JOURNAL AND TURF MANAGEMENT US«A JOURNAL AND TURF MANAGEMENT PUBLISHED BY THE UNITED STATES GOLF ASSOCIATION Permission to reprint articles herein is freely granted (unless specifically noted otherwise) provided credit is given to the USGA JOURNAL. Vol. IV, No. 1 April, 1951 Through the Green_____________________________________ _— 1 Selecting the Walker Cup Team__________ Joseph C. Dey. Jr. 5 Do You Want a Scandal? .................................... Harry Robert 10 The Champion Tee Totaler _______________________________ 11 The Mind Controls the Swing........................... Miss Louise Suggs 13 Tournaments for Your Club------------ ----------------------------------- 14 What the PGA Is____________________________ Horton Smith 16 “Golf House” as a Hall of Fame__________ ________________ 18 Championships -------------------------- ---------------------------------------- 21 The Referee: Decisions by the Rules of Golf Committee ........ 22 “No Local Rules” -------------------------- -- -------- --- Isaac B. Grainger 22 Turf Management: USGA Green Section They Aerify for Better Turf in Philadelphia . 25 -“Temporary Greens Today” W. H. Glover, James E. Thomas and Admiral Phillips. USN. Retired 27 Golf in Frosty Weather _ ____ ________________________________ 30 U-3 Bermudagrass _______ _ Marvin H. Ferguson and Fred V. Grau 31 It’s Your Honor: Letters ________ __________ ______________ 33 Published seven times a year in February, April, June, July, August, September and November by the UNITED STATES GOLF ASSOCIATION 40 East 38th St., New York 16, N. Y. Subscriptions; $2 a year. Single copies: 30c. Subscriptions, articles, photographs, and correspondence, except pertaining to Green Section matters, should be sent to the above address. Correspondence pertaining to Green Section matters should be addressed to USGA Green Section, Room 307, South Building, Plant industry Station, Beltsville, Md. Entered as second-class matter March 3, 1950, at the Post Office at New York, N. Y., under the Act of March 3, 1879. Edited by Joseph C. Dey, Jr. and Harry Robert. Advisory Committee—John D. Ames, Chairman; Isaac B. Grainger, Totton P. Heffelfinger, Curtis W. McGraw. All articles voluntarily contributed. Printed in U. S. A. USGA COMPETITIONS FOR 1951 Walker Cup Match: May 11 and 12 at Birkdale Golf Club, Birkdale, Southport, England. Men’s amateur teams, Great Britain vs. United States. (Dates entries close mean last dates for applications to reach USGA office, except in the case of the Amateur Public Links Championship. For possible exceptions in dates of Sectional Qualifying Rounds, see entry forms.) Championship Open Entries Close May 21 Sectional Qualifying Rounds June 4 Championship Dates June 14-15-16 Amat. Public Links “"June 1 Junior Amateur July 2 **June 15 Team: July 7 Indiv.: July 9-14 July 25-28 Girls' Junior Women's Amateur July 30 August 13-17 August 6 — August 20-25 Amateur August 13 August 28 Sept. 10-15 to 24 July 17 _ _ Venue Oakland Hills C. C., Birmingham, Mich. Brown Deer Park G.C., Milwaukee, Wis. Univ, of Illinois, Champaign, Ill. Onwentsia Club, Lake Forest, Ill. Town and Country C., St. Paul, Minn. Saucon Valley C. C., Bethlehem, Pa. •Entries close with Sectional Qualifying Chairmen. **Exac* date in each Section to be fixed by Sectional Chairmen. USGA JouR AL AND TuKr MANACEMENT: APRIL, 1951 I TH.ROUGH THE GREEN Are We Too Cluttered Up? Richard S. Tufts Honored J. H. Taylor, venerable British over the mounting profes­ is concerned of playing sional, expense to the problem is to reduce the of clubs in the bag to seven. In a letter to GOLF ILLUSTRATED, publica­ tion, he wrote: the game. His answer number British "Will you allow me to p�t forward a which would pomt the way suggestion towards reducing playing to its tradition progress? It is this: the heavy expense of golf which at present and arresting i� injurious its further "Will someone take the necessary a stroke competition in which seven clubs "I make means to organize among professionals only are allowed to be used? the confident ished by a long experience, scores returned as low as those made since the use of 14 clubs was leg alized, beyond reasonable number are redundant, nour­ that the doubt that half that prediction, thereby proving would be, on the average, an unnecessary to push infiiction . burden and a torturous or drag around. would, I'm sure, give "Such a contest illuminating hope to many who now view with dread the con-• tinuous and rising costs." and comforting This came to our notice just after we of Mr. Taylor's illustration Scotch professional, had a graphic point. We had just had a game in which one of our companions, Charles Thom, veteran played with only one club, a No. 2 iron. He used it off the tee, through the green, in the sand and on the putting surface. The results of us can obtain even with a highly specialized club for each particular shot. were a great deal better than most Richard S. Tufts A well-deserved honor was bestowed upon Richard S. Tufts, USGA Secretary, when the Golf Writers' chose him as winner of the William D. Richardson Trophy for the out• standing to golf in 1950. Besides contribution serving Memorial Association Com­ on the Executive Dick Tufts is Chairman of the and of the and is mittee, Green Section Committee Junior Championship a member of several At one time or another he has been chairmap in the Asso<:iation. more tirelessly for the game. No enthusiast works of almost every key committee Committee, other committees. Second in the poll was Mayor James Ohio, originator caddie tournament, Bob Hope. Dr. Fred B.Rhodes, of Columbus, of a national next was comedian V.Grau, Director of the USGA Green Section, placed fourth. Mr. Tufts and Dr. Grau work shoulder for better turf. to shoulder and � 2 USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 Unfrozen Asset During some basketball tournament games, teams tried to protect narrow leads in the closing minutes by “freezing” the ball. Without getting into any discus­ sion of the game, while “freezing” is per­ fectly permissible under basketball rules, it is unpopular with the fans, who like to see the underdog get a chance and regard “freezing” as less bold than the tactics Americans approve. There is, of course, no method by which a golfer or golf team can freeze a lead, under the Rules or otherwise. On the contrary, golfers who have tried to protect leads by using cautious tactics have generally come to grief as a result. The greatest players of the last generation, Jones, Hagen, Sarazen, Armour, Ouimet, Evans and such, never let up trying to win the next hole, no matter how far ahead they might be. The only way a player who is up can maintain that advantage is by continuing to stroke the ball to the best of his ability, exactly as he must do if he is down. Maybe it’s not important, but from the sporting point of view we find it another attractive feature of golf. Cups on Voyage The Walker Cup is not the only inter­ national trophy taking an ocean voyage this spring. Although the Curtis Cup is not in competition this year, it has gone overseas. This women’s amateur team trophy has been loaned for display in the National Sporting Trophies Exhi­ bition in London during the Festival of Britain, late April to October. The object is to raise funds for the National Sports Organizations of Britain. The Curtis Cup was competed for at Buffalo last year. Part of the British Team’s expenses were raised by inter­ ested Americans who formed a Pam Bar­ ton Day Committee. In the forefront of the group was Miss Margaret Curtis, one of the donors of the Cup, who now writes as follows: “From the point of view of friendly rivalry, the match could hardly have been finer. We wish every donor to the Fund could have seen the play. A nicer bunch of girls on both teams would be hard to find. The many associations and friends who contributed to the Fund added substantially to the success of the competition. “Besides the expenses at Buffalo, the Fund made it possible to give a bon voyage dinner-and-theatre party in New York and to add a souvenir present to each member of the British Team. There is a modest balance in our good-will bank account. The Committee hopes the donors will feel with them that its best use will be to accent hospitality again when the next team visits us.” Junior Association Before long we • can look to southern California not only for an increasing number of leading players among the younger set but for some promising ad­ ministrative material, too. The South­ ern California Junior Golf Association has been organized as a result of a meeting among the Southern California Golf Association, the Southern Califor­ nia Section of the PGA, and the South­ ern California Public Links Golf As­ sociation. The purposes, according to Harold A. Dawson, SCGA Executive Secretary, are: to promote junior golf activity in that area, to teach the Rules and etiquette of golf, to provide the opportunity for free golf instruction to juniors, to secure re­ duced rates for playing privileges and at driving ranges, and to establish handicap ratings on one basis for all juniors. A significant feature is that the as­ sociation is to be governed by the juniors themselves, with members of the cooperat­ ing associations acting only in an ad­ visory capacity. GOLFERS' EPITAPHS Here lie the remains of Joseph Smutts, Who conceded himself all four-foot putts. But this one time, without a doubt, Old Joseph has at last holed out. Improving his lie was a trick of Joe Stout, But Joe's lying now where he can't lift out. At the 19th hole Johnny Wiggs Took far too many practice swigs. —BARRIE PAYNE . Henry R. Smedley Claude C. Smith Robert Allen Smith E. J. Somerville Laurence Sovik George E. Speakman Richard H. Stackhouse Lou Staude Lewis M. Sterner F. Carroll Stille Charlie Strack George A. Street Mrs. Julius Stulman William A. Sullivan Bill Sutherland William C. Swayne Earle W. Sweigert George E. Swift William P. Swift H. R. Swisher T Michael J. Tartaglia Edwin A. Tennant, Jr. Thomas M. Thistle Norman E. Thomsen Lawrence J. Tobin John Toram, Jr, Nick Totilo W. W. Turner u Dr. John C. Ullery Alfred C. Ulmer w D. Stuart Walker Joseph H. Walter, Jr. Lloyd A. Walter Marvin "Bud" Ward Russell N. Ward Frank J. Warner Al Watrous J. C. Watson Richard W. Wells, Jr. E.. M. Welsh Stanley A. Welsh, Jr. Winston Wheeler Dr. Stephen T. Whelan Wiliiam W. Whitaker Bare ay White Barclay White, Jr. B. M. Wilde Henry Williams, Jr. W. Robert Willis William P. Woodroffe M. L. Worthington William W. Wotherspoon Donald E. Wright John Wudnoski Y Russell J. York C. Howie Young Kenneth C. Young z Joe Zarhardt Emery Zimmerman Eugene P. Zuspann CLUBS Aronimink Golf Club, Pa. The Beverly Country Club, III. Big Spring Golf Club, Ky. Birmingham Country Club, Mich. Brookville Country Club, N. Y. Chicago Golf Club, III. Country Club of Lincoln, Neb. The Creek, N. Y. Evansville Country Club, Ind. Fresh Meadow Country Club, N.Y. Grosse He Goif and Country Club, Mich. Hackensack Golf Club, N. J. Highland Country Club, Pa. Inverness Club, Ohio The Management and the Board of Governors of the Kenwood Golf and Country Club, Md. Locust Hill Country Club, N. Y. The Memphis Country Club, Tenn. Miami Shores Country Club, Fla. Milwaukee Country Club, Wis. North'and Country Club, Minn. Oak Terrace Country Club, Pa. Park Hill Country Club, Colo. Piping Rock Club, N. Y. Plandome Golf Club, N. Y. Riviera Country Club, Cal. The Savannah Golf Club, Ga. Sea Island Golf Club, Ga. Shoreacres, III. Sparrows Point Country Club, Md. Stanford University Department of Physical Education and Athletics, Cal. Starmount Forest Country Club, N. C. Tamarack Country Club, Conn. United Shoe Machinery Athletic Association—Golf Division, Mass. Upper Montclair Country Club, N. J. Westmoreland Country Club, III. Wollaston Golf Club, Mass. ASSOCIATIONS Buffalo District Golf Association Eastern New York Golf Association Maryland State Golf Association Memphis Golf Association Midwest Regional Turf Founda­ tion, Ind. Tennessee Golf Association Women's Eastern Golf Association In memory of Mrs. Sidney B. Kent by Women's Ohio State Goif Association OTHER Miller Chevrolet Auto Company, Atchison, Kans. USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 21 Championships Entrants, Take Care! Entrants in USGA Championships this year should be sure to send their entries to the USGA’s new address, which is: 40 East 38th St. New York 16, N. Y. Published closing dates for entries mean the last dates for applications to reach VSGA headquarters in “Golf House.” The time of postmark makes no difference; the time of receipt by the USGA is what counts. Entries sent to the USGA’s old address are apt to be delayed. Entries must be filed on USGA entry blanks, which contain the new address. Open Championship Thirty-one qualifying sections have been established for this year’s Open Championship. The 36-hole sectional tryouts will be held Monday, June 4, except at Honolulu, where the date is Monday, May 21. Qualifying rounds in Grand Rapids, Salt Lake City and Milwaukee have been added to the usual schedule; there will be no elimination test in northeastern New York, one of the 1950 locations. Entries must reach the USGA office by 5 P.M. on Monday, May 21. The starting field will be 162 in the Championship proper at the Oakland Hills Country Club, Birmingham, Mich., near Detroit, June 14 through 16. When the Open was held at Oakland Hills in 1937, there was an all time record entry of 1,402 which has not been surpassed. Every professional returning a 72-hole score will receive a prize of at least $100. This feature was introduced in last year’s Golden Anniversary Open Championship. Total prize money for pros will be ap­ proximately $12,000. Chairman of the USGA Championship Committee is John D. Ames, Chicago. Girls' Junior The USGA Girls’ Junior Champion­ ship is to be played at the Onwentsia Club, Lake Forest, Ill., August 13 through 17. This completes the USGA’s 1951 schedule. 1952 Calendar In 1952 three of the six USGA Championships will be played on the Pacific Coast—the Amateur, the Women’s Amateur and the Girls’ Junior. The schedule follows: USGA COMPETITIONS FOR 1952 Curtis Cup Match — June 6 and 7 at Muirfield Golf Club, Muirfield, Scotland Women’s amateur teams, British Isles vs. United States. (Dates entries close mean last dates for applications to reach USGA office, except in the case of the Amateur Public Links Championship. For possible exceptions in dates of Sectional Qualifying Rounds, see entry forms.) Championship Open Entries Close May 19 Sectional Qualifying Rounds June 2 Championship Dates June 12-13-14 Amai. Public Links *May 29 Junior Amateur June 30 **June 15 to 21 July 15 Team: July 5 Indiv.: July 7-12 July 23-26 Amateur Girls' Junior July 21 Aug. 4 Women's Amateur Aug. 7 Aug. 5 Aug. 18-23 none none Aug. 18-22 Aug. 25-30 Venue Northwood Club, Dallas, Texas (not determined) Yale G. C., New Haven, Conn. Seattle G. C.t Seattle, Wash Monterev Peninsula C. C., Pebble Bch., Cal. Waverley C. C., Portland. Ore. ‘Entries close with Sectional Qualifying Chairmen. “Exact date in each section to be fixed by Sectional Chairmen 22 USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 TUP I? X XI XI Jy. XS X? XS XV XI XS Decisions by the USGA Rules of Golf Committee Example of symbols: "No. 51-1" means the first decision issued in 1951. "R.7(3)" means Section 3 of Rule 7 in the 1951 Rules of Golf. "NO LOCAL RULES" By ISAAC B. GRAINGER USGA Vice-President and Chairman of Rules of Golf Committee “No Local Rules.” The above expression on a club score card is a “mark of distinction” for that club. Why? Well, first, there is the recog­ nition that the game would not be golf without uniform Rules. Then there is the acknowledgment that the Rules of Golf represent the accumulated experience and considered views over a long period of many persons devoted to the game’s best interest, with fair play and sports­ manship always the keynote. What would be a greater compliment to the character of a course than to give notice that its construction conformed entirely to the pattern set by the general Rules? But the reader may also ask if local rules are not essential in many cases. The answer is — not very often. Having been developed from experience, the Rules as written are practical and will apply to almost every known condition. There are very few courses in the United States on which the Rules cannot be invoked with fairness and with the orig­ inal intent preserved. Local adaptations usually have failed to pass the test of time and very often violate the basic Rules. The only justification for a local rule is the impossibility of carrying out the provisions or intent of the basic Rules. It is certainly not the substitution of a local committee’s judgment for that of a long succession of USGA committees, which have studied almost every con­ ceivable situation. These USGA committees have been in a position to scrutinize the adaptability of all of the Rules under varied condi­ tions through requests for interpretation which have been made over the years. It would take little imagination to realize how chaotic the game would become if each club committee decided that certain Rules were either too strict or liberal and amended them accordingly by local edict. The character of the game would change so greatly from course to course that a uniform set of * Rules would be useless, and the average player would be severely burdened by these additional handicaps, except at his home club. It is fully realized that there are many clubs at which local rules are at variance with USGA Rules, despite agreement on the part of USGA member clubs, among other things, to uphold the Rules of the Association. A typical case of confusion is demonstrated by the following request for guidance from a member of a USGA member club: No. 514. R. 7(4), 9. RLR Q: There is a difference of opinion in my club between the Rules of Golf Committee and the Green Committee as to how far a club, which is a member of the USGA, may go in adoption of local rules. Our Green Committee, over the objections of our Rules of Golf Committee, adopted the following local rules applying to match play: (1) Stakes supporting trees. If a player’s stroke be interfered with by such a stake striped in red, the ball may be lifted and dropped without penalty; however, if the stake is not so painted, it must be played as it lies or lifted and dropped with a penalty of one stroke. (2) Protective screens. There are two screens on our course protecting players who are on our 11th and 12th fairways. The Green Com­ USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 23 mittee has caused signs to be posted thereon reading: “If stroke interfered with, lift and drop within 2 club lengths. Penalty 1 stroke.” Our Rules of Golf Committee has objected, as both local rules are not in conformity with Rule 7(4) for artificial obstructions or Rule 8 for unplayable lie. (3) To the right of our 15th fairway, an extensive area on which play has always been permitted is now being leveled. This area, which is factually ground under repair, is being treated by the Green Committee as follows: Part of the area is marked with stakes and declared “Out of Bounds.” Part is posted “Ground Under Repair.” Our Rules of Golf Committee has objected on the grounds that all of the area is properly “Ground Under Repair,” that designating part of it as “Out of Bounds” and part “Ground Under Repair” violates not only the Rules but causes confusion as it is impossible to determine where one ends and the other begins. Am I correct in stating that this local rule also violates Rule 9, which specifically provides that ground under repair may not be included in “out of bounds”? It was the unanimous opinion of the mem­ bers of our Rules Committee that such actions violate the Rules and the spirit of the game, result in confusion amongst the players, invite ridicule by visiting players who know their rights, and result in improper and unfair handicapping. The latter applies particularly when our members compete in interclub handi­ cap tournaments with players whose handicaps have been arrived at with proper observance of the Rules. Our Green Committee takes the position that there is no limit as to how far a club may go in adopting its own local rules and that their local rules take precedence over USGA even though such local rules go far beyond the limitations and recommendations of the USGA. Our Board of Directors supported the posi­ tion taken by our Green Committee; and our Rules Committee, with myself as Chairman, thereupon resigned. The members of my Rules Committee would like to have your comments as to whether we were justified in maintaining our firm position. If we are properly supported by you, we wish to present this fact to our Board with the hope that the authority for drawing local rules and interpreting USGA Rules may be vested in a Rules of Golf Committee composed of mem­ bers who not only know the Rules but are familiar with the decisions of your body, of which we feel we are indirectly a part. Any construction of the duties of a Green Committee that would allow such a committee to frame the above or other similar local rules would, in my opinion, make our USGA Rules a farce and would result in playing a game which is not golf but an individual interpre­ tation thereof. Questions by Al Rabin Los Angeles, Cal. The USGA answered this request by outlining the viewpoint expressed in the opening paragraphs of this article, with the following further comments: It is recognized that local rules are some­ times necessary. That is why a section of the Rules of Golf is devoted to “Recommendations for Local Rules.” However, local rules should not run counter to the spirit behind the basic Rules. USGA Member Clubs not only can benefit from the practical value of the well-tried Rules of Golf but they should observe them for the general good of the game. Acceptance of USGA membership binds a Member Club to uphold the Constitution, By-Laws and other rules of the Association. The USGA does not attempt to penalize a club for failing to observe the spirit of the Rules of Golf. As a matter of fact, such club penalizes itself by its own failure to take advantage of the Rules as written. The USGA requests all Member Clubs to uphold the Rules of Golf. As for the respective duties of a club green committee and a club rules of golf committee, their work should be defined by the authority which created them. f As for the particular local rules in the question, we offer the following comment: (1) Stakes supporting trees. It is not clear why your local rule gives relief without penalty from some stakes and not others. Under the Rules of Golf, all such stakes are artificial obstructions and a player is entitled to free relief under Rule 7(4). (2) Protective screens within a course are artificial obstructions, and a player is entitled to free relief under Rule 7(4). (3) The Rules of Golf leave it up to the local authorities to determine boundaries — see Rule 9, Definition, which provides that out of bounds is “ground on which play is pro­ hibited, but it does not include ground under repair.” Artificial Obstruction: Repeated Relief No. 50-107. Def. 3; R. 1(3), 7(4), 10(5b) Q 1: Under Rule 7 having to do with arti­ ficial obstructions, if a player’s ball lie within two club-lengths of any such obstruction which is immovable, the ball may be lifted and dropped at the nearest point not nearer the hole which permits the player to take his stance without interference by the obstruction. When a ball so dropped has rolled back to approxi­ mately its former position, may the player relift and redrop the ball? A 1: Yes, if the ball’s new position satisfies the conditions in Rule 7(4). In order for the player to obtain relief, the obstruction must interfere with the player’s backward or forward swing or his stance. In such a case, the ball 24 USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 may be dropped within two club-lengths of that point of the obstruction nearest where the ball originally lay, and must come to rest not nearer the hole. Q 2: How many times may this be done? A 2: There is no specified limit. However, if the configuration of the ground is the cause and several attempts at dropping always fail to bring relief, the ball may be placed—see Rules 10 (5b) and 1(3). Sam W. Reynolds Omaha, Neb. Ball on Lip of Hole: Brief Delay No. 50-112. R. 2(3), 3(2), 11 (3c) 12 (3, 4d, 5), 18(7, 9) Q: I would appreciate ruling about ball on lip of cup. How long should you wait? Also, what is definite procedure about conceding and who has to pick the ball up, match play and medal play? Irwin E. Schloss Baltimore, Md. A: (A) In match play, Rule 18(9) entitles player to “a momentary delay” to determine whether or not his ball is at rest on the lip of the cup. There is no specified time limit — it is a question of fact as to whether the ball is at rest. Since the player incurs a penalty under Rule 12(3) if he putts while his ball is moving, he should be given the benefit of any doubt, but he must not delay play in contravention of Rule 2(3). When a player has not holed out, Rule 18(7) precludes him from conceding his opponent’s putt unless the opponent’s ball is within six inches of the hole. In the latter circumstance, the player may ask his opponent to lift his ball and concede the next stroke. The player should not knock away his opponent’s ball: see Rule 12(5). When a player has holed out, he may con­ cede his opponent’s putt from any distance: see Rule 18(9). (B) In stroke play, it is not permissible to concede a fellow competitor’s putt. Each competitor is responsible to the entire field to insure that his fellow competitor completes the stipulated round: see Rule 3(2). Rule 12(4d) provides: “If a competitor’s ball which is at rest be moved by another competitor or his caddie or forecaddie or his clubs or his ball, the ball shall be replaced.” Rule 11 (3c) pro­ vides: “If a competitor or his caddie pick up his ball before it is holed out (except as per­ mitted by the Rules), he shall, before he has struck off from the next teeing ground, or, in the case of the last hole of the round, before he has left the putting green, be permitted to replace the ball under penalty of two strokes.” Dropping Ball Behind Wafer Hazard drops back 20 yards on a level grassy lie. Is it permissible to drop farther back than your original lie? (b) I base my claim that he cannot on Rule 17(2) (c). He bases his claim that he can on the last 2 lines on page 41 in the 1950 Rules book. Did not that rule prior to 1936 read: “There is no limitation as to how far behind a hazard a ball shall be dropped — within its line of flight.”? Al: (a) Yes, provided the player is proceed­ ing under Rule 17 (2a or b). (b) No. The Rule governing a ball in a water hazard prior to 1936 contained the fol­ lowing Note: “There is no limitation as to how far behind a hazard a ball may be dropped.” Q 2: If a player play his ball from a lie within a water hazard and fail to get out, may he drop ball back of hazard with penalty stroke? If so, where would he properly drop it? A 2: Yes. He keeps the point at which the ball lay in the hazard, after his unsuccessful stroke, between him and the hole. The basic principle of keeping the hazard between the player and the hole when he drops is main­ tained and equity served by the foregoing determination. Ball Wrongly Assumed in Wafer Hazard Q 3: A assumed her tee shot to be lost in a water hazard and, after searching for five minutes, dropped a ball back of hazard and played it onto the green. She then found her original ball on apron and proceeded to play out hole with it, over protest of fellow com­ petitor. The committee disqualified her, con­ tending that she was not entitled to play either ball but should have gone back to the tee from where her original ball was played and treated her original as a lost hall. Was our decision correct? A 3: Yes. A did not play the stipulated round as provided — see Rule 3 (Def., 2). A had no right to assume that her ball was lost in a water hazard. It is a question of fact whether a ball struck towards a water hazard is lost in the hazard or outside the hazard. Questions by: Mrs. G. C. Gourdeau ' Santa Monica, Cal. Removing Grass Blade from Ball No. 50-116. R. 2(1), 10(4) Q: In tournament play, a player removed a blade of grass from her ball on the putting green. She did not move her ball. We have not been able to find a rule on this. Edith M. Weismann Chicago, III. No. 50-115. R. 3(Def., 2) 17 (2a, b and c) QI: (a) A lies 2 on a road, three yards short of a water hazard. His third shot goes into the water hazard. With a penalty stroke he A: The player violated Rule 10(4) by clean­ ing the ball. The penalty is loss of hole in match play and two strokes in stroke play, under Rule 2(1). USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 25 — Better Turf for Better Golf TURF MANAGEMENT from the USGA Green Section Correspondence pertaining to Green Section matters should be addressed to: USGA Green Section, Room 307, South Building, Plant Industry Station, Beltsville, Md. THEY AERIFY FOR BETTER TURF IN PHILADELPHIA A contribution from the Philadelphia Association of Golf Course Superintendents (Written expressly for the USGA Journal at the Request of the USGA Green Section) Mechanical aeration of fairway turf started in the Philadelphia area in July, 1946, at the LuLu Temple Country Club. Aerification has since increased rapidly until it is now standard maintenance practice to aerify greens, tees and fair­ ways, more than once a year. Facts pertaining to aeration are limited but for three years members of the Philadel­ phia Association of Golf Course Super­ intendents have met annually to discuss and summarize their experiences with mechanical aeration. At their last meet­ ing they endeavored to determine the part aeration has played in efficient turf pro­ duction by answering the why, when, how, what and who. The summary pre­ pared for those present at the Conference is now shared with readers of the Journal. There was agreement that the intro­ duction of air into the soil, which always seems to stimulate root growth, was a leading factor influencing the aerifying of turf several times a season. As the root growth increases from the additional air, the turFs drought resistance increases. Also, that increased root growth produces a better playing turf with a cushion effect. Fertilizer and lime move more freely into the soil after aerifying, thereby giving greater return from the applica­ tion of these two materials. With lime and fertilizer moving to a greater depth in the soil, the root growth increases, which in turn produces more organic matter in the soil. Perennial grass con­ tinually grows new feeding roots during the growing season while the older roots decay into organic matter; this process is hastened by the movement of air and water in the soil. The thatched condition that keeps water from penetrating the soil is readily overcome by aerifying, which permits the water to reach the roots of the turf. It is the ability of the soil to take in the water and allow it to move freely down­ ward without the plants becoming water­ logged that makes ideal growing con­ ditions for grass. Aerifying and proper drainage are important factors in main­ taining the proper soil structure. Aerifying influences the water-holding capacity of the soil since it reduces the run-off. It is the openings made by the aerifier that allow heavy rainfall to enter the soil. 26 USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 The result secured in reducing soil compaction was thought by many to be one of the leading assets of using the aerifier. A statement was presented by Dr. R. B. Alderfer, of the Agronomy De­ partment of Pennsylvania State College, that the value of freezing and thawing for reducing soil compaction lasts only a short time each spring. For instance, golfers walking over the greens after heavy rainfall or irrigation will set back the improvement received from the winter’s freezing and thawing. There were expressions that the in­ creased oxygen content of the soil result­ ing from aerification reduces disease. Joe Valentine, of the Merion Golf Club, reported that the aerifying of all putting greens in November, 1949, when he was getting the course ready for the USGA Open Championship, was a decided factor in reducing disease throughout the 1950 season. Aerification is essential in any turf renovation program. It improves the soil condition and enables new seedings to become better established. Fall is the ideal time for aerifying but the discussion brought out the fact it can be done at any time of year. Soil conditions should be right for aerifying, and all were of the opinion there was little injury to the turf if the turf was making strong growth when it was done. An application of fertilizer about ten days before aerifying speeds recovery. Aerification should be done when it will least inconvenience the players. If aerification is done very early in the spring, when the grass is in the stage of changing from off color to green, players will hardly notice anything has been done. E. R. Steiniger, Pine Valley Golf Club, reported: “Fairways were aerified as a regular maintenance practice. We aeri­ fied throughout the season, about six or seven times this year. Play was not stopped at any time.” Art Twombley, Pelham Country Club, said: “At Pelham in ’49 there were three or four greens turning brown. Soil con­ ditions were poor and it seemed certain HOW TO OBTAIN GREEN SECTION SERVICES Advisory visits by USGA Green Section Staff members are available to USGA Member Clubs and Green Section Service Subscribers at $50 a day plus traveling and living expenses. Where two or more Clubs or Subscribers can be covered in one day, the fee to each is $25 and travel costs are shared. A written report is rendered to each. There are advantages if the Green Section representative inspects as many courses as pos­ sible while in a given area. Golf associations and greenkeepers' associations can help their interests by arranging for inspection of groups of courses in their areas. Those desiring advisory visits should make requests soon, as schedules for the season are now being arranged. Requests for visits should be addressed to: USGA Green Section Room 307, South Building Plant Industry Station Beltsville, Maryland. Advisory service by correspondence is avail­ able to Member Clubs and Service Subscribers at no cost. the greens would be lost. The greens were aerified even though the temperature was 95°. The greens were handled care­ fully afterward; syringed every four or five hours. Aerification is done any time of the year it is needed. The entire course was aerified three times this year. Some of the greens were aerified four or five times.” No Increase in Weeds Tees are important. Leonard Strong reported tees at Saucon Valley Country Club were aerified about every three weeks, starting in July. The question was raised about aerifica­ tion at the wrong time causing weeds. Ralph Engel, Extension Associate, New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, reported: “There has been no significant increase in .weeds because of aerifying in the three or four locations where we have studies in aerification.” Paul Weiss, Lehigh Country Club, commented: “Half of our practice fairway has been aerified^ spring, summer and fall^e^ch year, for the past four year§. (The <|ther half of the fairway has never fiepii aeri­ fied. Aerification is the only difference USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 27 in management. I can see no increase in weeds on the aerified half over the unaerified half.” In discussing the “how,” it was brought out that depth of cultivation should be as great as possible without unduly mar­ ring the surface. Even though the great­ est amount of compaction occurs near the surface, deep cultivation is needed to encourage deep root growth. When cultivating heavy soil for the first time, it is not always possible to obtain deep penetration. Increased cultivation depth can be obtained in succeeding aerifica­ tions. No special mechanical skill is needed to operate an aerifying tool, but the person who does should have an ap­ preciation of the job to be done and the results to be obtained. Practical work in aerifying is ahead of research. There are no prepared references to use as a guide in aerifying. Why, when and how to aerify are ques­ tions that can be answered only by ex­ perience and observation, with technical men pointing out the soil fundamentals involved. Golf course superintendents have had the most experience in aerify­ ing. The free exchange of their ex­ periences provides fundamental informa­ tion from which aerification programs, for other turf areas can be developed. Members of the Philadelphia Association appreciate the opportunity to pass along their ideas and look forward to hearing of the results obtained by others. "TEMPORARY GREENS TODAY" OR "COURSE CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE" A contribution from the Middle Atlantic Association of Greenkeepers working co-operatively with the USGA Green Section Staff. Prepared by W. H. Glover, James E. Thomas, and Admiral Phillips, USN, Retired. Do you recall when one of the above notices was posted on your bulletin board in the Golf Shop with similar signs on the first and on the tenth tees? It happens during the late winter season after a thaw when the greens are spongy. and wet, or it. could happen during the regular playing season after a very heavy rain. The Middle Atlantic Association of Greenkeepers held their February meet­ ing at the Plant Industry Station at Belts­ ville, Maryland. As the season had been one of frequent freezes and thaws, the need of closing the courses to play during such' period, especially the greens and tees, was a subject that came in for much lively discussion. At this gathering, green committee chairmen, greenkeepers and the staff of the USGA Green Section rep­ resented a cross section of golf organiza­ tions in the immediate vicinity. This group was in agreement with the general principle that alternate freezing and thawing, along with intermittent wet­ ting and drying of the soil, produce a soil of proper tilth and crumb structure. When these conditions occur, contraction and expansion take place and the resulting pressure separates the soil particles and fills the top layer of the earth’s surface with numerous pore spaces. This is one of nature’s ways and means of cultivat­ ing the soil under turf. Through such action the proper balance of air, moisture and food can be regulated and made available to plants so they are able to live and survive. To he brief, they can breathe, eat and drink. The arch enemy of everything good on a putting green is poor drainage. Excess water causes the roots of plants to suf­ focate and drown. When there is no oxygen available to permit the roots to breathe, the roots cannot absorb water and thus food becomes difficult or im­ possible to obtain. How does golf affect the ideal playing conditions? It is very easy to explain. The foot traffic of players over a small 28 USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 NOT A LOST BALL — JUST INSPECTING MERION BLUEGRASS Ed Geary looking over a 60-acre field of Merion (B-27) Bluegrass grown for seed on his ranch near Klamath Falls, Ore. He was the first to produce commercial supplies of seed for this superior turf grass. area such as a putting green or a tee de­ velops surface compaction, especially when the soil is saturated. A compacted crust develops which prevents the easy flow of food and water and air into the lower soil regions where plant roots normally grow. Plant roots do not grow in soils where the natural channels and voids have been destroyed by the com­ pressing and crushing action of foot traf­ fic on soils which are too wet. Where there is no air there are no plant roots and thus there can be no turf. From the golfers’ viewpoint it may be a perfect day to indulge in the royal and ancient game. So, out to the golf course they go, only to find the course closed or that they must play temporary greens. At this point the greenkeeper and the pro may need sympathy — and perhaps the green committee, too, if any of its mem­ bers are present, because the bombard­ ment of “beefs” range from an insulting “Why” to “Who pays the freight in this club? Let’s get a greenkeeper who knows his business” and “That Green Commit­ tee is lousy—they ought to be kicked out.” Well, let’s face the facts. The green­ keeper is one of the best. He went around the course early that morning; examined the greens; advised the chairman; re­ ceived authority to close the course or to shift to temporary greens and gave instructions to post necessary notices. The chairman has every confidence in the greenkeeper and is ready to back him up to the hilt. Where does the authority to close a golf course to play exist? The first move should be initiated by the superintendent. He should explain to his immediate superior the need and reason for such action; the latter should authorize the move and acquaint the members with the facts. Such action might help to avert the wholesale loss of turf which occurred on many courses in the seasons of 1928 and again in 1949. Now let’s be sensible and try to con­ vince the fair-minded golfers why the USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 29 course should be closed. The majority of members have no desire whatsoever to injure the course unnecessarily and particularly to injure the greens. So, we begin by telling them walking on wet, soggy turf causes compaction of the soil and playing balls to soft wet greens tears the sod and leaves bad scars and bumpy greens. They understand the scar busi­ ness all right and also the bumpy putting, but an explanation of compaction and the effect it has on good golf is harder to explain. The simple truth is that com­ paction and good golf turf just don’t go together. The course is closed temporarily so the players can be assured of good playing conditions for the rest of the season. If the course is not closed under such unfavorable conditions, the greens may be injured to the point where it will be impossible to provide good playing conditions for the remainder of the play­ ing season. Thus, the wishes of a few may interfere with the pleasurable golf of the many later on. They're Grateful Later “Well, live and learn,” is the usual reaction of a reasonable member. An­ other says: “They’re playing at the X Club and several other courses — what about that?” The answer is simply this: Either they shouldn’t be playing, or else their drain­ age conditions are far superior to the course in question. If the turf on the other course is not wet and soggy it should be playable. If it is wet and soggy, they will pay the price, which is a bumpy, rough putting surface; frequent aerification and topdressing during the height of the season; or, in extreme cases, the rebuilding of the greens themselves. “Boy, am I glad we didn’t play!” is the invariable reply of those who really care. Recently a sports writer for a Washing­ ton, D.C., paper made a lengthy comment on this fact. One warm sunny day in February he had called all of the golf courses in the local area and had found that all but one were closed to play be­ cause the soil was too wet, in spite of the fact that it was a beautiful day for golf. It is extremely interesting to golf course maintenance men finally to see some positive results from an educational program which has been aimed at the best interest of golf and golfers. Our efforts finally are paying off. It must mean golf committees and golfers are recognizing the fact that because of highly variable climatic conditions, it is impossible to use golf course turf every day of the year in the Wash: ’’ton area and expect to have good turf surfaces at all times. The golfer pays the bill but no one but the golfer pays the price when a few permit their selfishness to inter­ fere with the established processes of nature and the rights of others. X FERTILIZER - SEED MIXTURES So many times we get the question, especially from homeowners: “How long should I wait after fertilizing before I can sow my lawn seed?” Our answer invariably is: “Why not mix them and put them on together?” Contrary to popular misconception, fertilizers do not burn lawn seeds. We have known of fertilizer-seed mixtures which laid in the bag for more than a year without damage. Storage was dry, of course. When a fertilizer-seed mixture is sown, the moisture in the soil starts at once to dissolve the fertilizer and to swell the seeds. By the time the seeds have sprouted (7 to 14 days) the fertilizer has been sufficiently dissolved not to damage the seedling plant. Naturally, if a great excess of fertilizer be used, there might be some damage but even that is unlikely. The extra bulk of the fertilizer helps the homeowner (or anyone) to distribute a small amount of seed more uniformly. One cemetery superintendent we know seeds some of our new improved grasses at the rate of four ounces of seed to the acre, mixed with fertilizer, to increase bulk and to provide stimulation for the seedlings. 30 USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 GOLF IN FROSTY WEATHER Abstract from “Sports Turf Bulletin,” No. 2 (New Issue), The Board of Greenkeeping Research, February, 1951. St. Ives Research Station, Bingley, Yorkshire, England Every golf club has its die-hard who will brave frozen fingers and frozen greens to attempt play under Arctic con­ ditions, when the course should be closed. Frost itself does not cause any ap­ preciable damage to turf and, indeed, most greenkeepers welcome a period of frost to give the course a rest. Playing on frozen greens, however, will cause damage, particularly when the surface has thawed and the underlying soil is still frozen. Plant tissues are bruised readily during frost, and a dis­ tinct browning effect can be observed when the thaw takes place. Footmarks often can be observed after play on frozen turf and these may persist for weeks. There may be root damage as well. This is more likely when there is a sudden rush of golfers as soon as the thaw com­ mences. Root damage may be caused as a result of a shearing action — the golfers’ feet pushing the moist unfrozen surface across the frozen sub-surface. TURF NURSERY STOCK IS A CRITICAL MATERIAL “More clubs need better nurseries of superior grasses which fit into the econ­ omy scheme.” Fred V. Grau, October, 1950, issue of Golfdom. Military authorities have stated a need for planting material of improved grasses for use on specialized areas in con­ nection with the reactivation of many military installations. Some greenkeeping superintendents have been asking: “What can I do?” Growing a nursery of the improved grasses that can be maintained economic­ ally is a job every greenkeeping super­ intendent can do. Turf grasses that can be maintained with little or no irriga­ tion water, without the need for pest control, and with a minimum of mowing and fertilizer requirements will be useful on every golf course. If these nurseries can be used as a reservoir of material Also, the surface of greens may be dis­ turbed badly by the players’ feet. If play is to take place, damage can be minimized by the use of frost holes on the approaches. The importance of this cannot be stressed too strongly, and when labor permits, every effort should be made to maintain the approaches in good condition. Such temporary greens often can be used, not only in frosty weather, but also as a temporary measure while top dressing, etc., is being carried out on the green itself. Apart from damage, there are other possible after-effects of frost and snow. It is probable the frost will have lifted the soil and. disturbed the surface. A light roller is often necessary to restore a true putting surface. More serious is the risk of disease. Fusarium patch or “snow mould” is common after the greens have been covered in snow, and the normal controls such as mercuric com­ pounds of Beadeaux malachite prepara­ tions should be used in its control. for use on military establishments, they will serve a double purpose. The Green Section will furnish to member clubs and to Green Section Ser­ vice Subscribers small amounts of plant­ ing materials of those grasses which are not commercially available. Sources of supply will be furnished- upon request for those grasses which are available commercially. — • —-- INTERESTING READING Golf Courses - Design, Construction and Upkeep. Edited by Martin A. F. Sut­ ton, F.L.S., F.R.S.A. Reading, Sutton and Sons, Ltd., 1950. Price $5.00. This is the second edition, the first having ap­ peared 17 years ago. The illustrations are of high quality and the text is ex­ tremely readable. Many students of turf will wish to have a copy of Sutton’s Golf Courses on their book shelf along­ side USGA’s Turf Management by H. B. Musser. USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 31 U-3 BERMUDAGRASS Agronomist in MARVIN H. FERGUSON and FRED V. GRAU By Charge of Research and Director, USGA Green Section, Respectively U-3 bermudagrass is a fine-bladed strain of bermudagrass that was selected at Savannah, Georgia, in 1938. It is the most cold-hardy selection of bermuda­ grass for turf yet found. This strain has been grown in turf in the vicinity of Washington, D.C., since 1938 with no visible sign of winter injury. It has been grown at State College, Pennsyl­ vania, since 1940 and has been used at Norfolk, Neb., at Cleveland, and in the St. Louis area. While U-3 bermuda is adapted to the northern part of the bermudagrass range, it is also finding favor in many parts of the South.. Few strains of ber­ mudagrass have a finer texture and U-3 has performed especially well from the standpoint of turf quality and its ability to hold its green color late in the Fall. U-3 bermudagrass will probably find its greatest use in the “crabgrass belt”. U-3 appears able to make its best growth under the very conditions commonly as­ sociated with the worst crabgrass infesta­ tions: namely, hot humid weather and plenty of sunlight. U-3 promises to provide better turf for golf course tees, fairways, and (in some cases) putting greens, athletic fields, playgrounds, park areas, and sunny lawns. U-3’s outstanding feature is its ability to form a turf that is extremely wear-resistant and which recovers rapid­ ly. The turf is drought-resistant and can be mowed as closely as necessary to meet the demands of its use. Crowds Out Crabgrass Insects and diseases have not yet pre­ sented themselves as a serious problem on U-3 bermudagrass. In the 13 years the Green Section has grown this grass, it has seldom been necessary to apply an insecticide or a fungicide. The density of U-3 turf prevents the encroachment of weeds. Crabgrass ceases to be a problem when the turf is vigorous and dense during the crabgrass season. U-3 bermudagrass does have some dis­ advantages. It is vigorous. It will in­ vade flower beds and borders unless the groover is careful to keep the turf edged. The very vigor that makes this grass a potential weed is an outstanding virtue from the standpoint of turf quality. U-3 bermudagrass becomes dormant after the first killing frost in the fall. It remains dormant until early April in the vicinity of Washington, D. C. It has been found that cool-season grasses can be seeded into the turf of . U-3 bermudagrass and they will effectively mask its dormant color. U-3 bermudagrass is not tolerant of heavy shade. It does best in open sunny areas, where crabgrass thrives. U-3 bermudagrass does not tolerate neglect. It has been described as “a lawn grass for the man who cares”. It must be mowed and fertilized regularly. Propagation of U-3 bermudagrass is by vegetative material. There is no supply of seed. Stolons, sprigs, or plugs of sod may be used in establishing new areas of turf. U-3 bermudagrass may also be introduced into existing turf by sprigging or spot sodding. It is not necessary to destroy the existing turf. It may be planted anytime after the last frost in the spring up until August 15. It Must Be Mowed The only specialized maintenance re­ quired by U-3 bermudagrass consists of heavy feeding and frequent mowing. Bermudagrass should receive about 50 pounds of 10-6-4 fertilizer per 1,000 square feet each year. This should be applied in three equal treatments—early spring, early summer and early fall. For lawns, athletic fields, playgrounds, golf course fairways and similar areas, U-3 bermudagrass should be mowed at about %-inch. The grower will be re­ warded by frequent mowing. U-3 bermudagrass is available com­ mercially. Neither the Green Section nor the Division of Forage Crops and Diseases has U-3 bermudagrass for distribution. A list of suppliers will be furnished upon request. 32 USGA Journal and Turf Management: April, 1951 NOW — A BOOK FOR GREEN CHAIRMEN, TOO! The new USGA-sponsored book Turf Management is being acclaimed by many Green Committee Chairmen as “just what we’ve been looking for”. For the benefits to be derived from reading the book, the price tag of $6.00 is very reasonable. McGraw-Hill, the publisher, reports greatly stimulated sales since turf people began to learn the book is available. At turf conferences all over the United States Turf Management is one of the foremost topics of conversation. Turf Management, with its wealth of illustrations and information on all phases of turf management, belongs in the library of every turf enthusiast. The way in which it is written makes it un­ derstandable to everyone. Prof. H. B. Musser, of Penn State, who authored the book, had generous assistance from 0. J. Noer, Herb Graffis, Marshall Farnham and Fred V. Grau. These four men constituted the Editorial Board. Golf course architects Robert Bruce Harris and Robert Trent Jones prepared the authoritative chapter on architecture. No one should miss Chapter 12 on Golf Course Operation, prepared by outstand- COMING EVENTS April 16-17: Montana-Wyoming Turf Conference, Butte, Mont. R. Manfred Peterson. April 26-27: Northern California Turf Conference, University of California, Berkeley, Cal. J. J. McElroy. April 30 - May 1: Southern California Turf Conference, University of Cali­ fornia, Los Angeles, Cal. V. T. Stoutemyer. May 10-11: Southeastern Turf. Con­ ference, Tifton, Ga. Glenn W. Burton. Aug. 27-31: American Society of Agronomy Annual Meetings, Penn­ sylvania State College, State College, Pa. L. G. Monthey, Madison, Wis. Oct. 24-26: Central Plains Turf Founda­ tion Turf Conference, Manhattan, Kans. L. E. Lambert. ing golf course superintendents Farnham, Glover, Baumgardner, Van Gorder and Gerber. Turf Management may be purchased at your local bookstore or ordered di­ rectly from the United States Golf As­ sociation, 40 East 38th St., New York 16, N. Y. Tournaments for Your Club (Continued from Page 15) score on each hole. Scoring is on a gross basis. Round Robin Tournament — Each entrant plays every other entrant at handicap match play during the season; allow 85% of the difference between handicaps in each match. A time limit usually is set for completion of each round; a player who cannot meet an opponent within the time limit forfeits the match but may continue in the tournament. The winner is the player winning most matches. Ladder Tournament — The names of all players are listed in order, according to handi­ caps, at the start of the season, those having the same handicap being listed alphabetically. A player may challenge any one of the three players immediately above him to an 18-hole match. If he wins, they exchange places. If he loses, he may not challenge again until he has defended his own position against a chal­ lenge from below. Play is usually carried out without handicaps. Goat Tournament — Each member of the club is given an inexpensive token in the form of a goat, with his name on the reverse side. Any player may then challenge another to a handicap match, the winner to get the loser’s “goat.” After a player has lost his “goat,” he may continue to challenge in an attempt to get another player’s “goat.” How­ ever, if he should lose and not have a “goat” with which to pay, he must purchase a “kid” for a nominal amount from the professional and give up the “kid.” The “kid” is convertible into merchandise in the professional’s shop. Only players with a “goat” in their possession may be challenged, and players usually are not required to accept a challenge more often than once a week. Records of “goat” play and the current location of each “goat” usually are posted so that a player may know who has his “goat” and who has the most “goats.” The winner is the player holding the most “goats” at the end of the season. Pro vs. Members — The club professional agrees to play a handicap match against each member as he is challenged, making a nominal charge for each round. The professional plays from scratch. The member making the best showing in his match receives a prize from the professional at the end of the season. USGA Journal and Turf Management: February, 1951 33 IT’S YOUR HONOR Don't Forget Leo Walker Cup Selections — Con TO THE USGA: TO THE USGA: I think most golfers have heard of the sad illness of Leo Diegel. I show movies at his bedside frequently. His body is racked with pain but his lion's heart is still fighting. Although I show movies, Leo prefers to talk about Hagen, Kirkwood, Sarazen and Hogan. His mind is as sharp as a razor's edge and he loves to receive letters or post­ cards from anyone who loves the old game he did so much for through the '20s and '30s. If some readers would like to send him a note of cheer and encouragement, his home address is 10624 Whipple St., North Hollywood, Cal. And remember, Leo's birthday is April 27. Let's flood his bedside with good wishes. This is Dale Morey s record for 1950 (record enclosed). How could you select a team representa­ tive of the United States and not name him? Newspapers have made much comment about it and much more will be said. Cer­ tainly your committee cannot feel too proud over insulting such a record and such a likeable boy as Dale Morey. Texas is disgusted. Spec Goldman won Western Amateur and went to finals of National Amateur one year and didn't make team; Rufus King went to finals in 194* and didn't make team; now this happens to Dale Morey. Is our blood the wrong color? Yours for a representative Walker Cup D. SCOH CHISHOLM Los Angeles, Cal. team, HENRY TIMBERMAN (Address not given) Memorial to Mrs. Kent TO THE USGA: As a fitting memorial to the late Mrs. Sidney B. Kent, of Cincinnati, the Women's Ohio State Golf Association is privileged to send the enclosed donation to "Golf House." Our beloved Mrs. Kent organized this As­ sociation in 1919 and was its first president. Two years later she was elected executive secretary, in which capacity she served bril­ liantly until her death. Mrs. Kent presided over every State Championship until pre­ vented by illness in 1950. Because of her deep interest in and thorough knowledge of the game, she was a personal friend of many ranking golfers and many owe their golf careers to her encourage­ ment. She was a strict advocate of the spirit and the letter of every USGA Rule. The game has lost a true friend. She would have been honored to be memorial­ ized in "Golf House." Walker Cup Selections — Pro TO THE USGA: As an individual who is interested in golf, I think the USGA deserves a world of ap­ plause for picking such an excellent Walker Cup Team. I don't think all the criticism that it's an Eastern team is at all justified, but as a newspaper man I know that in matters of this kind, sectional pride sometimes rises above broad judgment. B. H. RIDDER, JR. Duluth Herald and News-Tribune Duluth, Minn. MRS. FORREST BRUNDAGE Treasurer, Women's Ohio State Golf Association Editor's Note: The USGA Journal invites comments on matters relating to the welfare of the game and will publish them as space permits.