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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The Keep Golf Open petition launched by the UK Golf Federation was taken down after Monday’s announcement by the Government to put the UK into a lockdown.
Picture by ANDY HISEMAN / MAGIC HOUR MEDIA

THE Keep Golf Open petition launched by the UK Golf Federation – which gained more than 21,500 signatures in just seven days – has been removed.

The decision followed UK Government announcement warning people to stay at home and avoid all social gatherings, on Monday, as the spread of the coronavirus showed no sign of slowing.

UK Golf Federation chief executive Doug Poole said: “Our intention was to highlight how golf is one of the rare sports which can be played safely during the COVID-19 outbreak – to promote golf’s many positive benefits for your health and wellbeing – and to do what we could to help thousands of golf clubs and related businesses to remain trading safely during this unprecedented time.

“However, this is no longer a time for campaigning. Instead it is a time for us all to follow the new government advice to stay indoors, act responsibly, and minimise the spread of COVID-19.

“If you voted in the petition and shared it with friends, you have our thanks.

“The overwhelmingly generous support which the petition received, both from golfers and from all corners of the golf industry itself, emphasises the valuable role which our much-loved sport plays in millions of lives in the UK.

“But for now, please stay indoors, stick to the new rules which are there to keep us all as safe as possible.”

The petition was launched a week ago after the Government’s Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance told the House of Commons Health Select Committee he thought golf was a good and “safe” form of exercise.

Sir Patrick said as long as players observed social distancing advice and took simple hygiene precautions both on and off the course, there was no need for golf courses to shut.

England Golf and the governing bodies for Scotland, Wales and Ireland issued advice to the near-3,000 clubs in the UK and Ireland on Tuesday, confirming that all golf clubs, courses and driving ranges should close immediately.

Only greenkeeping staff have been exempted as essential workers in the industry to carry on basic maintenance and ensure security.

Club secretaries and managers are left with the job of trying to claim business rate relief and apply for government support for those companies forced to lay off staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

But many PGA professionals face a more uncertain future as the majority are self-employed – and the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak has yet to confirm details of a proposed scheme that matches the fund paying up to 80 per cent of workers’ wages, up to a limit of £2,500 a month.

Mr Poole added: “Good luck during these unpredictable times and we’ll see you on the golf course again soon.

The PGA has a dedicated page on its website to help members and golf clubs keep up to date with the latest information about the COVID-19 outbreak.

Irish Government follows UK lead and closes all golf facilities

THE Golfing Union of Ireland and the Irish Ladies Golf Union issued advice to close all golf facilities in the Republic of Ireland, late on Tuesday afternoon, after the Eire Government followed the UK’s lead on closing all golf facilities.

A GUI spokesman said: “Following the recent announcements by the UK and Irish Governments in relation to the coronavirus pandemic, the GUI and ILGU recommend that all golf clubs, practice facilities and courses across the island close with immediate effect until April 19.

“You will appreciate that this is a very fluid situation with new developments almost daily.

“We will continue to liaise with the appropriate authorities, and will ensure that our clubs are kept informed as to recommended best practice at all times.”

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Boris Johnson announcing on TV the lockdown that has led to the closure of all UK golf clubs

GOLF clubs across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland have been forced to close after Boris Johnson announced a lockdown across the UK to combat the coronavirus outbreak, on Monday night.

England Golf responded on Tuesday morning with the advice to all clubs and golf centres, including driving ranges and studios, in the country.

It came after the Prime Minister’s statement 12 hours earlier, which resulted in the closure of thousands of “non-essential shops” across the UK, following the closure of bars, theatres, cinemas and restaurants last week – and with the public ordered to stay at home unless absolutely necessary.

In its online statement, chief executive Jeremy Tomlinson said: “It is England Golf’s position that this deeply regrettable, but highly necessary and responsible course of action must be implemented with immediate effect and be maintained until further notice.

“The government has identified an urgent need to introduce new restrictions on public life and on non-essential businesses opening their doors.

“This has been done to limit the spread of the coronavirus and relieve the growing pressure on our National Health Service.

“Keeping golf courses open is simply no longer compatible with the updated policy of government, which is designed to save lives in a time of national emergency.

“The health and wellbeing of the nation is the only consideration that matters at this moment in our history.

“These are incredibly testing times for the country. The golf industry cannot be shielded from the economic and social ramifications caused by this temporary shutdown of normal life.

“We would like to assure the golfing community that England Golf staff will continue to work remotely with all affiliated golfers, clubs and counties to try and minimise the damage caused by this suspension of regular golf club life.

“We will continue to signpost clubs and counties to the latest government advice and schemes designed to help the economy cope with the disruption caused by coronavirus.”

Scottish Golf have advised all clubs north of the border to comply with Boris Johnson’s

Scottish and Welsh Golf back advice

SCOTTISH Golf appealed to all golfers to respect the Government’s ban on leaving home to play the sport announced by Boris Johnson on Monday.

A statement issued late on Monday night said: “While golf is an outdoor sport that allows players to exercise in the fresh air, the message to all of us is clear – we must stay home and play our part in containing the spread of COVID-19.

“With this in mind, Scottish Golf asks that all golfers in Scotland refrain from golfing until further notice.

“We understand this advice will have a significant impact on golf clubs across the country and we will continue to consult with industry partners to provide clubs with all information and support possible during this time of deep uncertainty.

“We know these decisions are difficult ones to make, but right now, it is our shared responsibility to prioritise the health of our local communities by working together to follow the Government guidelines.

“In doing so, this will ensure we get the opportunity to play the game that we all love as soon as it is safe to do so.

A statement on the Welsh Golf Union website said: “While golf is a sport with many health benefits, keeping golf courses open is no longer compatible with Government policy, which is designed to save lives in a time of national emergency.

“This action is vital and we must stay home in order to contain the spread of COVID-19 and relieve pressure on the National Health Service.

“These are incredibly testing times for the country and the golf industry but, during this unprecedented period, we will be working very closely with all affiliated clubs.

“Wales Golf staff will be working remotely to support and advise clubs as much as possible.”

It added that COVID-19 updates, industry guidelines and Government advice can be found at Wales Golf’s website.

Anyone with any questions for Wales Golf can email office@walesgolf.org

Golf can still be played in Eire – for now

THE situation is more complicated in Ireland – the Golfing Union or Ireland has two governments to deal with – the UK covering Northern Ireland and the Irish Government covering the Republic of Ireland.

A statement on the GUI website said: “It is the view of the GUI and Irish Ladies Golf Union that all golf clubs in Northern Ireland must close their facilities with immediate effect.

“Such closures will have a significant impact on golf clubs, and we continue to consult with industry partners to provide clubs with all information and support possible during this time of deep uncertainty.”

In the Republic, the guidelines issued last week on playing golf in Ireland have yet to be changed, following the move by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

A spokesman said: “The GUI and ILGU have consistently reflected the advice of expert medical professionals in advising our member clubs.

It is anticipated that an update on the period of restriction will be made soon by the Irish Government, after which we will issue an updated statement in relation to golf in the Republic of Ireland.

“You will appreciate that this is a very fluid situation with new developments almost daily.

“We will continue to liaise with the appropriate authorities, and will ensure that our clubs are kept informed as to recommended best practice at all times.”

All four golf Home Unions have already cancelled their national championships in the first two months of the season, plus national squad coaching sessions.

A number of meetings – connected with the introduction of the World Handicapping System – have also been called off in England, Scotland, Wales and on both sides of the Irish border.

Greenkeepers have been told they can carry on working during the coronavirus lockdown

Greenkeepers get greenlight to carry on working

BOTH the Scottish and Irish golf bodies confirmed that greenkeeping staff could still attend work under the Government’s list of essential workers following Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s lockdown.

The GUI added: “For security and essential maintenance purposes, greenkeeping staff can still attend work.

“All work must be carried out in strict accordance with government guidelines on social (physical) distancing.​

“Clubs should divide course staff into two teams where possible and if one becomes unavailable, the other team will still be okay to work.​

How advice on playing golf changed in a week

LAST week, the UK Golf Federation – representing some 600 proprietary clubs across the UK – had called on the Government to allow golf to continue across the country as a “safe sport” during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The UK Golf Federation called on golfers to sign an online petition to keep clubs open last week before Prime Minister Boris Johnson put the country into lockdown

The UKGF seized on Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance’s comments that playing golf was a good way for the public to exercise, providing social distancing and simple guidelines on preventing coronavirus transmission were followed.

Sir Patrick had answered an MP’s question while giving evidence at the House of Commons Health Select Committee, on March 24.

MP Dean Russell asked Sir Patrick who has been advising Boris Johnson and his Cabinet: “If someone wants to play golf, can they still do that if they are not close together?”

The science expert, who has been one of a team advising Government ministers and the Prime Minister on how to contain the COVID-19 virus, said: “It is OK – if you keep a distance.

“We’re not asking everyone to be completely isolated. The specific advice is to avoid close contact.

“A walk is OK if you keep a distance.”

Golf UK Federation chief executive Doug Poole called on golfers to carry on playing – while taking care to reduce risks of being exposed to the coronavirus – launching an online petition to “Keep Golf Open.”

With many clubhouses closing bar and catering services, a large number of golf clubs were keen to remain open to help their businesses survive the COVID-19 pandemic, which has spread around the world in the last three months.

But now golf club owners, managers and secretaries are clamouring to obtain government financial aid packages announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequor Rishi Sunak, last week.

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England Golf and other Home Unions have issues advice to golf clubs in the last 24 hours on how to combat the spread of the coronavirus (COVID 19)

ENGLAND Golf has urged clubs across the country to seek out the latest guide on the coronavirus outbreak as more and more sporting events across the country come under threat.

An England Golf spokesman said: “In light of the developing situation with the COVID-19 outbreak – we have issued the following guidance to all our affiliated golf clubs and golfers.

“We fully recognise the need to adhere to the expert advice available and as such we would point all our clubs in the direction of the guidelines set out in detail by Public Health England via its website.

“Details on how best to cope with the virus can also be found via the World Health Organisation website which will provide rolling updates and the best ways to mitigate against the spread of the infection.

NHS England also provide updated and expert advice via its website.

“All golf clubs should note, act upon and continually monitor the advice and guidance issued by these expert authorities in relation to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

“It is important that we all work together, following the advice of qualified professionals, in controlling the spread of COVID-19.

“This remains a very fluid situation and England Golf will continue to take their lead from the government and public health authorities when it comes to safeguarding our clubs and members – and offering practical and necessary steps to ensure the health and wellbeing of golfers and golf club staff.”

England Golf chief executive Jeremy Tomlinson said: “The expert practical advice that is available from the health authorities and national government should remain the first point of reference for all our golf clubs and golfers.

“This is clearly a fluid and developing situation and we will continue to monitor events as they progress and pass on the relevant information to our stakeholders.

“By working in alignment with those who are specialists in this field, we will be able to take the necessary precautions and provide the correct measures to deal with the COVID-19 outbreak.”

•The European Tour cancelled last week’s Magical Kenya Open and two events in China and Malaysia, will not take place in April, while this month’s Hero India Open has also been cancelled.

Golfing Union of Ireland

GUI issue list of do’s and don’ts

MEANWHILE the Golf Union of Ireland issued a specific list of areas of concern for golfers and golf clubs over the coming days and weeks.

The GUI said in an online statement: “Golf is a great sport for people generally to get out and about, exercise and enjoy fresh air.

“It is played in an outdoor setting where the risk of contracting COVID-19 is low.

“All golf clubs should, at this time, aim to keep their members and staff safe and well.

“As such, everyone should be keenly aware of the vulnerabilities golf clubs will face,” the statement added.

The GUI and Irish Ladies Golf Union also announced that a number of coaching sessions, matches and tournaments were being postponed through March.

The Irish Girls Open Strokeplay Championship (April 3-5) was also called off because of the international field the latter attracts.

The GUI issued the following checklist for its member clubs to observe:–
•The older age profile of golf club memberships than of the general population must be borne in mind

•Groups having close and prolonged contact should be avoided

The social aspect of clubs should be curtailed, the GUI added, including limiting the potential for social interaction in accordance with the guidelines issued – including:–

•Siren starts with people congregating before and after are discouraged for the time being

•Prolonged near-contact as may happen during Bridge nights, choir practices and other clubhouse-based activities is to be avoided

•Visitors should be discouraged for the time being – or require some form of screening

•Society bookings where food and social interaction is involved should be limited in accordance with the latest guidance​

•Common courtesies – handshakes and other embraces associated with the etiquette of the game – should be avoided. Participants may “bump elbows” as an alternative

•Social meals for groups in the clubhouse, including at inter-club matches, should be avoided.

‘Increase spaces to cut transmission risk’

The GUI said golf clubs should also observe the need for the following:–
•Increase social distancing through greater space between seating in clubhouses

•Ensure availability of hand-sanitisers and regular changing of towels

•Ask members not to come into the clubhouse with colds or any symptoms of COVID-19

•Regular cleaning of surfaces including door handles – hourly in public places

•Handling of scorecards in club competitions is a vulnerability – committee members are strongly advised to wear gloves

•Since the revision of the Rules of Golf in 2019, scorecards can now be in electronic form (via phone app etc.,) – committees can specify a method of electronic certification if that option is taken.

You can read the GUI’s latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak by clicking here.

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