Play Golf

Playing Golf with COVID-19 Restrictions

The R&A

27 May 20

3m read

The R&A has produced a series of short informative videos on how to enjoy a safe return to golf during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Provided golf is permitted to be played in your country – in line with guidance from government and/or your national golf association/federation – the videos highlight practical advice to make a safe return to the fairways for a global audience. With a focus on maintaining social distancing and minimising risk throughout, the visual demonstrations encourage all golfers to pay attention and take responsibility for their own actions before, during and after their round – as well as still having fun!

Helpful and entertaining

The content builds on The R&A’s written resources to provide golfers, golf clubs and greenkeepers with guidance and information to support them with the safe resumption of playing golf during the pandemic. Presented by George Harper Jnr, the two-minute videos provide actions for golfers across three stages: before golf; when at the course; and playing golf. Helpful and entertaining, the footage will be used on The R&A’s social media platforms, as well as the full length version on the website.

While guidance may differ across countries, key tips before a round include:

Book your tee time in advance online or over the phone, checking the maximum number of players permitted (and households) and travel guidance
Do not play if you have COVID-19 symptoms or are in high risk groups
Do not turn up more than 15 minutes prior to your tee time
Use bathroom facilities before you leave

Key tips at the course include:

Change shoes in car park and be ready to play (likely no access to clubhouse or lockers)
Keep a safe distance of two metres apart from anyone at all times
Use hand sanitiser before play and go to 1 st tee no more than five minutes before tee off
Stay clear of greenkeeping staff

Key tips at the course include:

Do not touch the pin flags
Smooth bunkers with your feet or a club
Do not swap scorecards or equipment
Do not shake hands or stay post round, return to your car and head home afterwards

Stay up-to-date

The videos also place emphasis on referring to the latest national association rules and public health guidance specific to your country. Given such information is different across the world and consistently changing, it is vital for golfers to stay up-to-date with guidelines in such unprecedented times. With golf one of the first sports to be allowed to resume in some countries, there is a major responsibility on golf clubs and golfers to ensure the sport is conducted in a safe and responsible manner. Get ready for your safe return to golf by viewing The R&A’s videos and taking on board the general advice.

Play Golf