By The Post Star

26 March 2020

The New York State Golf Association said Thursday that golf can go on during the coronavirus pandemic, but with modifications.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed the PAUSE Executive Order, which went into effect on Sunday. That stated that all non-essential businesses and non-essential gatherings of any size should close or be canceled.

According to the NYSGA, the Governor’s office and regional Empire State Development directors recently provided some clarification.

Golf courses are allowed to remain open, but must implement all CDC- and state-mandated guidelines, and promote safe, social distancing. There is to be no access to pro shops, locker rooms, indoor facilities and restaurants/bars (unless for take-out purposes only).

Social distancing on the golf course should include:
  • Stay at least 6 feet away from others
  • Don’t shake hands before or after your game
  • Leave the flagstick in the hole
  • Don’t use rakes, ball washers and coolers from course
  • Don’t share clubs or any other equipment
  • If using a golf cart, limit to one person

Due to the unique COVID-19 precautions taking place at golf courses, the USGA has provided guidance on how to use the flexibility provided in the Rules of Golf while protecting public health. They also provided temporary guidance on posting scores to GHIN (begins in upstate New York on April 15), specifically when golfers don’t “hole out” for health/safety reasons.

Please share these tips, articles and insights, so that as many people as possible can benefit from #SafeGolf.

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Tagmarshal has tracked over 10 million rounds of golf. Real-time data collected by the system using small “tags” clipped onto golf bags, installed in buggies or offered on handheld or cart-installed proprietary 2Way screen devices, transmits information to on-course staff or personnel in the pro shop identifying groups that are out of position before issues arise. Player assistants can then support in a proactive, objective, non-confrontational manner resulting in improved player experience, consistent round times and player time freed up to enjoy on-site food and beverage items as well as opportunities for additional tee sheet capacity. 

More than 25 of the top 100 US courses partner with Tagmarshal including over 250 leading courses globally.    

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