Video Reviews In Golf - Yes or No?

The R&A and USGA have recently issued a new Decision on the Rules of Golf to limit the use of video evidence in the game, with immediate effect. This refers to evidence that could not be seen with the 'naked eye' as well as when players use their 'reasonable judgement' when applying the rules.

All of this comes after Lexi Thompson was penalised four strokes in a recent major after a TV viewer contacted the LPGA to inform them that Lexi hadn't correctly replaced her ball on the putting green the previous day. Thompson was two clear when handed the four-shot penalty on the 12th hole in her final round, eventually going on to lose in a playoff.

The use of video technology has been fully embraced in several sports, with the likes of tennis and cricket utilising everything that's on offer. But when it comes to people at home calling in and affecting the outcome of an event, is that a step too far?

Have your say by entering our poll here. 

 

Leeds Cup Joy For Ramsden

Miichael Ramsden came up on the rails with four birdies in the last eight holes to leapfrog the field on route to winning the Leeds Cup at Cobble Hall. The 41-year-old Renishaw Park professional attributed part of his success to former winners, fellow Yorkshireman John Wells, from Snainton Golf Centre, and Carden Park's Garry Houston.

"It was a tough day and I had a tough start," he revealed after posting scores of 67 and 65 for a four-under-par total. "But linking up with two great players was a big help and I just pushed through on the back nine". It made up for the disappointment of losing in a play-off in the James Brearley Open in Blackpool last year. "It's been my goal in PGA North to get a trophy under my belt," admitted Ramsden as he cradled the iconic Leeds Cup, professional golf's oldest trophy dating from 1902. Ramsden, who by an extraordinary coincidence shared the same name as the sponsors who came on board this year, is a club pro through and through which means his playing schedule is limited. He counts as his friends Lee Westwood, from his home town Worksop, and Mark Foster and considers himself fortunate to know 2016 Masters champion Danny Willett with whom he spent four years when he was a youngster. "I still keep in touch Lee. I watched him a lot and I realised I'd never be as good as him so I chose a different path. It turned out to be the right one," he added.

Houston, meanwhile, finished runner-up two shots off the pace.

Leading scores;

• First place - Michael Ramsden (Renishaw Park) 67 65; 134
• Second place - Garry Houston (Carden Park) 65 69; 136
• Third place - Robert Booth (Crosland Heath) 68 68, 136.
• Fourth place -Ryan O'Neill (Penwortham) 67 69, 136.