Patent Publication Number: US-2023136206-A1

Title: Golf flagstick assemblies as well as components therefor and methods of construction

Description:
This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/840,007, filed on Apr. 29, 2019 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/854,606, filed on May 30, 2019, the entire contents of each of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The subject matter of the present disclosure broadly relates to the art of sports equipment and, more particularly, to flagstick assemblies used in connection with the playing of golf. Components for adapting existing flagsticks as well as methods of assembly and modification are also included. 
     Traditionally, the rules of golf have dictated that an associated golf ball played while on a putting green cannot contact a flagstick located within the target hole without the player incurring a penalty. As a result, the flagstick is typically removed from the target hole prior to or during the act of putting an associated golf ball from a starting position on the green. 
     Recently, in an effort to increase pace of play or for other reasons, one or more of the bodies governing the rules of golf have decided to alter this longstanding rule and allow an associated golf ball to be putted into the target hole without penalty while the flagstick remains therein. A debate currently exists as to whether an associated golf ball entering a target hole with the flagstick therein will provide an advantage or a disadvantage to the player. That is, there is conflicting evidence as to whether an associated golf ball contacting a flagstick that is within the target hole will increase or decrease the likelihood of the associated golf ball falling into the target hole. In any case, and whether such a rule change may create an advantage or disadvantage for the players, it has been observed that in many cases only a small amount of clearance exists for a putted golf ball to enter a target hole while the flagstick remains therein. 
     Notwithstanding the ongoing usage of existing flagstick constructions in connection with the playing of golf, the foregoing and/or other disadvantages exist that remain to be addressed. Accordingly, it is believed desirable to develop constructions, components and methods that overcome the foregoing and/or other problems and/or disadvantages of known designs, and/or otherwise advance the art of golf flagsticks. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION 
     One example of a golf flagstick assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can be dimensioned to be supported within an associated base located within an associated target hole. The golf flagstick assembly can have a longitudinal axis and can include a ferrule, a first flagstick portion, a second flagstick portion and a connector fitting. The ferrule can be dimensioned to operatively engage the associated base. The first flagstick portion can include a first end operatively connected to the ferrule and a second end spaced apart from the ferrule. The first flagstick portion can have a first cross-sectional dimension transverse to the longitudinal axis. The second flagstick portion can include a first end and a second end spaced apart from the first end. The second flagstick portion can be separate from the first flagstick portion and can have a second cross-sectional dimension transverse to the longitudinal axis. The second flagstick portion can be oriented such that the first end of the second flagstick portion is disposed toward the second end of the first flagstick portion. The connector fitting can extend between and operatively connect the first and second flagstick portions. The connector fitting can have a fitting cross-sectional dimension transverse to the longitudinal axis that is less than the first cross-sectional dimension of the first flagstick portion and less than the second cross-sectional dimension of the second flagstick portion. 
     One example of a golf flagstick connector fitting in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can be dimensioned for securement between an associated first flagstick portion and an associated second flagstick portion. The connector fitting can include a fitting body having a longitudinal axis and extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The fitting body can include a first connector portion, a second connector portion and an extension portion. The first connector portion can be disposed along the first end of the fitting body and can have a first cross-sectional dimension in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis. The first connector portion can be dimensioned for operative connection to the associated first flagstick portion. The second connector portion can be disposed along the second end of the fitting body and can have a second cross-sectional dimension transverse to the longitudinal axis. The second connector portion can be dimensioned for operative connection to the associated second flagstick portion. The extension portion can extend longitudinally between and operatively connect the first and second connector portions. The extension portion can have an extension cross-sectional dimension transverse to the longitudinal axis that is less than the first cross-sectional dimension of the first connector portion and less than the second cross-sectional dimension of the second connector portion. 
     One example of a method of assembling a golf flagstick in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can include providing a first flagstick portion and a second flagstick portion that is separate from the first flagstick portion. The first flagstick portion can have a first cross-sectional dimension and the second flagstick portion can have a second cross-sectional dimension. The method can also include providing a connector fitting including a first connector portion, a second connector portion, and an extension portion extending longitudinally between and operatively connecting the first and second connector portions. The extension portion can have an extension cross-sectional dimension that is less than the first cross-sectional dimension of the first flagstick portion and less than the second cross-sectional dimension of the second flagstick portion. The method can further include securing the first flagstick portion to the first connector portion of the connector fitting, and/or can include securing the second flagstick portion to the second connector portion of the connector fitting such that the extension portion is positioned lengthwise between the first and second flagstick portions. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a side elevation view of a conventional golf green having a conventional target hole with an associated golf ball entering the target hole while a conventional flagstick assembly is supported therein. 
         FIG.  2    is a side elevation view of the conventional golf green and target hole in  FIG.  1    with an associated golf ball entering the target hole while one example of a flagstick assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure is supported in the target hole. 
         FIG.  3    is an enlarged view of the portion of the golf green and flagstick assembly identified as Detail  3  in  FIG.  2   . 
         FIG.  4    is a side view of a conventional flagstick assembly prior to modification using components and methods in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  5    is a side view of a conventional flagstick assembly undergoing modification using components and methods in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  6    is a side view of a flagstick assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  7    is a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary flagstick component in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  8    is a side elevation view of the conventional golf green and target hole in  FIG.  1    with an associated golf ball entering the target hole while another example of a flagstick assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure is supported in the target hole. 
         FIG.  9    is an enlarged view of the portion of the golf green and flagstick assembly identified as Detail  9  in  FIG.  8   . 
         FIG.  10    is a side view of a conventional flagstick assembly prior to modification using components and methods in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  11    is a side view of a conventional flagstick assembly undergoing modification using components and methods in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  12    is a side view of a flagstick assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  13    is a cross-sectional side view, in partial cross section, of the portion of the flagstick assembly identified as Detail  13  in  FIG.  12   . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Turning now to the drawings, it is to be understood that the showings are for purposes of illustrating examples of the subject matter of the present disclosure and are not intended to be limiting. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the drawings are not to scale and that portions of certain features and/or elements may be exaggerated for purpose of clarity and ease of understanding. 
       FIG.  1    illustrates an area of a golf course commonly referred to as a putting green PGR that includes a target hole THL into which a golf ball GBL is played in an otherwise conventional manner. The target hole is typically cut into the putting green such that the hole extends through the grass surface GSF and into the earthen material EMT below by a certain generally standardized depth, which is represented in  FIG.  3    by reference dimension DPT. Target hole THL will also typically have a standardized shape (e.g., cylindrical) and size (e.g., 4.25 inches), as is represented in  FIG.  3    by reference dimension HDM. Typically, a rigid base RGB is placed into the target hole and is supported at the bottom thereof. Conventionally, the rigid base will include one or more features suitable for receiving and retaining a flagstick that identifies target hole THL and can usually be seen at a significant distance away from the putting green. A conventional flagstick CFS is shown in  FIG.  1    and includes an elongated flagstick segment EFS with a ferrule FRL secured along one end and a flag FLG supported at a distance above grass surface GSF. 
     As indicated above, target hole THL typically has a standardized shape and size. Similarly, golf ball GBL will have a lower size limit of 1.68 inches in diameter though larger diameter sizes could be used. It has been found that many flagsticks have a round cross-sectional shape and are approximately 0.50 inches in diameter in the area in which the flagstick enters the target hole. In cases in which golf ball GBL is played toward target hole THL with conventional flagstick CFS in place in the target hole, only a small amount of clearance (e.g., approximately 0.19 inches) is available between the edge of the target hole and the outer surface of elongated flagstick segment EFS for the full diameter of the golf ball to fit through. 
     Constructions of golf flagstick assemblies in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure are operative to minimize or at least reduce the obstruction associated with the flagstick remaining in place when a ball is played toward the target hole. In accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, constructions such as those disclosed herein may allow for the flagstick to provide a minimized or at least reduced area of obstruction associated with a putted ball entering target hole THL, such as is shown in  FIGS.  2  and  8   , for example. This reduction of area may allow for less instances of contact between golf ball GBL and the subject assemblies prior to the ball dropping into target hole THL, which contact—upon occurring—could result in a negative outcome with respect to the golf ball dropping into the hole. 
     In some cases, flagstick assemblies in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can be constructed from new component parts. In other cases, flagstick assemblies in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can be constructed from pre-existing flagsticks, such as by modifying the pre-existing flagsticks to include a connector fitting, such as is described hereinafter. One example of a golf flagstick assembly  100  in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, which can be assembled from any combination of new components or a pre-existing flagstick, is shown and described herein in connection with  FIGS.  2 - 6   . Golf flagstick assembly  100  is shown in  FIGS.  2  and  3    as providing additional clearance for golf ball GBL to drop into target hole THL. 
     Flagstick assemblies  100  can include a ferrule  102  adapted to operatively engage rigid base RGB to support flagstick assemblies  100  within target hole THL in a conventional manner. Flagstick assemblies  100  can have a longitudinal axis AX and include a flagstick portion  104  that includes an end (not numbered) disposed within or otherwise operatively connected to ferrule  102  and an end  106  opposite the ferrule. Flagstick assemblies  100  can also include a flagstick portion  108  that extends longitudinally between an end  110  disposed toward end  106  of flagstick portion  104  and an end  112  adapted to operatively engage and support flag FLG at an elevated position relative to grass surface GSF. 
     Flagstick portion  104  can have a cross-sectional dimension taken transverse to longitudinal axis AX, as is represented in  FIG.  5    by reference dimension CD 1 . Flagstick portion  108  can also have a cross-sectional dimension taken transverse to the longitudinal axis, as is represented in  FIG.  5    by reference dimension CD 2 . In some cases, cross-sectional dimensions CD 1  and CD 2  can be approximately equal to one another. In other cases, the cross-sectional dimensions can differ from one another, such as in cases in which pre-existing flagsticks have been used that have a tapered or an otherwise varying size along the length thereof. 
     A connector fitting  114  in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure extends between and operatively connects flagstick portions  104  and  108 . Connector fitting  114  can extend lengthwise between opposing ends  116  and  118 . A connector portion  120  can be included along end  116  and can be adapted for securement to end  106  of flagstick portion  104 . A connector portion  122  can be included along end  118  and can be adapted for securement to end  110  of flagstick portion  108 . As shown in  FIG.  7   , connector portion  120  and  122  can have cross-sectional dimensions taken transverse to longitudinal axis AX, as are respectively represented by reference dimensions CD 3  and CD 4 . In some cases, cross-sectional dimensions CD 3  and CD 4  can be approximately equal to one another. In other cases, however, cross-sectional dimensions CD 3  and CD 4  can differ from one another, such as where the cross-sectional dimensions of flagstick portions  104  and  108  differ from one another, as described above. In some cases, cross-sectional dimension CD 3  can be greater than cross-sectional dimensions CD 1  and/or CD 2 . In such cases, connector portion  120  can include a recess or passage  124  that extends into the connector portion from along an end surface  126  thereof. In a preferred arrangement, recess  124  is dimensioned to receive an end of flagstick portion  104  and/or an end of flagstick portion  108 . Additionally, or in the alternative, cross-sectional dimension CD 4  can be greater than cross-sectional dimensions CD 1  and/or CD 2 . In such cases, connector portion  122  can include a recess or passage  128  that extends into the connector portion from along an end surface  130  thereof. In a preferred arrangement, recess  128  is dimensioned to receive an end of flagstick portion  104  and/or an end of flagstick portion  108 . 
     Connector fitting  114  also includes an extension portion  132  that extends longitudinally between and operatively connects connector portions  120  and  122 . Extension portion  132  can have a cross-sectional dimension taken transverse to longitudinal axis AX, as is represented by reference dimension CD 5  in  FIG.  7   . In accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, the cross-sectional dimension of extension portion  132  is less than cross-sectional dimension CD 1  of flagstick portion  104  and/or cross-sectional dimension CD 2  of flagstick portion  108 . In a preferred arrangement, cross-sectional dimension CD 5  can be approximately one-half or less of cross-sectional dimension CD 1  and/or cross-sectional dimension CD 2 . In a more preferred arrangement, cross-sectional dimension CD 5  can be approximately one-third or less of cross-sectional dimension CD 1  and/or cross-sectional dimension CD 2 . As a non-limiting example, cross-sectional dimension CD 5  can be within a range of approximately 0.13 inches to approximately 0.38 inches. In some cases, cross-sectional dimension CD 5  can have a size of approximately 0.25 or less. Additionally, cross-sectional dimension CD 5  is less than cross-sectional dimensions CD 3  and/or CD 4 , as discussed above. 
     It will be appreciated that flagstick assembly  100  and connector fitting  114  thereof will undergo extended exposure to outdoor environmental conditions as well as the forces and impacts associated with regular usage in a golf course environment. In that the subject construction is intended to provide a section of the flagstick that has a minimal or at least substantially reduced diameter, it will be appreciated that connector fitting  114  can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials capable of withstanding such forces and loads. As non-limiting examples, metal materials such as steel, titanium and/or aluminum could be used. Additionally, such material or combination of materials (and any coatings and/or treatments applied thereto) can be adapted for extended exposure to outdoor environmental conditions so as to last the lifetime of flagstick assembly  100 . 
     It will be appreciated that connector fitting  114  can be secured to flagstick portion  104  and to flagstick portion  108  in any manner or arrangement suitable for withstanding the loads, forces, impacts and exposure discussed above. As non-limiting examples, connections utilizing a flowed-material joint, one or more mechanical fasteners and/or a mechanical interconnection could be used. Such connections are collectively represented in  FIG.  5    by dashed lines  134  and  136  extending respectively along flagstick portions  104  and  108 . 
     With respect to lengths of the various components and the positioning of extension portion  132  relative to grass surface GSF in an installed position of flagstick assembly  100 , it will be appreciated that flagstick assembly  100  should be constructed such that a section  138  of extension portion  132  is disposed within target hole THL and a section  140  of extension portion  132  is disposed above or otherwise outside of the target hole. In this manner, it is ensured that a section of connector fitting  114  having a significantly reduced cross-sectional dimension (i.e., extension portion  132 ) is disposed along grass surface GSF such that an incoming golf ball (e.g., golf ball GBL) will contact the section of the connector fitting  114  having the significantly reduced cross-sectional dimension (i.e., extension portion  132 ). As a non-limiting example, extension portion  132  can have a length of at least 6 inches with section  138  extending into target hole THL at least 3 inches and section  140  disposed above or otherwise outside of the target hole at least 3 inches. In such cases, golf flagstick assembly  100  can be constructed such that there is no diameter change along the flagstick from at least 3 inches above grass surface GSF to at least 3 inches below the grass surface. In situations in which a pre-existing conventional flagstick is being modified, it may be desirable to maintain the approximate overall length of the original flagstick, as is represented in  FIG.  4    by reference dimension ORL. 
     One example of a method of assembling a golf flagstick assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can include providing a pre-existing, conventional flagstick CFS, such as is shown in  FIGS.  1  and  4   , for example. The exemplary method can also include separating elongated, single flagstick segment EFS into two or more flagstick portions, such as flagstick portions  104  and  108 , for example. In some cases, single flagstick segment EFS can be separated into three or more portions, such as flagstick portions  104  and  108  as well as a flagstick portion  142 . In such cases, one or more of the flagstick portions can be removed or otherwise eliminated from flagstick assembly  100 . In the exemplary arrangement shown in  FIG.  5   , for example, flagstick portion  142  is removed and replaced by connector fitting  114 , which has been positioned between ends  106  and  110 . As is represented in  FIG.  5    by arrow AD 1 , flagstick portion  104  and connector fitting  114  can be displaced relative to one another such that end  106  of the flagstick portion operatively engages end  116  of the connector fitting, such as by the end of the flagstick portion being at least partially received beyond end surface  126  into recess  124 , such as is shown in  FIGS.  2 ,  3  and  6   , for example. Similarly, arrow AD 2  can represent flagstick portion  108  and connector fitting  114  can be displaced relative to one another such that end  110  of the flagstick portion operatively engages end  118  of the connector fitting, such as by the end of the flagstick portion being at least partially received beyond end surface  130  into recess  128 , such as is shown in  FIGS.  2 ,  3  and  6   , for example. 
     It will be appreciated that elongated flagstick segment EFS can be separated into two or more sections or portions in any suitable manner and/or through the use of any suitable technique or process, such as is represented in  FIG.  4    by dashed lines  144  and/or  146 . As non-limiting examples, lines  144  and/or  146  can represent separating elongated flagstick segment EFS into two or more sections or portions by cutting, sawing, shearing and/or severing. As indicated in  FIGS.  4  and  5   , elongated flagstick segment EFS can be separated into portions  104 ,  108  and, optionally,  142  having corresponding portion lengths PL 1 , PL 2  and PL 3 , respectively, which at least approximately total original overall length ORL of the elongated flagstick segment. In some cases, it may be desirable to construct flagstick assembly  100  such that an overall flagstick length OAL ( FIG.  6   ) thereof is at least approximately equal to original overall length ORL of the elongated flagstick segment. In such case, it may be desirable for flagstick portions  104  and  108  to be positioned in spaced relation to one another by approximately the length of flagstick portion  142  (i.e., length PL 3 ). Accordingly, extension portion  132  of connector portion  114  can have an approximate length EPL that is less than length PL 3 , and connector portion  114  can have an overall length CPL that is greater than length PL 3 . In some cases, recesses  124  and/or  128  can at least partially define a distance PL 3 ′ that is approximately equal to length PL 3  and at which ends  106  and  110  are disposed from one another in an assembled condition of flagstick assembly  100 . 
     As indicated above, flagstick assemblies in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can, in some cases, be constructed from new component parts. In other cases, flagstick assemblies in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can be constructed from pre-existing flagsticks, such as by modifying the pre-existing flagsticks to include a connector fitting, such as is described hereinafter. Another example of a golf flagstick assembly  200  in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, which can be assembled from any combination of new components or a pre-existing flagstick, is shown and described herein in connection with  FIGS.  8 - 13   . Golf flagstick assembly  200  is shown in  FIGS.  8  and  9    as providing additional clearance for golf ball GBL to drop into target hole THL. 
     Flagstick assemblies  200  can include a ferrule  202  adapted to operatively engage rigid base RGB to support flagstick assemblies  200  within target hole THL in a conventional manner. Flagstick assemblies  200  can have a longitudinal axis AX and include a flagstick portion  204  that includes an end (not numbered) disposed within or otherwise operatively connected to ferrule  202  and an end  206  opposite the ferrule. Flagstick assemblies  200  can also include a flagstick portion  208  that extends longitudinally between an end  210  disposed toward end  206  of flagstick portion  204  and an end  212  adapted to operatively engage and support flag FLG at an elevated position relative to grass surface GSF. 
     Flagstick portion  204  can have a cross-sectional dimension taken transverse to longitudinal axis AX, as is represented in  FIG.  11    by reference dimension CD 1 . Flagstick portion  208  can also have a cross-sectional dimension taken transverse to the longitudinal axis, as is represented in  FIG.  11    by reference dimension CD 2 . In some cases, cross-sectional dimensions CD 1  and CD 2  can be approximately equal to one another. In other cases, the cross-sectional dimensions can differ from one another, such as in cases in which pre-existing flagsticks have been used that have a tapered or an otherwise varying size along the length thereof. 
     A connector fitting  214  in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure extends between and operatively connects flagstick portions  204  and  208 . Connector fitting  214  can extend lengthwise between opposing ends  216  and  218 . A connector portion  220  can be included along end  216  and can be adapted for securement to end  206  of flagstick portion  204 . A connector portion  222  can be included along end  218  and can be adapted for securement to end  210  of flagstick portion  208 . As shown in  FIG.  13   , connector portions  220  and  222  can have cross-sectional dimensions taken transverse to longitudinal axis AX, as are respectively represented by reference dimensions CD 6  and CD 7 . In some cases, cross-sectional dimensions CD 6  and CD 7  can be approximately equal to one another. In other cases, however, cross-sectional dimensions CD 6  and CD 7  can differ from one another, such as where the cross-sectional dimensions of flagstick portions  204  and  208  differ from one another, as described above. In some cases, cross-sectional dimension CD 6  can be less than cross-sectional dimensions CD 1  and/or CD 2 . In such cases, end  206  of flagstick portion  204  can include a recess or passage  224  that extends into the flagstick portion from along an end surface  226  of flagstick portion  204 . In a preferred arrangement, recess  224  is dimensioned to receive end  216  of connector fitting  214 . Additionally, or in the alternative, cross-sectional dimension CD 7  can be less than cross-sectional dimensions CD 1  and/or CD 2 . In such cases, end  210  of flagstick portion  208  can include a recess or passage  228  that extends into the flagstick portion from along an end surface  230  of flagstick portion  208 . In a preferred arrangement, recess  228  is dimensioned to receive end  218  of connector fitting  214 . 
     Connector fitting  214  also includes an extension portion  232  that extends longitudinally between and operatively connects connector portions  220  and  222 . Extension portion  232  can have a cross-sectional dimension taken transverse to longitudinal axis AX, as is represented by reference dimension CD 8  in  FIG.  13   . In some cases, the cross-sectional dimension of extension portion  232  can be less than cross-sectional dimension CD 1  of flagstick portion  104  and/or cross-sectional dimension CD 2  of flagstick portion  108 . In a preferred arrangement, cross-sectional dimension CD 8  can be approximately one-half or less of cross-sectional dimension CD 1  and/or cross-sectional dimension CD 2 . In a more preferred arrangement, cross-sectional dimension CD 8  can be approximately one-third or less of cross-sectional dimension CD 1  and/or cross-sectional dimension CD 2 . As a non-limiting example, cross-sectional dimension CD 8  can be within a range of approximately 0.13 inches to approximately 0.38 inches. In some cases, cross-sectional dimension CD 8  can have a size of approximately 0.25 or less. Additionally, in some cases, cross-sectional dimension CD 8  can be less than cross-sectional dimensions CD 6  and/or CD 7 . In other cases, cross-sectional dimension CD 8  can be approximately equal to cross-sectional dimensions CD 6  and/or CD 7 . In still other cases, cross-sectional dimension CD 8  can be greater than cross-sectional dimensions CD 6  and/or CD 7 . 
     It will be appreciated that flagstick assembly  200  and connector fitting  214  thereof will undergo extended exposure to outdoor environmental conditions as well as the forces and impacts associated with regular usage in a golf course environment. In that the subject construction is intended to provide a section of the flagstick that has a minimal or at least substantially reduced diameter, it will be appreciated that connector fitting  214  can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials capable of withstanding such forces and loads. As non-limiting examples, metal materials such as steel, titanium and/or aluminum could be used. Additionally, such material or combination of materials (and any coatings and/or treatments applied thereto) can be adapted for extended exposure to outdoor environmental conditions so as to last the lifetime of flagstick assembly  200 . 
     It will be appreciated that connector fitting  214  can be secured to flagstick portion  204  and to flagstick portion  208  in any manner or arrangement suitable for withstanding the loads, forces, impacts and exposure discussed above. As non-limiting examples, connections utilizing a flowed-material joint, one or more mechanical fasteners and/or a mechanical interconnection could be used. Such connections are collectively represented in  FIGS.  11  and  13    by dashed lines  234  and  236  extending respectively along connector portions  220  and  222  as well as along flagstick portions  204  and  208 . 
     With respect to lengths of the various components and the positioning of extension portion  232  relative to grass surface GSF in an installed position of flagstick assembly  200 , it will be appreciated that flagstick assembly  200  should be constructed such that a section  238  of extension portion  232  is disposed within target hole THL and a section  240  of extension portion  232  is disposed above or otherwise outside of the target hole. In this manner, it is ensured that a section of connector fitting  214  having a significantly reduced cross-sectional dimension (i.e., extension portion  232 ) is disposed along grass surface GSF such that an incoming golf ball (e.g., golf ball GBL) will contact the section of the connector fitting  214  having the significantly reduced cross-sectional dimension (i.e., extension portion  232 ). As a non-limiting example, extension portion  232  can have a length of at least 6 inches with section  238  extending into target hole THL at least 3 inches and section  240  disposed above or otherwise outside of the target hole at least 3 inches. In such cases, golf flagstick assembly  200  can be constructed such that there is no diameter change along the flagstick from at least 3 inches above grass surface GSF to at least 3 inches below the grass surface. In situations in which a pre-existing conventional flagstick is being modified, it may be desirable to maintain the approximate overall length of the original flagstick, as is represented in  FIG.  10    by reference dimension ORL. 
     Another example of a method of assembling a golf flagstick assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can include providing a pre-existing, conventional flagstick CFS, such as is shown in  FIGS.  1  and  10   , for example. The exemplary method can also include separating elongated, single flagstick segment EFS into two or more flagstick portions, such as flagstick portions  204  and  208 , for example. In some cases, single flagstick segment EFS can be separated into three or more portions, such as flagstick portions  204  and  208  as well as a flagstick portion  242 . In such cases, one or more of the flagstick portions can be removed or otherwise eliminated from flagstick assembly  200 . In the exemplary arrangement shown in  FIG.  11   , for example, flagstick portion  242  is removed and replaced by connector fitting  214 , which has been positioned between ends  206  and  210 . An exemplary method in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can also include providing a passage or recess (e.g., recesses  224 ) extending into flagstick portions  204  and/or  208 , such as from along end surfaces  226  thereof, for example. It will be appreciated that, in some cases, such passages or recesses may be pre-existing in flagstick portions  204  and/or  208 . In such cases, the exemplary method can include sizing or resizing any such existing passages or recesses. In either of such cases, the passages or recesses are preferably dimensioned to cooperatively receive a corresponding one of connector portions  220  and  222  of connector fitting  214  in a suitable manner, such as may facilitate the formation of a flowed-material joint and/or a mechanical interconnection, for example. 
     As is represented in  FIG.  11    by arrow AD 1 , flagstick portion  204  and connector fitting  214  can be displaced relative to one another such that end  206  of the flagstick portion operatively engages end  216  of the connector fitting, such as by connector portion  220  being at least partially received beyond end surface  226  into recess  224  of flagstick portion  204  as is shown in  FIGS.  8 ,  9 ,  12  and  13   , for example. Similarly, arrow AD 2  can represent flagstick portion  208  and connector fitting  214  being displaced relative to one another such that end  210  of the flagstick portion operatively engages end  218  of the connector fitting, such as by connector portion  222  being at least partially received beyond end surface  226  into recess  224  of flagstick portion  208  as is shown in  FIGS.  8 ,  9 ,  12  and  13   , for example. 
     In some cases, flagstick assembly  200  can also include one or more connector sleeves  244  and/or  246  disposed on or along flagstick portions  204  and/or  208 , respectively. If included, the one or more connector sleeves can provide additional radial support to any connection or joint formed between connector fitting  214  and the corresponding flagstick portions. In some cases, connector sleeves  244  and/or  246  can have a press, transition or clearance fit with the respective one of flagstick portions  204  and/or  208 . In such cases, a flowed-material and/or mechanical connection or joint (e.g., crimped or swaged arrangement) can also, optionally, be formed between the connector sleeve and the corresponding flagstick portion. In the arrangement shown in  FIGS.  8 ,  9  and  13   , it will be recognized that connector sleeve  244  and connector portion  220  are axially co-extensive along flagstick portion  204 . Additionally, or in the alternative, connector sleeve  246  and connector portion  222  can be axially co-extensive along flagstick portion  208 . Connector sleeves  244  and/or  246  can include inner surfaces  248  and outer surfaces  250 , and can include a longitudinal length extending between opposing end surfaces (not numbered). The connector sleeves can have inner cross-sectional dimensions and/or outer cross-sectional dimensions. In some cases, the inner cross-sectional dimensions can be at least approximately the same for connector sleeves  244  and  246 , and/or the outer cross-sectional dimensions can be at least approximately the same for the connector sleeves. In other cases, connector sleeve  244  can have an inner cross-sectional dimension and/or an outer cross-sectional dimension that differs from the corresponding cross-sectional dimension of connector sleeve  246 . 
     It will be appreciated that elongated flagstick segment EFS can be separated into two or more sections or portions in any suitable manner and/or through the use of any suitable technique or process, such as is represented in  FIG.  10    by dashed lines  252  and/or  254 . As non-limiting examples, lines  252  and/or  254  can represent separating elongated flagstick segment EFS into two or more sections or portions by cutting, sawing, shearing and/or severing. As indicated in  FIGS.  10  and  11   , elongated flagstick segment EFS can be separated into portions  204 ,  208  and, optionally,  242  having corresponding portion lengths PL 1 , PL 2  and PL 3 , respectively, which at least approximately total original overall length ORL of the elongated flagstick segment. In some cases, it may be desirable to construct flagstick assembly  200  such that an overall flagstick length OAL ( FIG.  12   ) thereof is at least approximately equal to original overall length ORL of the elongated flagstick segment. In such case, it may be desirable for flagstick portions  204  and  208  to be positioned in spaced relation to one another by approximately the length of flagstick portion  242  (i.e., length PL 3 ). Accordingly, extension portion  232  of connector fitting  214  can have an approximate length EPL that is less than length PL 3 , and connector fitting  214  can have an overall length CPL that is greater than length PL 3 . In some cases, in an assembled condition of the flagstick assembly, recesses  224  and  228  in ends  206  and  210  of flagstick portions  204  and  208 , respectively, can at least partially define a distance PL 3 ′ that is approximately equal to overall length CPL of the connector fitting such that the overall flagstick length OAL ( FIG.  12   ) thereof is at least approximately equal to original overall length ORL of the elongated flagstick segment. 
     As used herein with reference to certain features, elements, components and/or structures, numerical ordinals (e.g., first, second, third, fourth, etc.) may be used to denote different singles of a plurality or otherwise identify certain features, elements, components and/or structures, and do not imply any order or sequence unless specifically defined by the claim language. Additionally, the terms “transverse,” and the like, are to be broadly interpreted. As such, the terms “transverse,” and the like, can include a wide range of relative angular orientations that include, but are not limited to, an approximately perpendicular angular orientation. Also, the terms “circumferential,” “circumferentially,” and the like, are to be broadly interpreted and can include, but are not limited to circular shapes and/or configurations. In this regard, the terms “circumferential,” “circumferentially,” and the like, can be synonymous with terms such as “peripheral,” “peripherally,” and the like. 
     Furthermore, the phrase “flowed-material joint” and the like, if used herein, are to be interpreted to include any joint or connection in which a liquid or otherwise flowable material (e.g., a melted metal or combination of melted metals) is deposited or otherwise presented between adjacent component parts and operative to form a fixed and substantially fluid-tight connection therebetween. Examples of processes that can be used to form such a flowed-material joint include, without limitation, welding processes, brazing processes and soldering processes. In such cases, one or more metal materials and/or alloys can be used to form such a flowed-material joint, in addition to any material from the component parts themselves. Another example of a process that can be used to form a flowed-material joint includes applying, depositing or otherwise presenting an adhesive between adjacent component parts that is operative to form a fixed and substantially fluid-tight connection therebetween. In such case, it will be appreciated that any suitable adhesive material or combination of materials can be used, such as one-part and/or two-part epoxies, for example. 
     It will be recognized that numerous different features and/or components are presented in the embodiments shown and described herein, and that no one embodiment may be specifically shown and described as including all such features and components. As such, it is to be understood that the subject matter of the present disclosure is intended to encompass any and all combinations of the different features and components that are shown and described herein, and, without limitation, that any suitable arrangement of features and components, in any combination, can be used. It is to be distinctly understood claims directed to any such combination of features and/or components, whether or not specifically embodied herein, are intended to find support in the present disclosure. 
     While the subject matter of the present disclosure has been described with reference to the foregoing embodiments and considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the structures and structural interrelationships between the component parts of the embodiments disclosed, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the embodiments illustrated and described without departing from the principles hereof. Obviously, modifications and alterations will occur to others upon reading and understanding the preceding detailed description. Accordingly, it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the subject matter of the present disclosure and not as a limitation. As such, it is intended that the subject matter of the present disclosure be construed as including all such modifications and alterations.