The invention provides a golf ball material composed of (i) a
non-ionomeric thermoplastic resin, (ii) an ionomeric resin and/or an
acid-containing polymer which is the base polymer of an ionomeric resin,
and (iii) a norbornene dicarboxylic anhydride and/or a derivative
thereof. Methods for preparing such a material, and a golf ball which
includes as a component therein a part made of the golf ball material are
also provided. The golf ball material has a good thermal stability, flow
and processability, and can thus be used to obtain high-performance golf
balls endowed with an excellent rebound resilience, durability and
flexibility.