The LPGA responded to Tuesday’s release by the USGA and R&A of the Distance Insights Project report.
The LPGA stated that it does not see “distance as a hindrance towards the growth of the LPGA Tour or to the courses on which we can compete.”
But the statement went on to say that “the data shows there are some aspects of increased distance which are making the game more expensive and more difficult for recreational players. … we see opportunity in exploring ways to remove some of the longtime barriers of the game such as cost, limited teeing ground options, length of courses, time to play, etc.”
The process of making any changes at the pro level as well as locally as a result of the report are long-term. The LPGA says it is “interested to see what comes out of the next phase of research and feedback.”
The USGA and R&A have monitored increases in modern hitting distance since their 2002 Joint Statement of Principles without action, but Tuesday’s release of their Distance Insights Project seems to pave the way for changes.
