Golfers waste no time to return
Golf finally returns – in perfect weather
They’re back in the swing of things at golf courses across Ayrshire.
And players couldn’t wait to tee it up from dawn on Friday when lockdown restrictions began to lift.
Although social distancing measures remain in place, the fairways have once again been reclaimed by handicappers bidding to shoot low.
Pictured at Prestwick St Nicholas are Ann Cumming ( Ladies Section captain), left, and Annette Paterson ( past club captain).
Golf courses in South Ayrshire reopened on Friday for the first time since the UK lockdown.
And the droves of players who returned to the fairways were greeted with glorious sunshine.
It could not have been a better return to action as players eagerly teed off for the first time in more than two months.
Some starters reported ‘ early birds’ on the first tee at 6am no less, as players dusted off their spiked shoes, donned their polo shirts and shorts and got back into the swing.
Yes, there were a few stray shots, a few lost balls and some missed sitters– which draws out the frustration that all golfers experience from time to time.
But Friday wasn’t just about shaking off that rustiness in your swing, or seeing if your short game had improved.
It was about being allowed to pursue a pastime that so many have missed considerably.
It was also about being back among friends and experiencing that camaraderie.
At the moment players can only go out as a two ball and tee times on the council courses are only every 15 minutes. There is no turn up and play and rounds have to be booked.
Special mention also goes to the legions of green keepers out there who’ve worked tirelessly to prepare the courses for the inevitable return.
One golf diehard, Susan Coyle, said on Friday: “I walked the golf course at 7am at Seafield, in Ayr. The course was in fantastic condition due to the hard work of all the green keepers and staff.”
But the game would be nothing without the players who were well briefed on the social distancing rules and carried out their on- course obligations impeccably.
Karin Sharp, Scottish Golf boss reflected on Friday’s big return and said: “What a day, we really couldn’t have asked for weather for the return of golf cotland.
“Over the last days, it has been fantastic to the anticipation building, with many wonderful photographs videos of courses.
“The green and volunteers the length and of the country are to be congratulated for their hard work, under ential maintenance guidelines prepar for the return.
“The enthusiasm and excitement to be back has been great to see and I am
sure there were many golfers up with the lark and heading out for a game.
“The feedback from many clubs has been of full booking sheets and lots of new member enquiries, which is really positive and I am sure welcomed by clubs given the uncertainty .
“I have no doubt there will be challenges ahead across the golf industry but for now let’s enjoy the walk in the sunshine, the fine courses, the friendships and health benefits of being back out on the course.”