Not Golf= FLOGTON

It's no secret that fewer people are playing golf. More golf courses are closing than opening. Opinions for the downturn vary from "it's the economy" to a simple change in demographics. But some are wondering if the rules of the game are part of the problem. Enter Flogton (not golf spelled backwards).

Flogtonites argue that the game needs an overhaul to increase its appeal to younger players used to fast-paced video games, those with less than stellar athletic abilities, and an aging population of golfers who can't quite hit the ball as hard as they used to. They argue that alternative golf formats will bring more players onto the courses.

You can hear the purists grinding their teeth. Have no fear. There would still be rules. Different rules. The goal is not to replace PGA golf but to expand the golf possibilities. Flogtonites point out that skiing traditionalist resisted the addition of snowboarding to their sport. They think most flogtonites would eventually become regular golf game players as their skills improved. Besides, everyone knows that out in the real world, golfers have been known to modify the game's rules just a little bit......

One proposed change would have players follow USGA rules of play but allow souped-up balls and clubs. More radical proposals would change the rules thoroughly, legalizing one mulligan per hole, allowing 6-foot bumps to evade trees and other obstacles, and requiring a second shot from a bunker to be thrown. Totally revamped golf would be aimed at beginners to make the game easier for those just learning to play. Social changes would include loosening up of dress codes and allowing trash-talking.

Most interesting is the possibility of allowing Super Golf balls capable of correcting player shortcomings. Polora Golf is about to introduce a non-conforming ball later in 2011 that it claims will self-correct up to 90% of a slice or hook. The AGA thinks technology could add a 25% increase to the average golfer's drive and double the amount of backspin on wedge shots hit into greens. Of course, if everyone has access to the same new technology, the playing field will level off again....

For more about Project Flogton see http://www.flogton.com/

Learn more about Western NC and the Lake Lure area at http://www.DiscoverLakeLure.com