Northern Ireland’s golf clubs are to be allowed to stage club competitions and host fourballs from June 8, as the country moves into phase two of its relaxation of its Covid-19 lockdown measures.
All clubs have been issued guidance on running competitions during the pandemic. The task of administering competitions, performed by volunteer committee members, maybe more labour intensive in the current circumstances and golfers have been advised of the additional time is likely to be required to finalise results and update handicaps.
Outdoor group activities can also resume during this phase, and the process of reintroducing junior activity to golf clubs is included in the updated protocol.
The protocol, as agreed with government, the Golfing Union of Ireland and the Irish Ladies Golf Union, sets out the basis on which golf can be played in a safe manner.
Golfers are expected to carry on observing the underlying public health guidance, including following travel restrictions and social distancing as set out at www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/coronavirus-covid-19 and www.publichealth.hscni.net/. These rules are subject to change and golfers are asked to check www.golfnet.ie regularly for updates.
Golf courses re-opened for play in Northern Ireland on May 18, with two-balls only.