JP HAYES
20 Plus Year PGA Tour veteran, J.P. Hayes may have gave himself more 2009 exemptions by his recent voluntary disqualification. Hayes, the Wisconsin native has struggled the last several years on tour. In fact, Hayes hasn’t won a tour event in six years. In 2008 he finished 176Th on the PGA Tour money list. His luck is most recently portrayed while playing in the second stage of Q-school. Here, he found himself playing a USGA non-conforming, prototype ball made by Titleist.
After completing the 12th hold at Deer Wood Country Club, Hayes dedcided to replace his ball. At which point, his caddie tossed him a replacment. When Hayes went to mark the ball on the green, he acknowledged it was not the same model which he started the round with. Immediately, he know this was a violation of the one-ball rule. Hayes called over the rules official who then assessed him a two-stroke penalty. With the penalty, Hayes shot a modest 71 in the second round. Overall, Hayes was T-44 at 1-over 145. The top 20 and ties after 72 holes (4 under or better) all advanced to the final stage of Q-school. If only a penalty, Hayes still had a legitimate chance to advance to the final round.
Hayes may not be the prototypical role model. However, his act was an example for golfers around the world, more importantly young golfers. His words say it best. Hayes was quoted as saying “I hesitate to say it was a good thing” he went on to say “It was either cheat or don’t cheat and I don’t cheat.” His honesty and his quotes made himself tremendous publicity and his actions remind us at to why we call this a gentleman’s game.
Hayes made a mistake, as did his caddie by keeping the ball in the bag and in play. However, on the side of Hayes and his caddie, the mistake was easy. Many might find it hard to believe. However, tour professionals are constantly testing products provided to them by manufactures. Balls, shafts, grips, tees, shoes, clothing and other accessories are items that are provided to these players for free. Endorsements or not, manufacturers want credible players to use their products which also provide valuable feedback. They have an abundence of products and equipment options available at their disposal. Although it may be rare, these mistakes can happen. It makes you wonder how frequently these blunders occur. In the case of J.P. Hayes, his selfless act of self-disqualification, easily sacrificed his 2009 season thousands if not millions of dollars. A true example of what makes golf a terrific and honorable game.
CHRIS BURNS
JP HAYES - Self Disqualification
