The classic game in the new normal

As we have endured a year of adjusting to the new normal and continue with our daily lives in the safety of our homes, we cannot deny that many of us long for a change of activities and surroundings as long as we adhere to the safety protocols against the spread of COVID-19. Golf is one of the perfect games during this current climate as the nature of the sport greatly suits the basic COVID-19 prevention guidelines such as social distancing and as a no-contact outdoor activity.

Golf clubs will be answerable to The IATF or the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging of Infectious Diseases if members do not strictly adhere to the following guidelines:

• Participants must wear face masks at all times;
• Caddies and forecaddies must not touch the players’ equipment;
• Clubs must allow only a maximum of three players per flight;
• Only one player per golf cart is permitted, although sharing would be allowed between spouses and family members;
• Clubs must increase tee time intervals between flights to a minimum of 15 minutes apart;
• Pins must not be touched. The cup must be raised by one inch so that any ball that hits the raised cup shall be deemed holed or similar modifications must be made to make retrieving the ball more contact-less;
• Golfers must leave the course as soon as possible or once play is done to eliminate congestion;
• No tournaments should be held until further notice.

Golf clubs must also adhere to the guidelines specifically required for their facilities to ensure the safety of their members and employees. The IATF also released Resolution No. 89 which “directs the National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP) to cease and desist in the expansion of permissible accessory activities in golf clubs such as the reopening of locker rooms for golfers, among others…”

You can also contact your golf club to know more about their protocols and advise them of your visit so that they can ensure not only your quality golf experience, but also your safety and well-being.