Keeping Golf “Essential” During The Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Governor McMaster Issues Executive Order With Golf Able To Be Played
On March 31st, 2020, the Governor of South Carolina, Henry McMaster, issued an executive order to close ALL Nonessential Businesses in the State of South Carolina. This included many entertainment facilities and venues, certain recreational and activity related facilities and activities, along with other close-contact service providers. What remains to be great news for the state of golf in South Carolina is that golf is a sport that may continue to be played by having interaction beyond the six (6) feet social distancing recommendation from the CDC and Office of the Governor. Golf facilities are able to remain open in the state due to the minimal contact with players and/or members of the club. Golf provides many benefits during these times including mental and physical fitness along with social stimulus at a safe distance.
Executive Order : 2020-17 (Pdf)
With that being said, we must do our part in the state to keep our golf facilities open! This includes the facility staff and golfers to adhere to the current safety protocol to make sure that we are able to continue to play the game we love during the current COVID-19 pandemic. As long as golfers are allowed to play golf, we can continue to support the golf industry and clubs, unlike many other businesses that are having to shutdown and limit progress during this time.
Top 10 Ways to #PLAYGOLFSC
1) Wipe down Golf Equipment (Carts, Clubs, etc.) with a disinfectant when possible.
2) Stay beyond the six (6) feet social distancing guideline set.
3) Attempt to limit golf carts to ONE player per cart!
4) When getting food & beverage at the club/turnhouse/beverage cart - Don't Linger. Get In & Get Out.
5) Wash Your Hands - But Don't Shake Them. Yes, we all want to offer a gesture of a good game, but bump elbows instead!
6) Adhere to club and golf facility requests - Golf is undergoing certain rule changes during the COVID-19 outbreak. The club or golf facility may ask you to not touch the flagstick or bunker rakes, may ask groups to not socially gather in large groups after play, etc.
7) Try to keep Cash and Physical Card Usage at a Minimal - If you can help it, like booking tee times, call beforehand to make your tee time and give credit card information.
8) Don't share equipment or use rental sets - Help minimize the spread of any germs by using your personal equipment!
9) Get Exercise! For those that are able to walk get out and exercise to better your immune system - and take time to look at the beauty of a golf course and its surroundings!
10) Use Common Sense - The COVID-19 Pandemic is an issue that all should take serious. Let's do our part to continue to have the ability to play golf!
