What happened? 49-year-old golf fan Corine Remande says she has lost the sight in one eye after she was hit by a golf ball at the Ryder Cup last Friday. US Open champion Brooks Koepka’s tee shot veered left into a group of spectators at the sixth hole and Remande was hit in her right eye. She has claimed there was no warning given, while officials have stated there were several shouts of “fore”. Remande received first-aid on the spot and was taken to a specialist eye hospital in Paris but says she has been told she won’t regain her sight.
Does this happen often? This sort of incident is extremely rare (although an errant Rory McIlroy shot struck a spectator at Wentworth in May), but while golf is perceived as a harmless sport and the frequency of being hit by a golf ball is low, one study estimated the force of impact to the head is the equivalent of one-tenth what would be expected in a head-on car crash. And there are tragic instances of deaths in amateur golf.
How fast can a golf ball travel? Analysis has revealed that top golfers hit the ball at speeds of beyond 185mph. There is a reduction in velocity by the time they are falling to the ground, but balls are still moving at approximately 60mph a few hundred yards away. However the playing area is vast and those watching the action can be unsighted by crowds, trees and course topography.
What is the legal situation? European Tour officials are investigating this incident but the indications are that it may take some time. Meanwhile, Remande was reported to be having discussions on Tuesday about taking legal action. Her options may be limited, however, as all Ryder Cup tickets were issued in accordance with the ground regulations for the event, which state that spectators acknowledge the general risks associated with the sport, including those associated with errant golf shots.
What about other sports? There are dangers associated with other sporting events. Freak accidents can occur and this week the Coventry City goalkeeper reported back for training with a bandaged head after a stray puck at an ice hockey match he attended hit him. Cricket is one sport with obvious attendant concerns. But though the ball is harder, the playing area is smaller, there is only one ball to follow and fans at T20 games, for example, are actively encouraged to catch the ball if it comes their way.
