GOLF clubs are to be permitted to hold four-balls and stage competition golf from Monday.
The Golfing Union of Ireland (GUI) has released updated protocols for golfers as part of phase two of the roadmap for reopening society. The new protocols are subject to the government proceeding to phase two, which it is expected to do from Monday.
Golf clubs have been open for the last two weeks and restrictions on players will be further relaxed next week from Monday, June 8.
Clubs will then be allowed to include four-balls on their time sheets, provided they are at intervals of 14-minutes.
Competitive golf can return, but play will still be restricted to members and guests of members.
Clubhouses will stay closed, although toilet and locker room facilities can be accessed.
There is also a process of bringing back junior golf included in the GUI’s eight-page document.
“As we enter Phase 2 of the phased re-introduction of golf, there remains a major responsibility on golf clubs and golfers to ensure that our sport is conducted in a safe and responsible manner,” the GUI said.
“The task of administering competitions, performed by volunteer committee members, may be more labour intensive in the current circumstances. Golfers must be mindful, as a result, that additional time is likely to be required to finalise results and update handicaps.
“Full adherence to the provisions of this protocol is absolutely essential. Golf is in the very privileged position to have been allowed to resume at this stage and 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.
“The ongoing 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.”
A full list of the new protocols can be found here: https://www.golfnet.ie/News%20Listing%20Assets/Protocol_Phase2.pdf
