Shorter tee play encouraged

The USGA and the PGA of America are behind an initiative called “Tee It Forward,” which encourages golfers to play from a shorter set of tees that best matches how far they hit their tee shots.

The idea comes from Barney Adams, founder of Adams Golf, who believes the game will be more fun if players aren’t having to hit long irons or hybrids into every hole.

He also thinks it will speed play and help lower scores.

The USGA and PGA of America are asking golfers to participate in this concept from July 5-17.

They have produced a chart that suggests which set of tees to use. For example, a player who hits it 275 yards should play a course between 6,700 and 6,900 yards, while someone whose drive on average goes 200 yards should play a course at 5,200 to 5,400 yards.