‘Some time yet’ before Open competitions return, says Scottish Golf

But travel restrictions to be lifted

Sunningdale will host the Senior Open when it is played in 2021. Picture: Warren Little/Getty

Scottish Golf has said it is likely to be “some time yet” before open competitions are given the green light at clubs in the home of golf due to Covid-19 restrictions.

The message was delivered by Karin Sharp, the governing body’s chief operating officer, in an update on the sport’s journey out of lockdown.

From today, golfers will not be faced with travel restrictions other than in the south-west of Scotland due to the spike in cases around Annan and Gretna.

Toilet facilities at courses can also re-open today subject to the implementation of appropriate hygiene routines.

From Monday, clubs will also be able to take advantage of the Scottish Government allowing outdoor hospitality with social distancing, with 15 July the “target date” for clubhouses re-opening.

But, from next Friday, anyone enterring a professional shop will have to wear a face mask after that instruction was delivered by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon for shops in general.

“At this time there is no change in stance on the playing of competitive golf, with only club competition permitted despite the relaxation of travel restrictions,” said Sharp.

“This decision is based on the continuing premise that we are operating under an extension of exercise and not a return to sport.

“While we do not have any set date for Open competitions, elite amateur or indeed professional events, we do want to be as open and transparent as we possibly can to allow our stakeholders to assess any plans they may currently have in place.

“At present, it is not currently envisaged that these type of events will return for some time yet.”

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