USGA begins selling GS3

The USGA announced its GS3 data-collecting tool is now available to United States superintendents for purchase. A rechargeable smart ball that is the same size and weight as a standard golf ball, the GS3 ball calculates green speed, firmness, smoothness and trueness.

Used in conjunction with the DEACON app, the GS3 ball provides immediate data on key surface performance metrics. These insights inform the entire facility’s golf course maintenance staff how each surface is performing, creating accurate, measurable, first-of-their-kind agronomic benchmarks that superintendents can use to facilitate change more effectively on their course.

Since announcing the product last year, the USGA has focused on quality testing, data validation, internal adoption at USGA Championships, and adding support staff to manage the growing number of users. Early adopter usage was also sought after and used to improve the product, as golf course maintenance staffs at Atlanta Athletic Club, Bel-Air Country Club, Longboat Key Club, Merion Golf Club, Pinehurst Resort and Country Club, among others, were utilizing the GS3 ball and DEACON.

Included in the GS3 Starter Kit is the GS3 Ball & Charger, a DEACON Subscription, a USGA Stimpmeter, a drop fixture, an enkamat & capture tray, a clipping yield volume bucket, and USGA agronomist support. The GS3 Starter Kit costs $2,750, according to the USGA Green Section Shop.  

The USGA will begin accepting orders on Jan. 31, 2024, and shipping will begin in February 2024.