Golfers are reminded that the limit on the 'spring-like' effect of driving clubs, which has applied to elite golf since 2003, will be a Rule of Golf and apply to all golfers from I January 2008.

This "new" Rule will affect the conformance status of some drivers currently in the marketplace and in players' bags, Golfers are, therefore, encouraged to check their own driver, and any driver they may buy in the future, in preparation for 2008. To help provide correct information on driver conformance, the R&A has compiled and published the following lists based on the 2008 Rules;

• List of Conforming Driver Heads
• List of Non-Conforming Drivers

Both of these lists can be accessed via the R&A's website by following the links to 'Rules', 'Equipment' and ‘Driving clubs'. Detailed guidance is provided on each List, including how the lists can be used to identify a club in question. Both Lists are updated weekly.

The website also gives details of a new Condition of Competition which will be available for use by Committees from I January 2006, requiring players to use a model of driver included on the List of Conforming Driver Heads. Whilst this Condition is not recommended for use in normal Club matches and competitions, it may be implemented at County and National level competitions and/or in any qualifying events. Between I January 2006 and 31 December 2007, golfers should check the Conditions of Competition before playing in any such event, to be sure that their driver is permitted for use.

Any questions relating to the 2008 Rule change, the Condition of Competition or the conformance status of specific models of driver should be directed to The R&A and specifically my colleague Claire Bates (clairebates@randa.org).

David Rickman
Director of Rules and Equipment Standards