In the latest episode of GOLF Originals featuring renowned journalist Michael Bamberger, the CEO of the USGA, Mike Whan, sheds light on the process of making rule changes at the highest level of the game.
Michael Bamberger starts off by emphasizing the unbeatable combination of drive and joy in life, sharing his admiration for Mike Whan and his embodiment of these qualities.
Whan, who took on the role of USGA CEO in 2021, is known for his fun and dynamic personality. As Bamberger notes, having someone with such an engaging presence in the governing body’s most front-facing role is crucial.
The setting for their discussion was Palm Valley Golf Club in Ponte Vedra Beach, where they enjoyed a bargain tee time at just $18. Accompanying them was Louise, a retired schoolteacher who frequents Palm Valley.
During their conversation on the course, Bamberger delves into Whan’s early life, career, and his previous roles as LPGA Commissioner and now USGA CEO. At one point, Bamberger asks Whan about his thoughts on rule changes in golf.
Whan chooses not to provide a specific rule he would change but offers insight into the process behind major rule amendments at the highest level of the game.
“I had this conversation with a PGA Tour player once, and he said, ‘You know, if we did rules’ and I said, ‘Yeah, curious, if you did rules, what would you do?’” Whan said. “And he goes, ‘What do you mean?’ I said, ‘Well, you’d probably bring together talented rules people from all over, right? LPGA, PGA, Korn Ferry, and then you’d have some players there.’ He was, ‘Yeah, that’s what we do.’ And I think, ‘That’s what we do.’ I said that we don’t sit in a room with four USGA people and make a rule. We’ve got people from all different tours on that, people from all different parts of the world.
“And it is pretty awe-inspiring to sit in and listen to the process,” Whan continued. “Because people think about a rule change and don’t think about the implications of the other parts of the game, and they do. They’ve walked through it all.”
Whan explains how the process involves collaboration and contributions from talented rules experts across various tours and regions, transcending the boundaries of the USGA. This inclusive approach ensures a thorough examination of all aspects and implications of potential rule changes.
The conversation takes an interesting turn when Bamberger suggests his own rule change – making white out-of-bounds stakes play like red-stakes lateral hazards instead of enforcing stroke and distance penalties.
Whan responds by highlighting the importance of avoiding any unfair advantage resulting from this type of rule change. He mentions the concern that players might intentionally take aggressive lines on a hole, knowing that the penalty for an errant shot won’t be too severe.
To enjoy the full episode of GOLF Originals and hear more from Bamberger and Whan, including insights on the most challenging aspects of Whan’s role as USGA CEO, you can watch it on your preferred platform.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Who is Mike Whan?
Mike Whan is the CEO of the USGA since 2021. He previously served as the LPGA Commissioner.
What role does Mike Whan play in the USGA?
Mike Whan is the CEO of the USGA, the governing body for golf in the United States. As CEO, he holds the most front-facing role in the organization.
How are rule changes made in golf?
Rule changes in golf involve collaboration and input from talented rules experts across various tours, including the LPGA, PGA, and Korn Ferry. The goal is to consider the implications of potential rule changes on the entire game and its different aspects.
What is the concern with changing out-of-bounds rules to play like lateral hazards?
The concern with changing out-of-bounds rules to play like lateral hazards is the possibility of creating an unfair advantage for players. If the penalty for hitting out-of-bounds is not severe, players may intentionally take more aggressive lines on a hole, potentially gaining an advantage.
Where can I watch the full episode of GOLF Originals?
You can watch the full episode of GOLF Originals featuring Michael Bamberger and Mike Whan on various platforms. Check your preferred streaming service or visit the GOLF Originals website for more information.
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