Technological War of Words

The most controversial debate of the moment looks to take place during the Seminar Programme of Golf Europe 2001 in Munich.

Technological advances in the manufacture of both clubs and balls is claimed to be having a negative impact on course design, as the ability to send a tee shot off into the far distances, makes hazards, well, non-hazardous.

Taking part in the debate will be Valderrama course owner and design expert, Jaime-Ortiz Patiño and Frank Thomas, former Technical Director of the USGA.

Patiño, who is also president of the PGA of Europe, has called for a ban on further advances in golf ball technology. Mr Thomas enthusiastically opposes this view.

Both manufacturers and course designers will watch with interest, what is sure to be a passionate discussion.