A look at the Rules revisions taking effect in 2023

Quick 9: Harsher penalties will curb slow play

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Thursday Night Stat Report It was a difficult day for scoring in the opening round at the Valero Texas Open, with only 4 holes playing under par on the day. Here is a graphic detailing hole-by-hole scoring from Thursday’s round: Currently, there are 86 players at 1 over par or better (T64th position). Our model is projecting Friday’s cutline as follows (as usual, assuming that the course plays to a scoring average similar to Thursday’s): 2 over par: 74.2 percent 3 over par: 24.8 percent 1 over par: 1.0 percent This week’s field at the Valero Texas Open is as big as they come on the PGA TOUR (156 players) and, due to a relative lack of starpower, one of the more evenly-matched fields as well. As a consequence, our model’s highest cut projection at the start of the tournament was just 74 percent, belonging to Matt Kuchar (in a typical week, the highest cut projection will usually be 80 to 90 percent). After shooting 1 under par today, Kuchar’s cut probability now sits at 91 percent. One of the biggest movers on the day was Grayson Murray, whose probability of making the cut rose from 54 percent at the start of Thursday to 99 percent, thanks to his 5 under par round of 67. This implies that the model is giving Murray about a 1 percent chance of shooting 7 over par or worse tomorrow, given how the cutline is being projected above (nobody tell Grayson!). Some other notable cut probabilities heading into Friday’s round are Kevin Chappell (Even par; 80 percent), Brendan Steele (2 under par; 95 percent), Adam Scott (3 over par; 43 percent), and Sergio Garcia (2 over par; 59 percent). NOTE: These reports are based off the live predictive model run by @DataGolf. The model provides live “Make Cut�, “Top 20�, “Top 5�, and “Win� probabilities every 5 minutes from the opening tee shot to the final putt of every PGA TOUR event. Briefly, the model takes account of the current form of each golfer as well as the difficulty of their remaining holes, and probabilities are calculated from 10K simulations. To follow live finish probabilities throughout the remainder of the Valero Texas Open, or to see how each golfer’s probabilities have evolved from the start of the event to the current time, click here for the model’s home page.  

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As evidenced by the range of weather at the BMW Championship, Mother Nature can be a bit moody this time of year. Hot and humid one minute; cool, windy and light rain the next. Being able to adapt to the unpredictable conditions is the difference between an enjoyable stroll around the course and a good walk spoiled. Having a reliable ‘go-to’ layering piece that provides protection in a variety of conditions is the key to comfort and performance. Recognizing this, adidas Golf has released the new Go-To Adapt Jacket for fall. Constructed from a mix of polyester and fleece, the Go-To Adapt was created to give players a grab-and-go option when heading to the course. The polyester on the upper chest, back, and shoulders allows heat to escape as temperatures rise while the fleece-lined fabric over the midsection keeps the core warm for those early morning tee times. “Golfers are used to having apparel that works for the two temperature extremes,� said Christine Cowen, global director of apparel, adidas Golf. “But there are days when you need to be able to transition, for example, from a cooler morning to a warmer afternoon. That’s why we created the Go-To Adapt Jacket; to be the ideal mid-weight option that provides optimal stretch where you need it as well as enhanced breathability. It’s that reliable and perfect piece that can take you through your day, on course and off.� The Go-To Adapt Jacket is loaded with performance and comfort features. One of the more unique aspects is the telescope cuff. Having the ability to roll up the sleeves of a pullover or jacket is a must on the course. Too often this leads to stretched out sleeves that are a distraction during the swing. The telescope cuffs on the Go-To Adapt are designed to stretch in a way that allows them to be rolled up and down throughout the day without losing their shape. Articulation is also built into the sleeves in the elbow area to offer freedom of movement during the swing. “It’s heavy enough that if it’s a little bit cool it keeps you nice and warm. It doesn’t restrict you when you are swinging,� said Sergio Garcia. Combined with the fleece-lined shell is a water-resistant fabric which helps to ward off light showers. For heavier rains, the Go-To Adapt can effortlessly be worn under a waterproof jacket for an extra layer of warmth. A droptail hem provides extra coverage against wind and rain. Plus, front-zip pockets make for an easy place to store a scorecard or hand warmers on a chilly day and internal headphone pockets allow for tunes to be taken on the go. The Go-To Adapt Jacket is available in a range of classic and fashion colorways. The traditional grey, navy blue, white, and black colorways are as versatile as the jacket itself. For those looking to punch up their looks, a spicy Aero Red and an energetic Bright Blue make stylish statements. A women’s version with a more feminine cut and thumbholes on the telescope cuff is also available in four colorways.

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