Over the recent months, since the new golf rules were introduced, we have noticed the condition of the golf hole deteriorating throughout the day. We believe there is a number of factors relating to this issue:
- Golfers leaning into the hole and touching the sides of the turf whilst picking out their ball.
- Sticking the ball retriever, which sits on the end of the putter, between the flagstick and cup.
- Leaving multiple balls inside the hole while playing partners putt out.
All of these things may relate to the hole being damaged.
We will be trialling two devices, which will catch the ball and allow the flag stick to be removed with the ball remaining on the device.
This device will help remove the ball without bending down or touching the hole.
We would ask that you always remove the pin prior to picking your ball from the cup, and do not use the putter retriever which sits on the end of your putter grip, whilst the flag is in the hole.
The new devices should prevent the need to do any of the above. Simply remove the flag stick and the ball will come out without the need for bending your back or touching the hole.
The two devices will be trialled from tomorrow. Your support and feedback would be greatly appreciated.
We would like to thank MVGC member Graham Morley, who has spent a considerable amount of time designing this device. The second device which is blue, was made by the green staff from an old putting green retriever.
