CLASH OF DATES IN GOLF WORLD.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18057, 18 January 1927, Page 4

CLASH OF DATES IN GOLF WORLD.

AMERICANS’ ACTION CAUSES SENSATION. (Special to the “ Star.") LONDON, December 0. An unfortunate position has been created in golf, owing to the American authorities having chosen the I same date for their championship as had been selected for the British event. St Andrew’s are frankly astonished, and it is understood that it is not thei'r intention to attempt to make any fresh arrangements, by which the clashing of the two chief fivtures of the world's golf may be avoided. No reply in fact will be made, but it is felt that the American authorities have acted deliberately, and in effect have been pleased to say: “The British championship is no longer of any importance so far as wc are concerned." It may be remembered that these were the sentiments expressed by Hagen after last year's championship, which was won by Bobbie Jones, and in which the British players were seen to such poor advantage. It is feared that the relationship between America and St Andrew’s may now become a little strained. There have been occasions when the players in the new golfing world have not been prepared to accept the rule of St Andrews, and more than once they have made conditions to suit themselves. They did this when they abolished the stymie—oly, after a short experience, to*’restore it. Many attmpts have also been made to introduce freak clubs with steel and cane shafts and ribbed and punched iron heads. On these matters St Andrew's have never sought to dictate to them, but it is significant that eventually America in most instances has adopted the British point of view. During the past summer there were long discussions between* representatives of the two countries on the question of the ball, and an American was elected for the first time to the Rules of Golf Committee, the authority' which settles all points concerned with the playing of the game. Indeed, there seemed to be agreement on all essential matters, and the action which has been tken over the championship cannot be explained or understood.