USGA launches new GS3 ball to calculate putting green conditions

The United States Golf Association (USGA) launched the GS3, a tool that calculates putting green speed, firmness, smoothness and trueness.

(Photo: USGA/Jonathan Kolbe)

The GS3 is a rechargeable smart ball that is the same size and weight as a standard golf ball, with sensors that collect more than 15,000 data points.

“We are excited to provide a tool that enables the industry to objectively quantify putting green metrics, besides just green speed,” said Matt Pringle, Ph.D., managing director of the USGA Green Section. “GS3 can clarify the impact of different maintenance practices, provide benchmarks and communicate to stakeholders how the course is performing.”

Golf course administrators need a Stimpmeter to use GS3. From there, the USGA says the user will activate the GS3, select their position on the Deacon app and performs six roll tests — three each in opposite directions.

“We have been utilizing GS3 for over two months, and I love being able to compile all of the information it provides in one spot,” said Justin DePippo, director of golf course and grounds at Bel-Air Country Club in Los Angeles, Calif. “We are using the numbers to chart our green conditions and create benchmarks, which allows me to make course care decisions based on the data. GS3 and Deacon will improve the way we maintain our greens and we are looking forward to seeing positive results because of it.”