The Proposed Rule 14-1b
The proposed change would relabel current Rule 14-1 as Rule 14-1a , and establish Rule 14-1b as described below :
14-1b Anchoring the Club In making a stroke , the player must not anchor the club , either “ directly ” or by use of an “ anchor point .”
Note 1 : The club is anchored “ directly ” when the player intentionally holds the club or a gripping hand in contact with any part of his body , except that the player may hold the club or a gripping hand against a hand or forearm .
Note 2 : An “ anchor point ” exists when the player intentionally holds a forearm in contact with any part of his body to establish a gripping hand as a stable point around which the other hand may swing the club .
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What they ’ re saying
“ Golfer ’ s who anchor the putter do it for a reason ... it simplifies a challenging stroke especially on short putts ... fewer putts made leads to higher scores that may discourage amateurs .”
62
Average number of rounds ( per year ) played by surveyed group
59 %
Percentage of golfers who believe that anchoring the putter makes it easier to putt 3
Number of major championships won with belly putters
“ Golfer ’ s who anchor the putter do it for a reason ... it simplifies a challenging stroke especially on short putts ... fewer putts made leads to higher scores that may discourage amateurs .”
“ I observed much better than average putting down the stretch with those using the long putter and especially the ones using the anchor method and it disgusted me . I was pleased when the USGA agreed with me . I sympathize with those that have never putted any other way but the USGA has to protect the integrity of the greatest ( and hardest ) game ever .”
“ Anchoring has been allowed for years now . The horse is already out of the barn . Right now we need to keep golfers in the game . While it might be advantageous for a pro I don ’ t think it affects amateurs that much . Better to enjoy the game .”
Connecticut State Golf Association 15