Golf courses to open after completing hygiene compliance protocols

Golf courses across South Africa will be allowed to open under level 3 of the lockdown with amateurs allowed to play and train again after talks between stakeholders and the ministry of sport.

According to GolfRSA courses will be required to undergo strict hygiene compliance protocols set out by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

Golf courses allowed to open

GolfRSA oversee the amateur game in South Africa and have sought government approval for the opening of clubs to members only.

Previously government had stated that only professional non-contact sports could resume with the terms then extended to include elite amateurs.

All golfers who belong to a federation, agency, club or body will be allowed to play but only courses that complete the protocols will be permitted to reopen and interprovincial travel to play the sport remains forbidden.

“GolfRSA and the Golf bodies welcome the efforts of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture that have allowed for the safe return of Golf,” GolfRSA said in a statement on Friday.

“The Golf bodies wish to thank the minister, director-general and their team of staff for their commitment to helping golf to begin exercise and training for members of a federation, agency, club or body.”

Safety is paramount

The amateur golf oversight body said they did not take their responsibility to the wider public lightly, and they would do their utmost to ensure that golf courses comply with regulations.

“Golf acknowledges and recognises that the safety of human life is of paramount importance,” GolfRSA’s statement on the decision continued.

“We appreciate the challenge presented to government to ensure an appropriate response to the threats presented by the global coronavirus pandemic. 

“As a result, we sought to ensure compliance with unfolding regulations and directives.”

Golf clubs equipped to begin reopening

GolfRSA say they have armed clubs and courses with the knowledge they require to plot a path to reopening the sport.

“Over the past few weeks, GolfRSA has equipped all clubs with Risk Mitigation Strategies and training of Compliance Officers.

“In addition to this, GolfRSA has provided all facilities with a state-of-the-art Application that allows for the scanning and monitoring of all golfers and staff,” the statement read.

“Clubs need to complete the Confirmation of Compliance Document and submit it to GolfRSA before they can open their facilities.”

CEO of GolfRSA Grant Hepburn has taken the lead in discussions with government alongside Sunshine Tour Commissioner Selwyn Nathan, PGA of South Africa CEO Ivano Ficalbi and Club Manager Association of SA Chairperson Chris van der Merwe.