R&A Lifts Mobile Ban For Open
Spectators will be allowed to use mobile phones at the 2012 Open Championship after the game’s governing body, the R&A, lifted its six-year ban on the devices – with calls set to be allowed in designated areas, but photography and video recording will still not be permitted during the four days of the championship.
R&A chief executive Peter Dawson, told the BBC: ‘There is no denying the attachment people feel to their mobile phones. Allowing their use at the championship will enrich the Open experience.’
Mobile phones were first banned for the 2007 Open at Carnoustie after players complained about the number in use at the previous Championship at Hoylake.
Dawson added: ‘We understand there will be concerns over this change in policy but we will be liaising with spectators around the tented village and food and drink outlets.’
‘Strict rules will be put in place designed to ensure that play is not affected in any way by the change.’
‘Our spectators are very knowledgeable and understand golf and so we are confident they will respect the players.’
The Open last visited Lytham in 2001, when David Duval won the claret jug, and since then all but four holes have undergone some form of redevelopment, with almost 200 yards added to the 7,086-yard par 70 Championship course.
