Golf is a sport that requires skill, knowledge, and stamina. Players are expected to walk long distances between holes on the course. For this reason, you may be wondering why professional players like Darren Clarke use a golf cart during tournaments.
Darren Clarke has been using a golf cart due to a string of injuries that have affected his mobility. The PGA does not prohibit the use of golf carts among injured and disabled players.
In this article, we’ll examine why Darren Clarke uses a golf cart and why this practice has sparked debate in the golf community.
He’s Suffered From a String of Injuries
Throughout his career, Darren Clarke has not had to worry about serious injuries. In an interview, he even said that he had never been an injured golfer.
However, in 2013, the golf player withdrew from the Masters due to a hamstring injury. Since then, he has suffered various injuries that have decreased his overall efficiency in the competition. It’s no wonder why he was seen using a golf cart during the Mitsubishi Electric Championship in 2021.
Darren Clarke Is a Heavy Golfer
Aside from injuries, Darren Clarke struggles with weight-related issues. He has a history of dealing with weight gain that has decreased his overall ability to compete with other players that do not have weight problems.
Because of his weight, it’s reasonable that he chooses to use a golf cart instead of walking, which could also expose him to injuries.
He’s a Senior Player
In his fifties, Darren Clarke is an aging player who feels the effects of old age. Although he admits that age has taken its toll on him, he is determined to keep playing at the highest level.
To keep up with players in their prime, he cannot push his body to the same extent as they do; otherwise, he risks being injured or losing efficiency. Using a golf cart helps him rest and remain competitive.
The PGA Allows It
Many players and fans see Clarke’s and other professional players’ use of a golf cart as an unfair advantage, as it allows them to conserve energy and avoid the physical strain of walking a golf course. They also argue that walking is an essential part of the game and that Clarke’s use of a golf cart undermines the spirit of competition.
While their arguments are true, no law prohibits players from using golf carts during tournaments. Such a law existed until 2001 when the Supreme Court in the United States repealed it.
Today, there is only a regulation that states: “All PGA Tour Championships players are encouraged to walk whenever possible.”
Conclusion
PGA Tour rules allow disabled and injured players like Darren Clarke to use golf carts if they need to. Players may be shamed for not walking throughout the course, but it is not against the rules.
As golf players deal with issues such as age, body weight, and mobility, they can use golf carts during games to help them focus on their game.