Courses are warned over restart plans
Scottish Golf has said “nothing has been finalised” regarding a date for courses to reopen after being closed for nearly six weeks due to coronavirus.
The governing body delivered the message in a statement, which claimed that, ahead of any restrictions being lifted, some clubs had already been telling members they intended to reopen.
The statement read: “In response to increased speculation and rumour around timing of the reintroduction of golf, Scottish Golf can confirm that nothing has been finalised regarding a date, or any details of potential phasing with Government.
“Scottish Golf has been, and will remain in regular dialogue with scottish government, with regards to the planned procedures for the safe return of our sport when the time is right.
“We also continue to collaborate with our partners in golf throughout the UK and act as a collective at every opportunity.
“The recent update provided by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed that lockdown restrictions remain in place and the clear public health message is to stay home and save lives. This responsibilitysits with each of us and golf is no exception.”
Courses in Ireland are due
to reopen on 18 May with mileage restrictions in place, while the R&A has drawn up guidelines on how clubs can deliver “safe golf ”.
However, with the First
Minister taking a cautious approach to lifting the lockdown restrictions in Scotland, no date has yet been set for courses to reopen in the game’s cradle.
Joe Fitzpatrick, Minister for Public Health, Sport and
Wellbeing, said: “I recognise the importance of golf to many across the country, and the eagerness to return to the course as soon as possible.
“However, that can only happen once it is safe to do so – and the focus at present must be the continuation of measures to slow the spread of the virus, protect the NHS and save lives.
“The Scottish Government and sportscotland are working closely with Scottish Golf to ensure the right preparation and risk assessment is undertaken to allow golf to return at the appropriate time.”
It has been suggested that
golf’s return in the UK could start with play being limited to single golfers and two-balls from the same household.
Karin Sharp, Scottish Golf’s chief operating officer said: “It has been disappointing to hear that some golf clubs in Scotland have communicated to members their intent to reopen their golf course ahead of restrictions being lifted.
“We urge all member clubs to continue to follow the Scottish Government advice, that continues to have the best
interest of the public at heart. Golf is a sport where integrity and rules sit at the very heart of the game and we ask all golfers to respect the position of Scottish Government and show patience at a time when the virus continues to have a devastating impact on society.
“I appreciate the frustrations and desire to play golf as soon as possible, but I urge you to continue following Government guidelines and save lives.”