Tim's Question Regarding Practice Ranges

[Adam_F_Collins]

In light of my friend Tim's difficulty posting, he's asked me to post this question:

"With regards to the Mickelson/Bones towel placement incident, I would be interested in seeing some discussion on the architecture of the driving range at golf courses or practise facilites.  To me most of the ranges are not functional for the better class of golfer.  We have some ranges that are just flat fields, and some that have practise greens, often at weird angles to the hitting stations.

To me, my goal is primarily to be able to hit irons to a target in the distance and be able to discern the distance the shot has gone.  There's no need for the target to be a raised green -- a simple colour change (green dye?) would be sufficient.  The critical thing though is to be able to tell how far I've hit the ball -- carry and overall distance.  What I'd like to see is perhaps a white line at 20 yard intervals, with interspersed different-colored lines at 5, 10 and 15 in between.  These lines would be parallel to the hitting stations. (possibly curved to match)

For driving, a way to envisage a line, and a fairway width would be nice.  This could be done with poles at the end of the range. (Perhaps some with flags).

It should not be necessary to set up at any angle other than straight ahead.  Targets at angles to the hitting station just invite problems with alignment.

I don't think the USGA gives any guidance in this area.  Am I wrong?  Why shouldn't it?"

So there it is.

[Michael Moore]

I can see not knowing how far you have hit a shot.

I can't see not knowing how straight you have hit a shot.

[Allan Hutton]

I'd like to see areas with untended, and rough length grasses.  I seem to spend so much more time in the long stuff, than on the short stuff, I should be allowed to practice these shots at the range.

A few areas with sloping lies, would also be of interest.  Why are these not included in most driving ranges? Oversight or lack of will?

Addition, perhaps with hindsight I should spend more time on the short grass, practicing these shots, thus I'd spend a little less time on the course in the long stuff....