A Guide to Night Golf
A Guide to Night Golf
It occurred to me on Sunday that there were several enhancements that could be made to the night golfing experience. It had always seemed to me that the entire experience favored those competitors who had access to technology such as extremely sensitive cameras. Some of these enhancements are not new - in fact, many had occurred over 50 years ago, when I was in the company of my brother Tom - when we had to complete 72 holes in Dearborn (Mich) at the Country Club, with fading light threatening to cut the day short.
The day had begun early with the mist still shrouding the links. We were about to take the few final shots of our fourth round during Monday caddie day. And now the night was setting in - it was darker than those final rounds that Rickie, Phil, and Rory had played. We adapted, but it was touch and go. And given the reduced speed at which rounds are played today, it quickly became apparent to me that professional golf could do with some illumination. So, I gave the matter some thought in the name of making the game even more popular - and adding to the coffers of the many darkened courses.
So here are some ideas to make those sunset finishes easier on everyone.
1. The Twilight Gimme
This is, in essence, a simple fix. At a Major, a referee is present (one would assume that a firm of accountants or major law firm would be keen to sponsor such a person). The object would be time-saving 'gimmes'. Turn to a top earner (like Phil) and simply say 'you're good enough, let's pick up the pace.' Duf, that is something we'd love to see. This is not original, Major League Baseball has received a suggestion that speeding things up by eliminating pitches involved in intentional walks might be an idea. The pitch would be replaced by an invitation towards first base. In tournaments where there are only two players left who could win the referee could opt for the Good/Good option.
2. The "A Ball" Rule
This is related to the one-ball rule that already exists. This ruling allows a player (who is facing unfair limitations due to darkness) to make use of any ball he spots in the area where his ball has landed. It cannot however belong to one of his opponents. I have found this a very welcome addition to the rules over the years. it could present challenges when it comes to the area of endorsements when used at a pro level - but seriously, what you don't know can't really hurt you - and it is dark.
3. Nitelife Illumination
A solar-sensitive siren is required. when that sounds players replace their balls with glowing Nitelife versions. Officials (or that referee) attach glowsticks to the flags. The rollover now allows players to conclude their rounds at a far more leisurely pace. Pre-shot routines are not hurried - and the attractiveness of the game is enhanced via the 'cool' factor. A friend and I competed in a 'Nightlife' game (only to be relegated to last place for the sin of playing the course of the day prior to the kick-off of the evening competition). I have a plan to visit sn Antique roadshow events (or events most probably) to see if I can get my hands on a 'Net 30th Place' plaque - I assume they're quite rare.
4. Fairway-Adjacent Illuminated Corporate Signs
One idea would be 'Flickers by GE.' The European Tour already has tasteful billboards lining trees (and the rough) Of course, the U.S. version would be backlit and provide some much welcome light as sunset approaches. 'Slow it down to a leisurely pace folks, thanks to Flickers'. Apple or Android could also provide players with phones - featuring a flashlight. Those final holes would become a festive treat for young and old.
We all like to finish those things that we start - but in golf, (currently) it's sometimes not possible. Shouldn't gold reflect life? This is our program's last call. PIcky, uptight rules experts may very well veto some of these suggestions. And no pro wants their schedule to be messed up. Sponsors have paid millions to get the tournament off the ground - so what's wrong with the 'One More Hole Rule?' Simplicity itself - If two (or more) leading competitors are within a couple of shots of the lead, the committee can invoke the 'One More Hole Rule'. Play a final hole (irrespective of which hole it is). Pay off your bets (or hit the winners podium - and still have time for dinner and drinks. The tab is on Rory.
If you’re interested you can find supplies for your night golf tournament here