Distance: R&A, USGA Specify “Areas of Interest” While Opening Door To Innovation

Seeking to reduce the influence of extreme yardage and restore skill, a 6-month comment period begins. A "Model Local Rule" option for drivers and tougher ball testing may cause the most debate.

The R&A and USGA have released “refined areas of interest and research” on hitting distance. A September deadline has been set for “stakeholders” to reply.

In specifying potential changes to golf bal…