Being caught in a thunderstorm or hit by a ball ought to be the only real dangers in a round of golf. But players of this most relaxing of games are being warned they are at serious risk of shattering their eardrums when they tee off. Modern titanium clubs create a "sonic boom" when they connect with the ball, say scientists. The risk of going deaf is so great that doctors are advising golfers to wear earplugs while they play their tee shots. Experts have identified at least one case of a golfer of 55 who they believe has damaged his hearing as a result of using one of the new drivers three times a week for the last 18 months. Tests were carried out on six titanium clubs and six thickerfaced stainless steel models and sound levels measured. While the steel clubs produced the agreeable "tink" of a well-hit shot, the titanium ones were much louder, described by some as similar to a gun being fired. Dr Malcolm Buchanan, an Edinburgh-trained ear, nose and throat specialist - and a keen golfer - said: "Our results show that thin-faced titanium drivers may produce sufficient sound to induce temporary or even permanent cochlear damage in susceptible individuals. "Players should be careful when playing with these thin-faced clubs as they make a lot more noise."

Hell, I can't see the ball, now I won't even know if I wiffed it!

You are playing 3 times a week? Maybe he was real short and closer to the club head

I wish I was playing 3 times a week.

Don't we all

Hell, I'm already half deaf from listening to machinery. Fire away. :-}

Later,

Hell, I'm already half deaf from listening to machinery. Fire away. :-}

Later,

Ooooops :-}

What did ya say ????

That was pretty good !!!!!