The R&A has granted immediate approval for the first ‘Pace-or-Pause’ active teeing system, developed by a Swiss tech startup, which it believes is set to revolutionise green speed and course flow.
Starting today, all golfers will be expected to use the Chrono-Tee (CT-1), a standard-looking, biodegradable tee embedded with a micro-electromagnet, when driving off every tee in their round. They are also expected to keep the tee in the pocket of their clothing, or hold it in a hand, throughout the round.
The CT-1 system is synched via GPS to a club’s tee-sheet software. If a golfer or their group is more than three minutes behind the designated pace-of-play, the magnet in the CT-1 tee automatically omits a mild electric shock of 20 volts. This will not be painful to the golfer but they will notice it, ensuring they are likely to play more quickly.
Inspired by the famous Milgram psychology experiments in the 1960s, the voltages will be increased in increments of 20 volts for every time the CT-1 goes off per round. To ensure there is no risk to safety, the maximum electric shock will be capped at 300 volts.
“We feel this is a crucial step in modernising the sport,” said an R&A spokesperson. “It’s a firm but fair reminder that a four-hour round is not just a target, it’s a rule. We are confident this will reduce golfer frustration and would be surprised if anything goes wrong.”
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