies will consider his proposal seriously and appreciated the challenges that are faced by them.
“I am hopeful they give my idea further consideration and use it as a starting point to address some of the issues the game is facing. The positive impact golf has on so many groups requires that we explore a variety of ideas to improve the health of the sport. I hope others have suggestions to offer as well.” He said.
On the contrary, Mike Davis, the executive director of the USGA, argued that for more than 100 years, the rules of golf have remained consistent for each and every golfer that has helped to make the game stronger. That is the reason why Davis believes that Solheim’s idea should not be considered in any case.
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