Hole-in-none as Level 5 sees golf curtailed

GOLF has been ruled out of bounds during Level 5 restrictions, prompting an angry response from former European Tour professional Peter Lawrie.

The Golfing Union of Ireland (GUI) and the Irish Ladies Golf Union (ILGU) issued a joint statement yesterday, informing clubs that golf was not granted an exemption from restrictions.

“Following intensive engagement over the past 48 hours, we have been informed this afternoon by Sport Ireland that golf clubs must close under the new Level 5 restrictions,” the statement read.

“Essential course maintenance is permitted to continue. We have sought clarity as to whether ranges/ practice facilities can remain open for exempted activities. We will update clubs on this as soon as possible.”

Golfers in the Republic had hoped they would be allowed to play on like their counterparts in Northern Ireland by adhering to public-health guidelines.

Lawrie believes the measures are a blow to many older people who use golf as a much-needed social and mental-health boost.

“I understand and respect the social element here, where we all have to pull together to stop the spread of the virus,” said Lawrie, who now runs Spawell Golf Academy in Templeogue, a 42-bay floodlit driving range.

“But there are so many people that use the driving range and golf courses as a form of exercise and as a social outlet.

“The majority of older people use it as a social outlet.”