The slow pace on the major golf tours has become a growing topic of discussion in recent years, with players preparing for shots in what can seem like an eternity. Despite it being the world elite playing, an 18-hole round for a three-ball can take up to six hours in the worst case.
Far too much, most people would think.
And now the women's LPGA tour is taking action.
"As a global sport and entertainment, LPGA has conducted a thorough review of the current policy on playing pace, to evaluate and address an issue that has been a source of frustration for both players and fans", says LPGA's Vicki Goetze-Ackerman in a statement.
LPGA is tightening the rules, among other things, for when fines and penalty strokes can be imposed. A player who is timed and takes 6-15 seconds too long before a shot can be penalized with a penalty stroke, and at 16 seconds or more, the penalty will be two strokes instead.
"Our overall goal is to improve the playing pace on the tour. These updates are a clear step towards creating a more efficient and enjoyable competitive environment."
The new rules come into effect at the end of March.
