Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that aims to help you play smarter and improve your golf skills.
In 2019, the Rules of Golf underwent a major makeover. Notable changes included allowing players to putt with the flagstick, removing the embarrassment of a double chip, and adjusting the dropping position from the shoulder to the knee. These changes were made with the goal of enhancing pace of play and simplifying the previously complex areas of the rulebook. However, there was one specific rule change that also contributed to making the game easier.
As part of the 2019 rules overhaul, golfers were now allowed to fix most imperfections on the putting greens, which was previously not permitted. The updated version of the rulebook allowed for the fixing of ball marks, old hole plugs, spike marks, indentations from clubs or flagsticks, as well as damage caused by animals.
You may wonder, why is this rule change a big deal? While it may not appear significant at first, even the tiniest imperfections on the putting green can greatly affect the outcome of your putt.
The Impact of Spike Marks
Spike marks are the most common imperfections you’ll encounter on the greens. Although the marks left by golfers’ shoes may seem minuscule, their impact on making a successful putt can be substantial.
Recently, while scrolling through Instagram, I stumbled upon the video above from Cody Karoses, and I found it absolutely fascinating. While I’ve always known that spike marks have an impact on putts, seeing an A/B Test demonstration of this phenomenon was eye-opening.
In the video, the first few putts coming off the rail display ideal speed and find the bottom of the cup seamlessly. However, when Karoses unintentionally steps on his line, the putt’s trajectory changes dramatically. Instead of rolling right into the cup, the balls lose speed and fall a few inches short.
Admittedly, this video isn’t a perfect scientific experiment; nevertheless, it provides us with valuable insights into how spike marks influence putts. Hence, the next time you find yourself on the greens, pay extra attention to any turf imperfections obstructing your path to the hole. Taking the time to fix these imperfections could very well be the difference between a missed putt and a successful one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What do spike marks refer to?
Spike marks are the indentations left on putting greens by golfers’ shoes.
Can spike marks affect the outcome of a putt?
Yes, even tiny spike marks can significantly impact the trajectory and speed of a putt, potentially causing it to miss the hole.
How were spike marks addressed in the updated Rules of Golf?
The 2019 rules overhaul made it legal for golfers to fix most imperfections on the greens, including spike marks, ball marks, damage from clubs or flagsticks, and animal-caused damage.
How can golfers mitigate the impact of spike marks on their putts?
By taking the time to carefully fix any spike marks or other turf imperfections in their putting line, golfers can improve their chances of making successful putts.
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