Orlando, United States: Distance Measuring Devices (DMDs) go well beyond the provision of an accurate yardage, according to a survey by the National Golf Foundation (NGF).
The survey reveals that more than 66 per cent of Core Golfers in the NGF’s panel use DMD devices or Apps during the majority of their rounds.
The NGF ‘Dashboard’ report shows that golfers who use a DMD for yardages and club selection also derive clear psychological and performance benefits when on the golf course.
Almost 80 per cent of golfers report increased ‘shot confidence’ while using a DMD.
This creates a more committed golf swing, with the naturally positive effect on the shot outcome shown in a related statistic – namely, that 39 per cent of golfers say they have carded lower scores while using a DMD.
Unsurprisingly, over one-third of DMD users in the survey also report an increase in their enjoyment of golf, directly attributed to the use of a DMD in their golf game.
And another key additional benefit of DMD usage, revealed by the NGF survey, is increased speed of play. A total of 52 per cent of golfers reported that their round of golf is faster when DMDs are being used properly.
Jacqui Surman, Vice President of International Sales and Marketing for Golf GPS specialist SkyCaddie, said: “We welcome this report, which validates what SkyGolf has been saying for over a decade – namely, that a large number of golfers have more fun, and play with more confidence, knowing that they have a good yardage.
“This is confirmation that DMDs boost golf’s enjoyment factor, which is good news for the sport.”