Another week in the books, and two more new millionaires make the top 10 on the Money List. Check out the latest stat review through the Phoenix Open. We now have 5 data points from which draw conclusions, but I personally am still hesitant to call any type of verdict on the impact of the Groove Rule. GIR% remains way up over last year. That in itself seems counter to what the Groove Rule was supposed to do. And, when you combine that with the fact that Driving Accuracy is also way up, but the payoff is flat to last year, I can’t help but wonder if we have brewing a tempest in a teapot. Another thought has crossed my mind… so far this season weather has played a significant part in course conditions. Specifically water. As I recall, it was wet at Riviera, Pebble, and this past week in Phoenix they got rain prior to Sunday’s final round. Could that be the reason players are hitting, and holding, way more greens than last year? I don’t know yet. Stay tuned.
Here’s one thing I know for sure. I happened to watch some of the tournament on Saturday. At the time, Camillo Villegas was either in the lead, or very close. He came to the 14th tee, I think…a par four measuring 403. He hit his tee shot within spitting distance of the green, something like 45 yards from the front edge. Here’s a news flash for golf’s rule making and rule enforcing group… it wouldn’t matter if you made these guys play with no grooves, when that kind of power gets going in the right direction, it’s pretty tough to beat.
As always, thanks for stopping by. And don’t forget to tell a friend about this spot. I appreciate everyone who stops by. Peace.