No More Cell Phones At The Open

This was overdue...

NO MOBILE PHONES AT THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

Spectators who intend attending The Open Championship, to be played at Carnoustie from Sunday 15 to Sunday 22 July 2007, are being advised that they will not be permitted to have mobile phones in their possession within The Open site. 

This policy is in line with other major golf championships, including this year’s Ryder Cup at the K Club, and follows comments from players concerning the excessive numbers in evidence this year at Hoylake.

David Hill, Director of Championships for The R&A, said, “We have so far resisted the call to ban mobile phones on the grounds that it may be an inconvenience to the public. However, after receiving complaints referring to the numbers that were in use as play in The Open was proceeding, we feel there is no other reasonable option other than a complete ban.

“As at the Ryder Cup, we believe that spectators will understand that this measure is being put in place to make The Open a more enjoyable experience for all spectators and players. I would stress that we will install additional public telephones for use by members of the general public.” 

In order to implement the ‘No Mobile Phone Policy’, security checks of every spectator will be in operation at the paygates.

Comments

[Bob C.]

There they go shooting down the 21st Century 3-screen future. Maybe they don't want spectators on the grounds to be able to watch the telecasts at the same time, you know tape delayed announcers making huge predictions that come true before our very eyes.

[Flat Screen]

Geeeee Whiz, wouldn't "streaming TV feeds" on cell phones count towards TV Ratings? God knows golf could use more people being interested in watching! OR, would the streaming of LIVE TV feeds disrupt the Tour's DEAL with XM-Radio?

[Ardmore Ari]

are they going to tell TW that his people can't bring their mobile devices to the Open? yeah right!

[Mac Dviot]

This being Britain the ban will only apply to the "commoners" who actually buy their tickets and are there to watch the golf.
All the assorted coaches, shrinks, gurus, WAGS, caddies, etc. will be exempt, as no doubt will the "media", R & A members, and of course those on corporate freebies and junkets will need their phones to “keep in touch with the office” and to shout loudly about who they have met and who much they are drinking and of course to phone their chums to try and find out “Who’s the chap in the red shirt? He seems to be pretty good.”

[Sandy Wedge]

I've about had it with the Pros and their need for absolute silence. Their skills are beyond anything we can dream of yet, the feel the need to be treated like they are the only ones on the course. Ever made a putt for a "cold one" while your playing partners are trying to talk you out of it? It can be done! Enough with the rules already! Pretty soon they will try to ban excessive breathing as well.

[Tim]

In response to SANDY WEDGE, next you won't be able yell and wave at basketball players shooting freethrows or when the visiting quarterback is trying to audible a play. Oh wait! I forgot, those athletes are trained to CONCENTRATE.

[Cardu]

I hope they are ready to search the groin area?

[True golf fan]

I like the ban! Aren't people there to watch golf played live, and not be there to yack on the phone for a few hours (or hear others' trivial conversations)? I can't imagine their lives being so delicate before the advent of cell phones, so what's the problem now? Those who complain about not having their phones allowed are the same ones who don't shut off their ringers at the theater.