R&A lifts ban for mobile usage during the British Open – Golf Feature
The organisers of the British Open, a golf major event, have allowed limited use of mobile phones on the course, to both the spectators and the staff.
In 2006, the decision was taken that banned the spectators to use their mobile phones during the tournament. However, the decision has been reversed this year and will allow them to make calls in designated areas.
According to the Royal and Ancient (R&A) Chief Executive Peter Dawson, the decision has been made after considering the fact that people want to stay connected with their friends and family even when they are at the course.
Prohibition of using mobile phones makes them feel uncomfortable at times, decreasing their interest in the game.
Therefore, the R&A does not want the golf fans to bear the consequences of the ban in a negative manner.
However, they will not be allowed to take pictures and make videos on the course, as the rule remains the same in this context.
The decision by R&A has been praised by many, as it will enrich the experiences of the golf fans visiting the golf courses to watch their favourite players contending against each other.
"We are offering spectators access to an enhanced range of apps for Android, iPhone and iPad that will offer live video of play and other attractions at the Open," he said.
"They will keep them up to date with essential championship information, including score, tee times, news and an interactive course guide".
Besides that, several concerns may also rise following the change in policy. It has been observed in the past that many players have reported distractions while they teed off on the course.
At times, it happens that the spectators take pictures when a player is about to make his drive. As a result, the flash of the cameras distract the players, miscuing the shots played
For that reason, the R&A plans to liaison with the spectators to minimize the issues that are expected to be raised.
"Strict rules will be put in place designed to ensure that play is not affected in any way by the change. Our spectators are very knowledgeable and understand golf and so we are confident they will respect the players," he said.
Meanwhile, almost all members of the golf community have welcomed lifting of the ban. According to them, the decision will benefit in promoting the game and help the players and the assistant staff in getting an increased amount of publicity.
The move was also hailed by the game commentators, who said the ban should not have been imposed, in the first place.
The organisers have not achieved anything out of the prohibition and it is good that they have finally come to the realisation of the need.
Still, they have backed the lifting of the ban altogether. Application of such restrictions in the age of information technology, when communication has become an essential on the finger tips, looks to be too odd to be accepted.
It will particularly help the increase flow of information related to the game of golf and golfers from inside the course to external stakeholders such as media outlets.
It will compliment the efforts for the promotion of the image of the sport and its players.
British Open is the third major event of the year, scheduled at the Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club, from July 19 to 22, 2012.
The views expressed in this article are the writer's own and in no way represent Bettor.com's official editorial policy.
Tags: