The governing body for amateur golf in England has reacted to Boris Johnson's proposed roadmap out of lockdown and what it means for golf
England Golf ‘Extremely Disappointed’ By Prime Minister’s Announcement
England Golf is “extremely disappointed” that courses in England won’t be allowed to reopen until March 29 at the earliest.
The response comes after UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed his four-part ‘roadmap’ out of lockdown, with the return of golf included in the first stage.
RELATED: What Condition Will Courses Be In Post-Lockdown?
However, the governing body for male and female amateur golf in England is unhappy with the decision, insisting the evidence shows there is no reason to delay so long.
“England Golf is extremely disappointed that the scientific evidence presented to government detailing how the sport can be played in a Covid-secure manner has not resulted in a return to play date earlier than 29 March,” the statement read.
“We will examine the details of the government’s roadmap before making further comment and working with our community of clubs, counties and golfers to prepare the game’s safe return.”
The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf also commented, adding: "A meeting of the APPG with industry bodies is scheduled to take place this Wednesday (24 February) to consider the impact of the statement on the sport in England, and the full details are now being reviewed by the industry bodies, specifically the impact of the different levels on different aspects of golf including playing, coaching, retail, and club fitting, as well the implications for driving ranges and practice facilities."
RELATED: Gym CEO Labels Golf A 'Rich People's' Sport
When golf does return in England, fourballs will be permitted, with people allowed to meet up in groups of six from a maximum of two households.
As for pro shops, they'll be able to open again on April 12, the same date that outdoor catering will be allowed, while golfers will have to wait until stage three to enter clubhouses.
It means Scotland remains the only place in the UK where recreational golf can be played, with those North of the border able head out on the course in pairs.
-
How Adam Scott Helped Shape The Design Of The Two New L.A.B. Golf PuttersToday marks the exciting release of the L.A.B. Golf OZ.1 collection. Let’s take a closer look at what golfers can expect…
-
The Three Most Confusing Rules In Golf And How To Interpret ThemAt times, golf’s rules can be complex and confusing. Here we look at three of the most confusing rules in golf and give you the info you need to understand them.
-
Is This FootJoy's Most Exciting New Golf Shoe In Years?Dan Parker discusses whether the new FootJoy Fuel golf shoe has the potential to be FootJoy's most exciting to date...
-
Governing Bodies Crack Down On Distance As Driver Shaft Lengths LimitedThe R&A and USGA have introduced a new local rule to ensure professionals and elite amateurs do not use 48-inch driver shafts
-
Five-Year-Old Prodigy Raising Money And Awareness For Organ DonationGeorge is taking on the challenge to raise money and awareness for organ donation
-
Robert MacIntyre Returns To Shinty After Ryder Cup DisappointmentThe left-hander has been in action for his local shinty side, Oban Celtic
-
Pro Plays 36 Holes In Under 80 Minutes To Win British Speedgolf ChampionshipBuckinghamshire professional Luke Willett took the British Speedgolf title
-
"A Real Kick In The Teeth" - Greenkeeper After "Embarrassment" Course CommentsWe chat to James Tibbles, head greenkeeper at Andover GC, after he was subject to negative comments on the course's condition
-
Tiger Woods' 2002 Backup Putter Sells For $393,300Tiger Woods' 2002 Backup Putter Sells For $393,300
-
Olivia Lee Wins 2021 Peter McEvoy TrophyOlivia Lee has become the first female to win the historic Peter McEvoy Trophy.
