PGA president critical of anchored putter ban

10:29 AM ET 03.16 | While the PGA Tour has been the most vocal opponent to the ban on anchoring recently proposed by the U.S. Golf Association and the Royal & Ancient, the PGA of America also took time this week to reaffirm its dissenting stance. Following the annual PGA Conference of Leaders earlier this week, the group's president, Ted Bishop, penned a response column, noting that anchoring was a topic that dominated conversation. "We feel the USGA and R&A have underestimated the impact and ramifications that Rule 14-1b will have on the overall state of the game. It has become one of the most divisive issues that modern-day golf has seen," Bishop wrote. "The PGA of America feels that there is no logical reason to proceed with Rule 14-1b." Noting the various influences exerted upon PGA members at the club level, Bishop shared a view that a ban on anchoring will inevitably lead to professionals and amateurs operating under two different sets of rules. "There was discussion about the politics and inconsistency that will surface around the country if PGA professionals are mandated by their boards, men's and women's associations, or players to allow anchoring for the enjoyment of recreational amateurs," Bishop continued. "Bifurcation seems destined if Rule 14-1b is implemented."

The Golf Channel