How to Golf Safely During COVID-19
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Happy National Golf Month! In honor of August being National Golf Month, and golf gaining popularity as a socially distant activity during the COVID-19 pandemic, all of us at Strellis and Field wanted to share some tips on how to stay safe and healthy on the course. Make sure to follow all local, state, and federal ordinances and regular Coronavirus safety guidelines before you head out to the course. Here are a few golf-specific health tips and ideas of some items to bring along to the fairway:
Bring a mask
There is a Mask Mandate in the state of Illinois that requires people to wear either a face mask or facial covering in public places. Bring a mask to wear when around the Clubhouse and in other congested areas. It is also recommended to wear a mask while interacting with any golf course staff to keep you and them safe. Each golf course has its own rules, but you will likely be to take off your mask once you are playing and have enough room to remain at a safe distance away from others.
Bring Hand Sanitizer and Wipes
Think of it as an addition to your golf towel! Hand Sanitizer is always a good idea and an easy way to clean your hands after touching surfaces or before you touch your items to keep them clean. Try to sanitize before and after you touch new surfaces. For example, once you pick your ball up or go to sit on a bench. Think about wiping down pushcarts or golf carts before you use them as well.
Maintain your distance
It will not be difficult to stay more than six feet away from anyone you are playing golf with on the course. Just try to be mindful and aware that you should stay separated. This is easy on the fairway, but if you need help being reminded try to only have one golfer at a time on the green and in the tee box. Also, do not high five, shake hands, hug, or fist bump. We know you want to celebrate your great shot but try an air high five instead. The use of golf carts are not advised, but if you choose to use one wipe it down before and after you use it and try to only share golf carts with members of your household.
Bring your own water
Everyone should make sure they are staying hydrated in the sun even when we are not in the midst of a pandemic, but the best and safest way to do this is by bringing your own water. By using your own water bottle, you are reducing the number of things you are touching at the course, and thus reducing the amount of germs you may pick up.
Bring extra tees and balls
A pandemic is not the best time to be sharing tees and balls with your golf partners as it increases the likelihood of germs being spread.
Bring a snack
Most courses are limiting their beverage and good service to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, so bring a snack to keep you energized for the whole 18 holes!
New Bunkers
We know you probably never hit a shot into a bunker, but in the rare instance that you do, be advised that golf courses have removed bunker rakes. You can smooth out the sand by your shoes, or purchase your own mini rake (that you will disinfect after each use, no doubt!). Also, according to the United States Golf Association rule 16.1, players can take free relief in bunkers when faced with abnormal course conditions. A global pandemic definitely counts as an abnormal condition. If you want to learn more about the specific USGA rules during COVID-19 click here.
We hope these tips will help you and your loved ones stay safe while getting out to exercise and socialize from a distance on the course! If you are interested in reading about any other Strellis and Field safety tips and informational blogs you can find them here.
