The new World Handicap System gives every affiliated club member in Great Britain and Ireland a handicap index which combines with the course rating to work out the player’s handicap whichever course in the world they are playing at

THE World Handicap System (WHS) has come into effect for golfers in Great Britain and Ireland.

Developed by The R&A and USGA, in close collaboration with existing handicapping authorities, the WHS provides all golfers with a consistent measure of playing ability, with handicaps calculated in the same way wherever they are in the world.

Launched in January 2020 and now live in more than 65 countries, the WHS provides golfers with a unified and more inclusive handicapping system for the first time.

The WHS is implemented and administered at the local level by national and regional golf associations around the world with England Golf, Scottish Golf, Wales Golf and Golf Ireland taking on this significant responsibility within GB&I.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, restrictions on golf are currently in place in Wales and Ireland and are expected later this week in England.

WHS will be in operation from today (Monday, November 2) onwards, and as play resumes when restrictions are lifted.

The introduction of the WHS marks a considerable change for golfers in GB&I.

It will replace the previous Unified Handicapping System developed over many decades by the Council of National Golf Unions (CONGU).

While it may take golfers some time to get used to the new system, and for transition handicaps to settle down, the feedback received from elsewhere in the world strongly suggests the WHS will help them to enjoy their golf all the more.

For the first time, it will provide them with a handicap index which is a more responsive measure of their ability, and a course handicap which reflects the difficulty of the course being played.

The new system is designed to modernise handicapping by adapting to the way golfers now like to play and makes it easier for new golfers to participate.

It will also enable golfers who play all of their golf in GB&I to compete equitably against golfers from other clubs, as well as golfers from other countries, which is an important step forward for the sport.

The new World Handicap System incorporates elements from CONGU’s along with elements from all eight governing bodies worldwide. Picture by LEADERBOARD PHOTOGRAPHY

WHS’ key features were inspired by the best features of the six main handicap systems that previously existed around the world, including the CONGU system – so some will already be familiar to GB&I players.

The key features of the system include:–

• A course rating system which sets out a consistent method of evaluating the difficulty of a golf course from each set of tees, with a player’s handicap index being adjusted to take account of the difficulty of the course being played
• Flexibility in formats of play, allowing both competitive and recreational rounds to count for handicap purposes and ensuring that a handicap index reflects demonstrated ability
• A minimal number of scores needed to obtain a new handicap – with the number of scores needed to obtain a new handicap being 54 holes from any combination of 18-hole and nine-hole rounds. Some discretion is available for national or regional associations
• An average-based calculation of a handicap index, taken from the best eight out of the last 20 scores and factoring in memory of demonstrated ability for better responsiveness/control
• A calculation that considers the impact that abnormal course and weather conditions might have on golfers’ performance each day
• Timely handicap revisions
• A limit of nett double bogey on the maximum hole score – for handicapping purposes only
• A maximum handicap limit of 54, regardless of gender, to encourage more golfers to measure and track their performance, and so increase their enjoyment of the game

To learn more about the World Handicap System visit WHS.com.

For WHS information specific to a country, use the association finder for further information.

•A course handicap calculator is available at www.randa.org and materials specific for GB&I golfers can be found by clicking here.

How you calculate your new course handicap using the new handicap index system under the WHS system introduced by The R&A and USGA from November 2, 2020

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The Dubai Duty Free Irish Open will be played in Northern Ireland for a fourth time in September when Galgorm Castle hosts the event which has been switched from Mout Juliet

THE Dubai Duty Free Irish Open will be played in Northern Ireland for the fourth time since 2012 when the Galgorm Castle Golf Club hosts September’s tournament.

It will be the first time the County Antrim venue has hosted Ireland’s national Open with the event moving into the date vacated by the rescheduling of the 2020 Ryder Cup to 2021.

But the event will lose its Rolex Series status for this year and the prize fund has been cut – in line with the events put on as part of the new UK Swing this summer.

The 2020 Ryder Cup would have been a celebration of Irish golf with three-time Major Champion Padraig Harrington captaining Europe in the contest at Whistling Straits.

The winner of the Open in 2007 and 2008 will become the third European captain from either side of the Irish border in the past four contests.

While the Ryder Cup will now take place next September, the 2020 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open at Galgorm from September 24-27.will mark a new chapter in the tournament’s history after the European Tour’s announcement about the switch of venue.

It was originally scheduled to take place at County Kilkenny’s Mount Juliet Estate, from May 28-31.

But it was postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic at the end of March.

With quarantine restrictions for travellers into the Republic of Ireland ongoing – and the ban on mass gatherings still in place – the European Tour made the decision to move the tournament to Northern Ireland.

That will mean it will be subject to similar guidelines to the current ‘UK Swing’ events, including being played behind closed doors.

Mount Juliet will be working hard to stage the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open in 2021

European Tour hope to return in ’21

PLANNING remains on-going for the tournament to return to Mount Juliet next year, providing all health guidelines in place at that time can be met.

This year’s Dubai Duty Free Irish Open will have a prize fund of €1.25million and therefore will not be part of the Rolex Series.

The European Tour will announce full plans for the Rolex Series in due course, it said on Friday.

The Dubai Duty Free Irish Open will, however, continue to drive Ireland’s status as a future Ryder Cup host country. The Ryder Cup’s centenary and the centenary of the Irish Open both fall in 2027.

Chief executive Keith Pelley said: “The Dubai Duty Free Irish Open is an integral part of the European Tour’s schedule and despite the obvious challenges of staging any event in the current circumstances, we felt it was important to continue with the tournament providing we could do so safely.

“We did that, first and foremost with the support of Colm McLoughlin and everyone involved with our title sponsor Dubai Duty Free who once again showed commitment and understanding of the current global situation.

“We also did it with the support of the Northern Ireland Executive, who deserve our sincere thanks.

“With the ongoing restrictions in the Republic of Ireland, we opted to move the tournament to Northern Ireland, and are extremely grateful to Gary Henry and everyone at Galgorm Castle Golf Club for stepping up to host us.

“I also want to thank Damien Gaffney and everyone at Mount Juliet, our original venue.

“Everyone at the Kilkenny course was ready to host the tournament this year until circumstances outside their control made that an impossibility.

“Hopefully, things will be different next year to allow us to return.”

Sponsors put health and safety first

DUBAI Duty Free chief executive Colm McLoughlin emphasised that staging an event that put the safety of players, staff and volunteers was paramount.

Mr McLoughlin said: “We have been working closely with the European Tour over the past several months to find a way of staging the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open this year.

“The priority of course has been to stage an event that strictly follows all government protocols in light of COVID-19 and to ensure the safety of players and all those involved in the event.

“We are pleased the Galgorm Castle Golf Club has been selected as a suitable venue, with the Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort as the official accommodation.

“Without a doubt, the tournament will be different this year, but we think the players and fans are going to enjoy this return to world-class golf on the island of Ireland.”

Diane Dodds, Northern Ireland’s Economy Minister, said: “It is wonderful to see top class golf return to Northern Ireland.

“After the success of the Open Championship at Royal Portrush last year and of recent Irish Opens in Portstewart, Royal County Down and Royal Portrush, Northern Ireland is proving once again that it is made for golf.

“I want to thank the European Tour and Tourism NI for its work in bringing this prestigious event to Northern Ireland – and to Galgorm for stepping in to host it.

“This will be another opportunity to showcase to the world how Northern Ireland and international golf work well together. I know it will be a huge success.”

Galgorm Castle has been a regular venue on the European Challenge Tour since 2013

Galgorm Castle will also host Northern Ireland Open

GALGORM Castle’s managing director Gary Henry said: “We are delighted to be the host venue for the 2020 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open.

“This outstanding tournament is steeped in history and we look forward to welcoming some of the best players in the world to Galgorm Castle Golf Club.

“To host the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open is an historic moment and wonderful opportunity to showcase the world-class facilities at Galgorm and demonstrates that Northern Ireland is open for business.”

The Challenge Tour’s Northern Ireland Open, supported by The R&A, will also be played at Galgorm at the start of September, he said.

Mr Henry added: “So the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open will be another welcome boost to the local economy.”

Tetrarch Capital director Damien Gaffney said: “Naturally everyone at Mount Juliet Estate is disappointed we cannot host the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open this year.

“But we totally understand and appreciate the reasons why. We will continue to work with the European Tour and put our energies into staging the event here next year.”

Galgorm Castle Golf Club has hosted the Northern Ireland Open on the European Challenge Tour since 2013.

Last year it staged the innovative – the ISPS Handa World Invitational Men|Women tournament, presented by Modest! Golf Management, which featured both a men’s and women’s competition.

Royal Portrush became the first course north of the Irish border to host the Irish Open since 1953.

Welshman Jamie Donaldson claimed his maiden European Tour title on that occasion.

The event returned to Northern Ireland in 2015, when Dane Søren Kjeldsen won at Royal County Down. And in 2017 Spain’s Jon Rahm triumphed at Portstewart Golf Club, the first of his two Irish Open victories to date.

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Dutchman Daan Huizing won the Northern Ireland Open at Galgorm Castle in 2013 – the European Challenge Tour event returns to County Antrim in September

THE Northern Ireland Open will return to Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort in September – helping to kickstart tourism in Country Antrim.

The Challenge Tour event will take place from September 3-6 – with support from The R&A – and offer a €200,000 prize fund.

It will be the first of two back-to-back events on the island of Ireland forming a key part of the European Challenge Tour’s 2020 Road to Mallorca schedule.

The Irish Challenge follows on September 10-13 at a venue still to be confirmed by the European Challenge Tour.

The announcement follows the overall Challenge Tour strategy for the reshaped 2020 season of playing events in regional clusters where possible.

The tournament will be backed by The R&A COVID-19 Support Fund – a £7million package to help golf deal with the impact of the global pandemic.

The R&A’s Fund is providing an additional £300,000 in support of the Challenge Tour in 2020 on top of its existing annual grant.

The Northern Ireland Open will be subject to stringent safety and medical protocols set out in the Challenge Tour’s comprehensive Health Strategy.

It will proceed subject to Government and health guidelines at the time of the event.

The Galgorm Golf & Spa Resort is one of Northern Ireland’s top destinations

Season reshaped by pandemic

CHALLENGE Tour head Jamie Hodges said: “We are delighted to be able to add the Northern Ireland Open to the 2020 schedule as we continue to reshape the season due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The R&A is dedicated to supporting golf and its additional support this year has been crucial in helping us to stage this event.

“Our thanks also go to Galgorm Castle, a venue that our members know well, and always enjoy playing, and to Tourism Northern Ireland and Mid & East Antrim Borough Council for their valued support.

“While there will be no formal graduation to the European Tour this year, adding events like this to the Road to Mallorca will provide playing opportunities and experience for the stars of the future.

“It is hugely important for our members in the current circumstances.”

Kevin Barker, The R&A’s director of Golf Development, said: “We are pleased to be able to support the Challenge Tour in running this event, and to help to provide the players with another opportunity to compete in what has been such a difficult period for them.

“Through The R&A Support Fund we are trying to provide assistance at all levels of the game from grassroots through elite amateur golf, and on to emerging professionals.

“Following the huge success of The Open at Royal Portrush last year, we are also excited to see this important championship being played at Galgorm Castle, another of Northern Ireland’s outstanding venues.”

The seventh hole on Galgorm’s Championship Course, which will host the Northern Ireland Open again in 2020.

Galgorm Castle Estate a ‘premier destination’

THE parkland Championship Course is nestled in the heart of the 220-acre Galgorm Castle Estate.

It is part of Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort – Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hotel and spa destination.

It is an established venue on the Challenge Tour, having hosted events every season since 2013.

Most recently the ISPS Handa World Invitational Men|Women, which was presented by Modest! Golf Management, was held there in 2019.

Galgorm Castle managing director Gary Henry said: “We are delighted golf is returning to Galgorm Castle and Northern Ireland.

“The Northern Ireland Open is a real positive for the area. We are operating within stringent government guidelines for an event that will help kickstart the tourism economy and generate significant bed nights and spend by bringing players, staff and media to the local area.

“TV coverage of the event will enhance the message that Mid & East Antrim and Northern Ireland is open for business.”

Leanne Rice, Tourism NI’s marketing manager, said: “We are delighted to support the Northern Ireland Open this year.

“Bringing a European Challenge Tour event to Northern Ireland is a fantastic opportunity for our economy and tourism industry as it starts to recover.

“The tournament will deliver significant economic benefits while providing international exposure for Northern Ireland as a premium golf destination.

“Our golf clubs and wider sector have been significantly affected by the pandemic and we are delighted that participants will get to enjoy our fantastic golf product, with the appropriate health and safety guidelines in place.”

Mayor backs bid to kick start tourism sector

MID and East Antrim Mayor councillor Peter Johnston said: “I am delighted to give my support to the Northern Ireland Open in the world-class surroundings of Galgorm.

“An event as prestigious as the Northern Ireland Open is a major asset for the area at any time. But particularly so this year in terms of helping our tourism and hospitality sectors to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The council is leading on a major tourism campaign to support our local sector, called #RediscoverMEA, and the Northern Ireland Open aligns perfectly with that.”

Following the suspension of the season in February, the Challenge Tour re-started with the first of two dual ranking events in Austria last week – the Austrian Open – won by Scotland’s Marc Warren – followed by this week’s Euram Bank Open.

•The Northern Ireland Open is the next scheduled event from September 3-6, with details of further events from September through to the end of the season to be confirmed in due course.

The Challenge Tour draws on relationships with golf federations and PGAs around the world to create an international schedule for golf professionals from across the globe.

It gives players from developing golfing nations the opportunity to test their skills among some of the most talented up-and-coming stars.

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Tim Henman supporting the Golf Foundation at the 2018 Open at Carnoustie

IN the week that should have been the 149th Open Championship, the Golf Foundation is channeling the spirit of “golf’s greatest tournament” to grow the game for juniors in golf clubs, schools and at home.

The Golf is Open for Kids digital campaign aims to inspire more boys, girls and families brand new to golf with a series of fun activities for all abilities.

It will also keeping established juniors enthused, playing and loving their golf together.

The #GolfisOpenforKids campaign will also offer practical advice for PGA professional coaches and school teachers so they can deliver group golf sessions while Covid-19 restrictions still apply.

The Golf Foundation charity is also calling on all golf clubs to support youngsters so they can enjoy fair time on the fairways when golf tee bookings are in high demand during the week the 149th Open Championship should have been played at Royal St George’s.

The R&A were forced to call off The Open at the famous Sandwich venue because of the COVID-19 crisis.

Instead, opportunities now include pointing youngsters towards PGA coaching offers at the charity’s network of junior-friendly HSBC Golf Roots Centres.

Youngsters will be encouraged to create and demonstrate their own adventure golf courses at home, and running a daily Open Championship player quiz.

Activities, games and coaching resources can all be accessed at https://bit.ly/2Om6t7W

Foundation backs Open for the Ages

THE Golf Foundation team will also be supporting The R&A’s ‘The Open for the Ages’ project.

It culminates in a three-hour broadcast production showing many of the best players of the last 50 years battling it out for the Claret Jug at the home of golf, St Andrews.

In normal years, the Foundation’s team would be present at The Open all week as guests of The R&A, its strongest supporter.

Normally coaches would welcome thousands of young people and families, introducing them to golf, only yards away from the fairways of the The Open Championship venue.

For some time, the Foundation has enjoyed a highly positive link during the week of The Open with HSBC – official sponsor of the charity’s national Golf Roots programme which gives a golf experience to more than 500,000 young people in schools and the community each year.

Around 45,000 extra youngsters have visited a golf club in the last year via the initiative.

Tennis star Tim Henman has always been a keen golfer, playing off single figures. Picture by ANDREW GRIFFIN / AMG PICTURES

Henman to watch Frilford session

HSBC ambassador Tim Henman has agreed to support the #GolfisOpenforKids campaign by visiting his local HSBC Golf Roots Centre

The 45-year-old, who grew up at Weston-on-the-Green, and still lives in Oxfordshire, will be at Frilford Heath Golf Club, on July 18.

The former Wimbledon tennis star will join in with a junior coaching session at the Oxfordshire club where European Tour winner Eddie Pepperell is also a member.

Henman said: “I’m delighted to be involved in this campaign and to help highlight the great work that HSBC does with the Golf Foundation through HSBC Golf Roots – an initiative that gives 500,000 children the opportunity to try the game each year.

“Golf has so many health and well-being benefits and helps teach mental resilience and life skills to young people who take up the game.

“These life skills are now more important than ever and I’m thrilled to add my support to the #GolfisOpenforKids campaign.”

Andrew ‘Beef’ Johnson is another European Tour winner who has supported the HSBC Golf Roots campaign to introduce Trigolf into the classroom.

Open door to help youngsters says Pyle

CHIEF executive Brendon Pyle said: “The Golf Foundation creates life changing opportunities for young people using the power of golf.

“We will all miss showcasing our work to the public in what is normally an amazing week in golf’s calendar.

“However, our team of passionate regional development officers is still determined to reach out and introduce new youngsters to golf with our activity and demonstrate how The Open embodies everything great for young people when learning the game and its life lessons.

“It’s fantastic that Tim Henman is supporting this important week for us.

“At its end, we may not be watching the next Open Champion together.

“But we certainly hope all our friends in golf clubs and schools will have helped thousands of boys and girls to enjoy some golf – wherever they hit the ball – to learn something good about the game and perhaps even dream of being a future Open Champion, or Women’s British Open Champion.

“This would make it a wonderful week for our young golfers.”

The Golf Foundation team plans to repeat the positive messages during the calendar week of the AIG Women’s British Open (August 17-23).

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Golf clubs can reopen their clubhouses next week – provided they carry out risk assessments and ensure strict hygience procedures are followed to minimise transmission of COVID-19. Picture courtesy of The PGA

GOLF bodies in England have welcomed further changes to COVID-19 lockdown rules and restrictions.

But they have made it clear they remain vigilant as golfers and staff return to play and work.

Following the changes announced yesterday by Boris Johnson – which come into effect on July 4 – golf clubs should be able to reopen their clubhouses and resume catering and bar services.

And those courses which have onsite holiday apartments, flats and chalets in particular, can look forward to increasing revenues after a barren three-month spell during lockdown.

With holiday bookings recommencing in England – allowing overnight stays for the first time since March 23 – golf clubs can look forward to allowing more visitors out on the fairways.

Clubs will have to work out the maximum number of customers they can safely accommodate, taking into account the new social distancing guidelines (see below).

A statement on behalf of the PGA, the Golf Club Managers’ Association (GCMA) and BIGGA – representing greenkeepers across the UK – said: “In the first instance, a risk assessment should be carried out, the details of which should be shared with your workforce.

“For organisations of over 50 employees, this should be published on your website.

“In order to make it more viable for the hospitality industry to open, the government has given scope to relax the current two metres social distancing rules in certain instances in favour of ‘one metre-plus’, which means remaining one-metre apart – while taking other mitigation to reduce the risk of transmission.”

Clubhouses across England should be able to resume serving food and drink from July 4

Clubs must keep records for 21 days

EVERY club that serves food and drink must keep a record of customers for 21 days to assist with NHS ‘Track and Trace’ requests.

They must provide clear guidance on arrival at the venue regarding social distancing and hygiene measures in place.

Table service will be preferred using mobile phone apps to place orders. And contactless payment should be used wherever possible.

In instances where bar or counter service is unavoidable, customers will not be allowed to remain at the bar after ordering.

The statement added: “All involved in golf in England should review the full guidance as soon as possible so they can begin putting in place the necessary steps to ensure your business can continue to open-up safely.”

England Golf chief executive Jeremy Tomlinson welcomed the latest relaxation of lockdown restrictions which mean clubhouses can reopen

England Golf chief executive Jeremy Tomlinson said: “The work done by those involved in golf during lockdown has been tremendous.

“And that has enabled us to respond quickly and decisively. Like all, we welcome the safe easing of restrictions and look forward to welcoming back even more people – players and staff – to golf.

PGA chief executive Rob Maxfield said “Golf professionals have been working incredibly hard in recent weeks since golf returned.

“And with restrictions easing, we hope to see more people getting to clubs throughout England and the UK.

“We will encourage our members to review the updated guidance and put in place the steps they need to ensure people can get back onto courses as soon as possible.”

“That we have been given time to prepare the changes and the way in which the guidance has been presented is very helpful to clubs, shops and the wider industry.”

Social distancing can be relaxed to one metre – but extra restrictions to reduce transmission will be required such as not sitting face to face in bars and restaurants and wearing masks

New COVID-19 lockdown rules

HOUSESHOLDS face less restrictions on gatherings indoors and outdoors in England following the Prime Minister’s announcement.

The biggest change sees the minimum social distancing rule of two metres being relaxed to one – although health advisers want the public to wear masks wherever it is difficult to maintain the two-metre gap.

Scotland, Ireland and Wales continue to introduce their changes on a different timetable to Westminster.

As part of its regular series of meetings with golf bodies, the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf met immediately after the Prime Minister’s Statement on Tuesday afternoon.

They discussed the upcoming changes and their implementation, as well as how the industry is responding to current Government regulation.

Speaking on behalf of the group, North Warwickshire MP Craig Tracey – its chairman – said: “Golf as an industry worked hard to be one of the first sports to resume as restrictions were lifted.

“All industry bodies involved in the group have worked closely together to ensure adherence to lockdown rules have been implemented, sharing their experience to ensure golfers, club staff, and the wider industry, have returned securely.

“The feedback we have received is that golfers have returned to the sport with enthusiasm, and did so complying to social distancing rules.

“Those who have been working should be praised for their part in ensuring that smooth transition and are confident the easing of restrictions will be no different.”

On the timing of the relaxed lockdown rules, Tracey added: “For those of us in England, we have been given time to consider the new rules.”

He added they should be used to, “consider the implications fully and put in place the necessary steps the sport needs to continue to rebound quickly and – above all – safely.”

Scotland expects to reopen pubs from July 15

In Scotland, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said the five-mile restriction on travel for recreation and leisure should be lifted from July 3.

Pubs and restaurants will be allowed to reopen north of the border from July 15.

In Northern Ireland, holiday accommodation will be allowed to open from Friday, June 26, while pubs and restaurants will be allowed to open from July 3 – giving golf clubs the same freedoms.

Wales First Minister Mark Drakeford has said decisions on lifting restrictions on hospitality and the holiday sector will be taken in early July.

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Graeme McDowell – winner of the 2020 Saudi International – has withdrawn from this week’s PGA Tour event the Travelers Championship after his caddy tested positive for COVID-19. Picture by GETTY IMAGES

US OPEN champion Graeme McDowell has withdrawn from this week’s Travelers Championship in America, after his caddy tested positive for COVID-19.

The Northern Ireland ace, who lives in Florida, pulled out of the PGA Tour event in Connecticut, on Tuesday night after it was confirmed caddy longstanding Ken Comboy had been diagnosed as having the coronavirus.

McDowell told an American website:”For the protection of the field and for my own physical and mental well-being, I’m going to take a test tomorrow morning then jump on a private plane.”

The pair had spent six hours driving in a car from the RBC Heritage at Harbour Town in South Carolina, back to their Florida base, after missing the cut on Friday.

Having left the PGA Tour bubble, Comboy was reported to have felt unwell.

The popular caddy returned from Lake Nona to Harbour Town to request a test from the PGA Tour.

McDowell, who then travelled to TPC River Highlands for this week’s Traveler’s Championship, admitted he feared he would become the next player to be tested positive.

Known as G-Mac throughout golf, Graeme said: “I’d been through a huge amount emotionally and mentally, and a couple of weeks back into it after a few months off you’re going to be a little tired getting your golf legs back.

“But the alarm bells have started to ring now that Kenny has failed this test.

“We’re a close-knit team. We roomed together last week, we spent six hours in a car.

“He’s carrying the virus so in some way I have to be carrying it too,” said McDowell, who won the 2010 US Open at Pebble Beach.

McDowell, a past winner at Harbour Town, missed the cut on Friday in the RBC Heritage and travelled back to his Florida home by car with caddy Ken Comboy

McDowell and Champ withdraw

CADDY Ken Comboy and McDowell are one of longest-running partnerships on Tour, and recently celebrated his 14th win at the Saudi International in February.

The Ryder Cup ace played a practice round at TPC River Highlands, on Tuesday, with Shane Lowry and Brooks Koepka and his brother Chase – a former European Challenge Tour player.

Chase came through Monday qualifying to earn his start in Thursday’s event.

Nick Watney became the first PGA Tour play to test positive for COVID-19, last Friday, after the tour staged its second event at Harbour Town – a week after the sport returned with the Charles Schwab Cup in Texas.

And on Monday, Cameron Champ became the second player to fail the coronavirus test after the PGA Tour bubbule moved to the north east, in the USA.

The World No. 79 will have to self-isolate for at least 10 days before he can rejoin the PGA Tour bubble, assuming he then does not test positive again.

Champ is one of the longest hitters on the PGA Tour. He burst into the world’s top 100 after the Web.com Tour graduate made his breakthrough win less than two years ago.

He won the Sandersons Championship, in October 2018, in his second start of the wraparound season – and just his eighth Tour start in total.

The TPC River Highlands course in Hartford, Connecticut, has attracted its strongest-ever field for this week’s Travelers Championship

Strongest line-up for Travelers Championship

NINE of the world’s top 10 are set to tee it up at TPC River Highlands in Hartford, Connecticut.

That is the strongest line-up in the tournament’s history. Bubba Watson has won the event three times in the last decade.

The Travelers will be the third tournament in as many weeks to be played without spectators.

What effect the latest positive tests will have on PGA Tour’s return remains to be seen.

The PGA of America confirmed on Monday that no fans will be present for the first Major of 2020.

The USPGA will be played at TPC Harding Park, in San Francisco, in early August, without any spectators on site.

The PGA Tour was expecting to allow fans to attend Jack Nicklaus’ Memorial Tournament, next month.

But the latest COVID-19 scare – along with growings signs the coronavirus is still spreading in key cities in the USA – will pile pressure on the PGA Tour over its plans to let spectators attend.

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The R&A will use the COVID-19 Support Fund to invest £7million through the national associations and affiliated bodies in the UK. Picture by ANDREW GRIFFIN/ AMG PICTURES

THE £7million R&A COVID-19 Support Fund has been launched by the game’s governing body to help golf deal with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

The fund will be largely aimed at national associations and other affiliated bodies in Great Britain and Ireland.

With the global pandemic leading to widespread temporary course closures and drastic reductions in domestic and international travel, many golf clubs and facilities are facing serious financial difficulties.

The fund is being provided to help The R&A’s affiliated national associations to support those clubs and facilities – although some of the money may be used for other activities key to the future health of the sport.

R&A chief executive Martin Slumbers said: “The pandemic is having an unprecedented impact on golf and many clubs are facing dire financial situations through no fault of their own.

“Golf is in our DNA and we want to see the sport continue to thrive from grassroots right through to the top level on the professional tours.

“We have a responsibility to do what we can to help in such a crisis.

“The R&A Covid-19 Support Fund will enable national associations and other key bodies to provide support to some of their members.

“We know many challenges lie ahead but club golf is the bedrock of our sport and hopefully this fund will help to begin the process of recovery.”

The R&A is working with its national associations – including England Golf, Wales Golf and Scottish Golf – and other selected organisations on communications.

Each body is responsible for controlling and allocating its share from the support fund.

Open’s profits fund development

•The R&A reinvests the proceeds from the success of The Open – golf’s oldest Major championship – to grow and support golf around the world.

It already provides financial support to a wide range of organisations in addition to national associations, including the European Tour, the Ladies European Tour (LET), the PGA of Great Britain and Ireland and the Golf Foundation charity.

The 149th Open Championship, which was due to be held at Royal St George’s, in July, was cancelled last month – it has been reported that the R&A was insured against such an eventuality,

There has been widespread speculation on how hard the COVID-19 crisis has hit the finances of the European Tour, which has been forced to postpone or cancel more than four months’ worth of tournaments so far in 2020.

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Rory McIlroy and Dustin Johnson claimed victory in the TaylorMade Driving Relief skins match beating Rickie Fowler and Matt Wolff, at Florida’s Seminole GC

THE scenario had been suggested… but World No. 1 Rory McIlroy made it happen when he claimed a $1.1million prize for his chosen charity by winning the TaylorMade Driving Relief skins match.

Golf North’s preview of Sunday’s multi-million dollar fundraiser featuring four of the biggest names on PGA Tour, suggested if the back nine of Seminole played ball, the £100,000 prize per hole could roll over to seven figures.

And, after McIlroy and playing partner Dustin Johnson had been matched by Rickie Fowler and Matt Wolff from the 13^th, they could not be separated as they both parred the tough par three 17^th – which was worth $200,000.

That saw the two pairs head to the 18^th tee at the spectacular Seminole Golf Club, with the skin value for the last hole rising to $500,000 – meaning the pot for the final hole stood at $1.1million.

Fowler had produced three birdies in four holes from the ninth, to lift his team’s earnings to $1.45m stood on the 13th while his partner Wolff, picked up an extra $450,000 for winning the longest drive bonuses on the second and 14th holes.

McIlroy looked to be in the best position to make birdie on 18 after Fowler found the greenside trap by the tight, right pin and Wolff found the edge of the green left from the fairway bunker.

But when Rory’s putt held out the first televised golf in the US since the first round of The Players Championship at Sawgrass, on March 12, went into overtime as the Yanks would say.

http://twitter.com/PGATOUR/status/1262412378701885441 World No. 1 Rory McIlroy hits the winning shot at Seminole GC

And after Fowler missed the green, McIlroy had to get inside Wolff’s ball, which was 18 feet from the pin after his partner Johnson had fell off the front into sand.

Under the rules, the charity challenge went straight to a nearest the pin shoot out from 120 yards on the 17^th.

And the winner of the 2019 Players Championship watched his ball hang on to the shelf left of the pin and come to rest just 13 feet from the pin.

Having seen players observe social distancing rules for three the best part of three hours, Europe’s talisman greeted his winning shot with a high five towards DJ… minus the contact, of course.

McIlroy and Johnson had not won a skin since the sixth hole as Wolff danced to Rickie’s tune when he birdied his third hole in four on the 11th, making up for the lack of cheering from the crowds, who were of course excluded.

But DJ and Rory walked away with the Lions share of the spoils for their chosen charity thanks to a final total of 11 skins against their opponents’ seven.

Left to right: World No. 1 Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson, Rickie Fowler and Matt Wolff

Final skin for $1.1m decided clash

THE final seven skins increased the winners’ total to $1.85 million which will go to the American Nurses Foundation.

Meanwhile Fowler and Wolff pocketed $1.15 million for the CDC Foundation.

The UnitedHealth Group donated the $3million for the skins contest, while TaylorMade stumped up the longest drive money.

Farmers Insurance put up extra cash for every birdie and eagle made.

Fowler, who is sponsored by the group, which promotes the PGA Tour event at Torrey Pines every January, responded by making seven birdies to earn an extra $270,000.

McIlroy’s four birdies earned his good cause $250,000 while Wolff’s three were worth $135,000.

Johnson, who was a little rusty compared to the rest, made one worth $25,000.

The total raised for frontline health workers fighting the COVID-19 pandemic was more than $5.5million.

The watching public who donated $600,000 via a text line in the USA – and corporate sponsors contributions from Mastercard, Rocket Mortgage and PGA Tour Superstore – added another $1million or so.

World No. 1 Rory McIlroy hit the winning shot in the first extra hole after the fundraiser for COVID-19 frontline healthcare workers was decided by a nearest the pin shootout

No. 1 Rory McIlroy admits feeling ‘pressure’

“It’s different,” was the verdict of World No. 1 Rory McIroy when asked about the pressure of playing for charity in the TaylorMade Driving Relief skins.

“When you’re not playing for your own money, but you’re playing for someone else and playing for another cause, it sort of starts to weigh on you a little bit.

“I’m really proud to be a part of an event to entertain the people at home on a Sunday afternoon but also to raise money for people who really need it.”

“It’s a huge effort from everyone involved,” added McIlroy, who had made a big par putt at 17 to carry the skins over to the last hole in regulation.

Wolff hit huge drives measuring 356 yards on the second and 368 yards on the 14th.

“I’m happy to raise a lot of money with the long drives,” said Wolff, who planned to auction off the rainbow-coloured Nike golf shoes he wore for the match.

The bonus cash will help Off Their Plate initiative – through World Central Kitchen – that helps both frontline healthcare workers and restaurant shift employees hit by the lockdown.

As well as giving golf starved TV fans several hours of entertainment, the fundraiser also whetted the appetite for when the PGA Tour returns next month with Charles Schwab Cup, at Colonial Club, in Texas

World No. 1 Rory said last week he plans to play the first three events on the new schedule.

Seminole is one of America’s most exclusive private golf clubs… but also one of its best

Seminole shows off why it’s so good to watching millions

SEMINOLE boasts some famous members including Rory McIlroy’s dad Gerry, while NFL quarter-back legend Tom Brady, has joined the North Palm Beach club recently.

The Florida club has an annual pro-am competition which has been won by Northern Ireland’s four-time Major winner – and by Fowler – in the past.

It was the first time the Donald Ross-designed course at North Palm Beach had been seen on TV – in May 2021 it is due to host the Walker Cup.

Seminole is famous for its wide open fairways with sandy waste areas, that make it reminiscent of Pinehurst No. 2 – Ross’s most famous creation.

And even with a 10-15mph breeze, the effects of the Atlantic breezes on shot selection and making the upturned greens so hard to find, let alone putt on, Seminole gave an insight into why it is one of the most highly-regarded courses in the States.

Great Britain and Ireland have only won the Walker Cup three times on US soil in almost 100 years of playing the best American amateurs every other year.

Any GB&I player who is hoping to be picked – should the contest be able to go ahead in 12 months’ time – will have been the most interested spectators on this side of the pond.

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Golfers in Northern Ireland should be back out on the course in the next week after the Stormont Executive approved the Golfing Union of Ireland’s protocol to ease lockdown. Picture by ANDY HISEMAN / MAGIC HOUR

GOLF is set to return in Ulster in the coming days after the Northern Ireland Executive published its Step by Step plan to relax lockdown restrictions during the COVID-19 crisis.

The Golfing Union of Ireland is working through the document so that clubs in Northern Ireland can reopen their doors – and follow those in England, which reopened after eight weeks, on Wednesday.

It distributed its latest protocol documentto clubs on Saturday – based on the protocols drawn up for the Republic of Ireland, using a five-step plan to return to full golfing activities.

During step one, as in England, golfers in Northern Ireland must observe physical distance rules at all times.

The restrictions include any practice areas which are deemed safe to use.

Clubs are required to erect signage to reinforce the “Stay Safe” message.

Players must not touch flagsticks and rakes will be removed from all bunkers.

As much course “furniture” – such as ball-washers, divot boxes, bins – as possible will be removed.

And benches which cannot be taken away should be taken out of use.

Holes should be modified to make retrieving golf balls easier – and putting greens should have the holes filled in, or be closed completely.

Juniors should play only when accompanied by an adult and wherever possible with members of their own household.

Clubhouses will only be available to use the toilets and retrieve clubs from locker rooms.

All bars and restaurants must remain closed during phase one.

No firm date set by Stormont – but GUI and ILGA hopeful it will be days

NO date was set in Stormont’s proposals released on Friday. But golf will be one of the first sports allowed to resume the golfing unions believe.

Meanwhile, Scotland’s First Minister has so far refused to follow Prime Minister Boris Johnson in signalling a return to golf.

The Golfing Union of Ireland and Irish Ladies Golf Union stressed golfers needed to adhere to the rules in their protocol.

The new rules were drawn up and discussed with the Northern Ireland Executive over the past couple of weeks.

It is based on the document sent to the Irish Government, which was published a week ago.

A joint GUI and ILGA statement said: “There is a major responsibility on golf clubs and golfers to ensure that our sport is conducted in a safe and responsible manner.

“Full adherence to the provisions of this protocol is absolutely essential.”

The Northern Ireland Executive is monitoring the coronavirus situation closely.

And it has not ruled out the reintroduction of restrictions – which could see golf clubs closed again should the protocol not be followed.

The GUI statement added: “As the Executive have chosen not to produce indicative dates for change in the steps of their plan, we reserve the right to add or subtract from any phase of the protocol.”

If putting greens cannot met social distancing rules they should be closed according to the new Golfing Union of Ireland and ILGA protocols. Picture by ANDY HISEMAN

GUI warn golfers must abide by new rules

THE GUI has called on all golf clubs in Northern Ireland to implement the protocol and stick to its key points in an email sent to each one.

The GUI and ILGU statement said: “Golf is in the very privileged position to be allowed to resume in the first step.

“This return has been based on the sport being able to demonstrate to government that it can take place in a safe, socially distant manner, which this protocol achieves.

“All clubs, golfers and staff have a shared responsibility to ensure the protocol is adhered to.

“We ask that clubs pledge their commitment to implementing the protocol by signing up using the link provided in our email.

“We are aware that there are several other unofficial guidelines in circulation.

“It should be emphasised that clubs and golfers must exclusively adhere to the protocol as published by the GUI and ILGU to ensure that we can continue to enjoy our sport in the times ahead.

“The on-going COVID-19 public health emergency remains our primary concern and overriding priority.

“The Unions acknowledge the tremendous efforts of all frontline workers, which has allowed golf and society in general to consider this gradual return to normal life.”

Golfing Union of Ireland protocol’s key points:–

• Members with colds or any COVID-19 symptoms must stay away from golf course/clubhouse
• Physical distance rules must be observed at all times – in car park, clubhouse and on the course.
• Play is restricted to members only and no competitions or opens can be held
• Tee times must be booked in advance online or by phone. Names and times must be recorded to assist contact tracing if needed
• Tee times must be 10 minutes apart (single golfers), 12 minutes (two-balls), 14 minutes (three-balls). Clubs have to choose just one format for each day

During steps two to five, which will be phased between June 8 and August 10, restrictions will be relaxed, allowing more players out on to the course,

The aim is to bring in competitive play in step three by the end of June.

Clubhouses could be allowed to reopen – subject to strict controls – by August 10.

Members will be allowed to invite guests to their clubs, in step two with visitors allowed to return in step three, from the end of June.

And juniors also will be allowed to play together again, in time for the school holidays as part of step three.

•The current version of the protocol of the Re-introduction of Golf in Northern Ireland will always be available at www.golfnet.ie

GUI and England Golf issue advice on COVID-19 outbreak

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Dundee’s Connor Syme claimed victory in the second leg of the BMW Indoor Invitational wiht an eight-under par round of 64 using a TrackMan simulator of Royal Portrush, on Saturday.

CONNOR Syme shot an eight-under par round of 64 to secure a two-shot victory to claim the second of the BMW Indoor Invitational played over simulators featuring Royal Portrush’s Dunluce Links.

The Scot finished top of a leaderboard featuring 28 European Tour players in the second of five events in the new series of virtual golf tournaments – powered by TrackMan – using the latest simulator technology.

Following his victory at the Northern Irish venue, which hosted the 148^th Open Championship in 2019, Syme claimed the first prize of €10,000 towards a charity of his choice.

The 24-year-old opted to split the winner’s cheque between two charities – FoodTrain, which supplies meals to the elderly in Dundee,, and Hospice of the Valleys, a charity close to Syme’s heart which provides palliative care.

Syme and the rest of the field – including the winner of last week’s inaugural BMW Indoor Invitational Joost Luiten – competed virtually over the historic links layout from their own homes in the one round, 18-hole strokeplay event.

Flying Scotsman’s fast start

CONNOR SYME got off to a flying start, birdieing the first two holes and picking up two more shots on the sixth and seventh, before his first bogey of the day on the eighth hole.

His round really picked up pace after the turn in an impressive five-hole stretch with an eagle on the 12^th – bookended by two birdies either side.

Despite a second bogey on the 15^th hole, it was enough to secure a two-shot win over Dutchman Will Besseling and Somerset’s Lawrie Canter, following their six-under rounds of 66.

“Seeing the scores from last week I wasn’t really sure how I would fare,” said Syme. “But it was great to get a good score around Royal Portrush.

“I played solid on the front nine and then I just went crazy for a few holes 10 through 14 – that was a cool run to go on.

“It was my first time competing in something like this on TrackMan, so I really had no idea what a good score would be. But I was very happy with the numbers.

“I’ve actually been following a program with Spencer Henderson, the Scotland U18 national coach.

“He’s been keeping us busy on TrackMan, so I probably owe a lot of this win to him. I don’t know how sharp I would have been otherwise.”

Connor Syme read about Stuart Hearn and decided to hand half of his $10,000 prize from the BMW Indoor Invitational to the Food Train charity where the football ref volunteered

Syme moved by Stuart’s story

THE new champion was pleased to be able to make a difference to two causes that are close to him for different reasons.

“Having an opportunity to make a difference with what is going on in the world is great,” said Syme.

“I’m honoured to have won and have the opportunity to hopefully change a few peoples lives.

“Half of my donation will be made to Food Train in memory of Sean Hearn, who I read about this week.

“He was a really valued member of the community in Dundee, a proud charity worker and a community football coach and referee, who gave up his time for others in the town where I live.

“Food Train is the charity he worked with and it distributes food and gives support to elderly people in the city.

“Stories like Sean’s and so many others are reminders of the people who are constantly putting themselves out there, and how many incredible people we have lost during this crisis.

“The remaining $5,000 will go to Hospice of the Valleys. A bit further away from home, but very much close to our hearts.

“My girlfriend’s grandfather unfortunately passed away a couple of days ago after a two-year battle with bowel cancer.

“Hospice of the Valleys have been with him every step of the way and $5,000 would mean a lot to them as it could offer more than a month of service towards someone like my girlfriend’s grandad – an incredible cause.”

Spain’s Adri Arnaus finished in fourth

SPAIN’S Adri Arnaus finished in fourth place at Royal Portrush behind Syme, Besseling and Canter with a four-under par round of 68.

Last week’s winner Luiten – playing in the interactive feature group with Cheshire’s ex-England Amateur Champion Paul Waring – was a shot further back alongside Norwegian Kristoffer Reitan.

Germany’s two-time Major winner Martin Kaymer finished in a tie for 13^th place after an even-par 72.

Fans were able to follow the tournament with footage shown on the European Tour’s social media channels and also streamed on the internet.

Footage can still be seen on Twitter – @europeantour and Instagram – @europeantour was well as on the European Tour’s YouTube channel and at https://bmw.trackmaninvitational.com

BMW Indoor Invitational venues and dates:
Saturday May 9 – Old Course, St Andrews (Winner, Joost Luiten)
Saturday May 16 – Royal Portrush (Winner, Connor Syme)
Saturday May 23 – Golfclub München Eichenried
Saturday May 30 – Real Club Valderrama
Saturday June 6 – Wentworth Club

Each of the five tournament winners in the BMW Indoor Invitational will receive $10,000 towards a good cause of their choice.

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