Palmer and USGA Agree to Disagree

The United States Golf Association is sticking with Arnold Palmer as a spokesman for its membership programme despite his endorsement of Callaway
Golf's new non-conforming ERC II driver for "recreational" play.

"We want him to continue as a spokesman for the USGA, and he wants to continue in that role," said USGA executive director David Fay, who visited Palmer at his home in Orlando with vice-president Fred Ridley at the end of last month.

"While we have a pretty fundamental difference, I can't overlook the fact
that we've had, when you go back to his amateur days, close to a 50-year
relationship with Arnold," Fay said. "I prefer to focus on the common ground
and the things we hold in common rather than to dwell on the one thing where
we have a difference of opinion."

On the issue of 'spring-like' effect in golf clubs, Palmer sides with the
Royal & Ancient Golf Club, which has concluded that the distance gained by
using such equipment poses no threat to the integrity of the game.

"If the most ancient ruling body in golf says its okay (to play clubs such as
the ERC II), then I don't see why I need to defend my position," said Palmer
before meeting Fay and Ridley. "I'm one of the strongest supporters of the
USGA in almost everything they do. And I expect to work on behalf of the USGA
for many years to come, if they want me."

The 71-year-old former US Amateur and US Open champion has been the only
spokesman for the USGA's membership prgramme since its introduction 25 years ago.