What is the difference between the USGA and the PGA or the
LPGA?
topThe USGA is the not-for-profit governing body of the game of
golf. Existing to preserve and protect golf's tradition, this
organization monitors the rules of golf and equipment standards
in an effort to ensure that skill rather than technology
represents the essence of the game. The USGA also conducts
turfgrass and environmental research, maintains a National
Handicap and Course Rating System and preserves an extensive
collection of golf memorabilia at its museum and library. On
behalf of all golfers, both amateur and professional, the USGA
conducts three Open championships each year -- Men's, Senior
Men's and Women's - and 10 Amateur championships.
The PGA (the Professional Golfers Association of America) and
the LPGA (the Ladies Professional Golf Association of America)
are organizations of individual professional golfers. Both the
PGA and LPGA conduct tournaments for their members. Also, members
of these associations provide expert golf instruction and are
involved in a number of other local activities. The USGA has a
close working relationship with these organizations.
I'd like to play on the PGA Tour or the LPGA Tour.
Should I contact the USGA for an application?
topNo. The professional tours are sponsored by the PGA Tour and
the LPGA. Please contact them at the addresses found above.
Where can I watch USGA championships?
topEach year a number of USGA championships are televised. ESPN
and NBC typically televise the U.S. Open, the U.S. Women's
Open and the U.S. Senior Open. The 10 amateur championships are
broadcast on NBC, ESPN or the Golf Channel.
Can I purchase or obtain the television broadcast coverage
of USGA championships from the USGA?
topNo. The television broadcast coverage of USGA championships is
not for sale to the public. The USGA produces highlights each
year for the U.S. Open, U.S. Women's Open and the U.S. Senior
Open and may be ordered by calling the USGA Order Department at
(800)336-4446 or online at the USGA Publications Web site at
www.usgapubs.com.
Where can I write to Arnold Palmer?
topArnold Palmer has been the Volunteer National Chairman for the
USGA Members Program since its inception. He undoubtedly has done
a tremendous amount for the game of golf. Mr. Palmer can be
reached at the following address:
Arnold Palmer
Volunteer National Chairman
USGA
PO Box 746
Far Hills, N.J. 07931