OUR NEW NORMAL: GETTING OUT OF THE ROUGH
Due to the increased spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, We are going to take a focus on how the various Public, Federal, and Private golf courses are addressing the reality of the Novel Coronavirus. We hope to give additional insight to these ongoing changes to our Community at MyScorecard and Outdrive Me so to better avoid the spread of the infectious respiratory disease.
Please note: During this current phase of the pandemic, Public and Federal courses do not allow for any groups larger than a Foursome.
Below are links that identify the current trends and developments in the United States:
New York Times Corona Interactive Map
PUBLIC AND FEDERAL GOLF COURSE GUIDELINES – WEAR YOUR MASK!!!!!
Of the 4 Greater Washington Metropolitan Public and Federally owned golf courses surveyed, a unanimous refrain from their staffs was that guests are not respecting the CDC guidelines these establishments are forced to adhere by. The most broken rule is that of wearing a mask. Most often the attendant or employee of the golf course will be too timid to enforce the rule or guests will just blatantly disregard the requirement entirely. CDC data has revealed that a primary route of transmission of the disease is likely via small droplets that are ejected when speaking, coughing or sneezing. Masks are viewed as effective as a “source control” because they can prevent larger expelled droplets from evaporating into smaller droplets that can travel farther. Please do your part as a member of your community and READ and FOLLOW the guidelines, restrictions, and regulations that are designed for your safety provided by your attended golf course.
PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING:
So You Wanna Give Your Homie/Homegirl Dabs…
We’ve heard it ad nauseam: *6 FEET APART. That’s the spacing and distancing required by each individual to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. However, recent studies have suggested that 20 feet of distance and a mask is the most sure fire way to stay safe. That’s obviously ridiculous when golfing with a friend or someone that you are comfortable and familiar with. I get it. How difficult is it NOT to acknowledge a killer Drive, sweet Approach shot, or beautiful Layup to stave off a potential disaster? You know the feeling!!! Similar to the time you nailed a scientific Fade that let you off the hook from a bad Shank…You know the immediate reaction is that your Homie/Homegirl will want to give you dabs of some sort. Unfortunately, a handshake, high five, or a hug is not advisable during this pandemic. The best suggested practice when combating COVID-19 while golfing is to avoid body contact and to steer clear of the exchange of equipment amongst partners or groupings. Hands touch too many surfaces and can quickly pickup viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your face, from where the virus can move inside of your body, making you feel unwell. Probably best to acknowledge a certain feat with a fist bump or a tip of the cap.
PACK A SNACK
Although I highly recommend that you support all local small businesses and establishments during this crucial time, the restaurants affiliated with Public and Federally owned golf courses are mostly limited to a reduced Carry-Out Menu. At the risk of an 1hr 1/2 or 2 plus hour drive, it would probably be wise to pack a sandwich or a snack just in case their offerings aren’t to your liking due to the lack of variety . Golfing 9 between Four participants who are primarily chopping it up could take way longer than expected. This is one way to ensure that you’ll have enough sustenance to carry through the day.
PRIVATE GOLF COURSES GUIDELINES
Well, looks like you’re successful at what you do! If you’re reading this you have the luxury of golfing at a private estate or you have a friend in a very high place. At this point in life, you may feel invincible. Just remember: COVID-19 does not distinguish between Prince or Pauper. Please adhere to the suggestions listed above to ensure safety for yourself and others.
In addition: The PGA continues to monitor this situation closely. We will keep our Community posted on all updates.
PGA TOUR update on protocols for positive/symptomatic cases – PGA Tour
PGA Tour scraps plan to have fans at Memorial due to COVID-19 – Reuters