EGU permit distance-measuring devices

The English Golf Union (EGU) has permitted the use of Distance-Measuring Devices (DMDs) to be used in all its championships in 2009.

The EGU’s Board of Directors recently agreed the move following the recommendation of the Championship Committee at its recent meeting at Woodhall Spa.

EGU Officials have contacted the R&A and the other Home Unions to inform them of the move and the change will be written into the conditions of each of next year’s events. 

DMDs that provide other information such as wind speed, temperature and elevation, will not be allowed.

Any players who breach these conditions face disqualification under Rule 14-3 regardless of whether any such additional function is actually used.

Earlier this year the Professional Golfers Association caused controversy when it agreed the use of GPS satellite navigation devices.

Such devices are banned on the European Tour although players are allowed to use them in practice rounds.

The latest move is bound to cause further controversy with many golf fans taking the view that an element of skill and judgement is being lost. 

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