I've got a different take from a lot on the issue of the ERC. It reminds me of the Campaign Finance Reform package McCain has been crying about for months. Like McCain those shooting at Callawy are firing their ammunition in the wrong direction.
If politicians are selling out to special interests, it is the duty of those citizens to throw the bum out. It is a sad day when free speech is restricted because politicians are corrupt.
Callaway developed a product which is illegal in North America ONLY. In the rest of the world the club is LEGAL. If Joe Blow wants one he can buy one, but he can't use it in USGA sanctioned tournaments or handicap rounds. If people do use them, then they are cheaters. Isn't the bedrock of this game about honesty and integrity? About calling a penalty even when nobody else sees it? If you don't want to wager or play with such people, then don't, otherwise who cares?
If the guy who buys the ERC is only playing for fun and this gives him more enjoyment, who is he or she hurting? Nobody... actually the game BENEFITS by having someone enjoy their golf more (even if it only a placebo... which it is in the hands of the average golfer).
REAIMING THE GUNS.
I find the USGA and R&A's mixed signal on the ERC worthy of some major league carping. You want to talk about dropping the ball and leaders who can't get their acts together... how about those at the USGA and R&A?
How about a bigger issue... the BALL? As the game has evolved we hear nary a word on rolling the ball back, only a feeling that the USGA are timid little mice afraid of getting sued. Who's money is it they would have to pony up anyway (if they lost)? Who are they supposed to be representing? The vast majority of golf clubs which span the globe, and the history and traditions of the game.
There they are, the glorious protectors of the game, collecting dues from clubs throughout the land, throughout the world and are afraid to plant their feet and make a stand... a stand which would restore some meaning to the game... a stand which would protect the game. Where is their spine?
Callaway isn't the problem. Gary Player isn't the problem. A ball called Rule 35 isn't the problem (I find it funny). The problem is leadership.
Who may I ask is at the helm steering this Royal & Ancient ship to safe waters, preserving the vessel so it can continue to provide a semblance of the game of even 25 years ago instead of modern rocket-ball and putting contests? That job isn't Callaway's or any other manufacturers and it's crazy to think any of them would take up that role. Competition has brought the manufacturers to this point (and boy do we enjoy fantastic equipent even compared to 15 years ago), and to go backwards voluntarily would be corporate suicide.
Everytime you hear a slam on Callaway, turn your attention to the USGA and R&A. They are supposed to be defending/protecting this great game. Instead courses like Augusta get run through the shredder because these Ruling /Governing Bodies have failed to act.