PGA to allow distance-measuring devices during competition at championships

The PGA of America announced on Tuesday that, beginning this year, it will allow distance-measuring devices during competition rounds at the PGA Championship, KPMG Women’s PGA Championship and KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship.

“We’re always interested in methods that may help improve the flow of play during our championships,” said Jim Richerson, president of the PGA of America. “The use of distance-measuring devices is already common within the game and is now a part of the Rules of Golf. Players and caddies have long used them during practice rounds to gather relevant yardages.”

The PGA Championship will be the first of these three events to be contested, May 19-23 at The Ocean Course in Kiawah Island, South Carolina.

The PGA of America stated that the distance-measuring devices used by players and/or caddie in these events will need to conform to Rule 4.3a (1) of the Rules of Golf:

Rule 4.3a (1)

Distance and Directional Information.

• Allowed: Getting information on distance or direction (such as from a distance-measuring device or compass).

• Not Allowed: Measuring elevation changes, or Interpreting distance or directional information (such as using a device to get a recommended line of play or club selection based on the location of the player’s ball).