Scottish Golf has announced Friday, 29th May as the date for a return to the fairways of Scotland.
And as first reported by www.golfbytourmiss.com a fortnight ago the return to golf in Scotland will commence with a 5-mile residence rule in place.
However, full confirmation of a return has to be approved by the Scotland Government and that would now seem a formality when First Minister Nicola Sturgeon again addresses the nation next Thursday May 28th
Ahead of the return to golf, Scottish Golf released a 9-page statement ‘Golf now included in Government’s Relaxtion of Lockdown Restrictions – Phase 1 – 29 May 2020’ to the 550 clubs across Scotland.
“It is imperative that golf clubs take the necessary steps outlined prior to opening their courses for play and adhere to the guidelines, which could be subject to update or change at any time,” said Scottish Golf.
The very strict procedures have been established to ensure a safe environment for all golfers and all on-site staff and set out the basis on how golfers can return to the fairways in a safe environment as outlined by the Scottish Government’s Phase 1 relaxation of restrictions.
Sunrise over the 3rd hole of the Balcomie Links at Crail Golfing Society.
Not only are golfers expected to comply with the rules they must also observe the government and public health
restrictions.
To ensure the safe return to golf in Scotland, golfers have been asked to strictly adhere to the guidelines:
In advance of play:
• Travel to the golf course from your home must be in line with Scottish Government guidelines – in phase 1 local travel is noted as broadly 5 miles from home.
• If you are in the highest risk (shielding) group outlined by the Government, then you should stay at home.
• If you are ill or have any symptoms of COVID19 then stay at home.
• Schedule your tee-time in the manner prescribed by your golf club. Under no circumstances should you arrive at the club without booking in advance.
• Tee group sizes will be determined by the Golf Club.
• Ensure you have enough golf balls, tees etc. as the facilities at the Golf Club may be closed and you should not exchange
equipment with other members.
• Aim to arrive at the Club no more than 15 minutes prior to play.
• Park your car in such a way as to facilitate physical distancing – one car space
• Change your shoes in the car park
On the course:
• Do not arrive at the first tee more than 5 minutes before your allotted tee time.
• Always observe social distancing rules on the course.
• With no rakes allowed on the course, golfers to make their very best efforts to smooth the sand using their club and/or their feet.
• Following play of a hole, do not enter the next teeing area until the all members of the group in front have played their tee- shots and exited the teeing area.
• Do not share equipment, food or drink with other players during your round.
• Do not use on-course water fountains, ball cleaners etc.
• Do not touch the flag or flagstick. Putt with the flagstick in and remove your own ball from the hole. Remember not every putt needs to be holed out in casual golf.
After your round:
• Return directly to your car, change your shoes, put your equipment in your car and leave. Do not store your equipment in your locker.
In addition, following guidelines should be observed:
• Use toilet facilities at home before you leave.
• Bring your own hydration / food to the course.
• Bring your own hand sanitiser to the course and use regularly during the round
