I like Bryson's approach to the game, it's different. It seems to keep his mind from wandering during those 6 hour PGA rounds ala Freddie Couples. For me maintaining concentration is a huge part of the game. I use a gps to get a number and keep score. That's all the info I need to swing confidently. With a general number in my head I pull a club and don't think about anything but executing the shot. It seems once the Bryson has all the info he feels he needs he swings with confidence. A plus is all the calculations he makes while waiting to hit keeps him focused.

I get a kick out of some of the old timers I play with. Although having just turned 60 myself I guess I need to rethink the term "oldtimer" 🙂. They have played the same course over and over again for 30-40 years. Of course they know where they are at any given spot on the course. They snark at my gps technology yet I'm walking, playing a half set of old set blades I built for fun, an old anser putter and they always have the latest and greatest driver, irons and high MOI putters their bag.

The USGA's ruling:

"The Rule prohibits a player, during a stipulated round, from using any artificial device or unusual equipment, or using any equipment in an abnormal manner, that 'might assist him in making a stroke or in his play.' Because a compass is not a usual piece of equipment in golf, and Bryson clearly stated that he had used the device to assist him, the USGA, R&A and the PGA Tour agreed it was in the best interest of the game to share this determination with Bryson immediately."

By this logic I question whether carrying a yardage book is legal. ☺