Wales Golf launches social media campaign to attract lapsed and new golfers

Wales Golf is seeking to help clubs capitalise on the re-opening of courses by encouraging a return to the sport through a dedicated #WalesBack2Golf social media campaign.

With a relaxation of the Coronavirus lockdown allowing a phased return to golf, the national governing body has moved quickly to support clubs and promote the benefits of the sport.

Targeted both at golfers and non-golfing families who have perhaps sampled golf at home during the period of restrictions or who are unable to play their usual sport due to COVID-19, the campaign from Wales Golf covers three areas: mental health, daily exercise and family/household golf.

While there is a stringent list of conditions for golf’s return in line with Government guidelines – including adherence to social distancing – golf has an opportunity to capitalise on being an outside activity which can be safely enjoyed while other sports remain in lockdown.

Encouraging members back to their clubs, but also targeting beginners and potential new golfers, Wales Golf has designed various social media posts to promote the physical and mental benefits of the sport. New and returning golfers are being encouraged to use the hashtag #WalesBack2Golf across social media. The hashtags are aligned to Wales Golf’s ongoing #New2Golf and #Back2Golf coaching programmes, which target new and lapsed golfers across the country.

Hannah McAllister, Director of Golf Development, Wales Golf, said: “The Coronavirus pandemic has had a huge impact for everyone in society, including golf clubs and golfers. We are delighted there has now been a relaxation of restrictions, allowing clubs in Wales to re-open but with a very different version of club life for now. While a number of government protocols need to be strictly adhered to, notably social distancing, we are encouraging golfers and perhaps new golfers along to clubs through our #WalesBack2Golf social media campaign promoting physical and mental health.”

She added: “Thousands of golfers will be very keen to return to the fairways, while we are targeting families and households who have perhaps enjoyed golf at home and may now want to try it at a course. We are also aligned to the #BeActiveWales campaign which is a co-ordinated effort in Wales to help keep every person active.”

Wales Golf is also promoting a social media infographic to clubs to highlight procedures they need to introduce and follow as part of re-opening, in accordance with national guidelines. Information includes advice for before, during and after your round and promotion of social distancing at all times.

McAllister added: “As part of the Wales Golf risk assessment, we have worked closely with other golf bodies and relevant government departments in developing and agreeing the necessary protocols to help ensure that golf is as ready as it can be to re-start in a safe manner.”