Spring Round "What Are the COVID-19 Etiquette Guidelines?"

Wearing Masks, Waving Hands Instead of Handshakes, Clearing Bunkers with Feet and Clubs, Playing with Pins in Place

In response to COVID-19, it is considered etiquette to place the flagstick and play.

[Asia Economy Reporter Nowrae] The novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) has changed the landscape of golf courses.

All staff wear masks, and thorough measures are taken such as disinfecting and sanitizing frequently touched areas like golf carts before and after rounds. Golfers heading out for rounds in spring must also observe 'COVID-19 etiquette.' Wearing a mask is basic. You will encounter staff during check-in and other users in the lobby or restrooms. Remember that masks are also effective in blocking fine dust.

Upon arriving at the clubhouse, a temperature check is conducted first. It is a minimal safety measure for everyone. Even when meeting acquaintances after a long time, handshakes are prohibited. Instead, greet with a light fist bump or a simple wave. On the course, walking is preferred over riding in carts. When moving to the next shot, carry a few extra clubs to minimize face-to-face contact with the caddie.

After a bunker shot, do not use the rake; instead, smooth the sand flat with your golf club or foot. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A), which governs golf rules worldwide, recently issued several guidelines in response to the spread of COVID-19. These are temporary recommendations due to concerns about infectious disease spread. Golf courses may not provide rakes or may prohibit their use. This is to minimize direct and indirect physical contact as much as possible.

On the green, do not remove the pin. Since the R&A and the United States Golf Association (USGA) significantly revised the golf rules last year, allowing 'putting with the flagstick,' there is no confusion about this. Putting with the flagstick in place increases the chance of success. A bonus is that play time is shortened. After finishing the round, exchange light nods of encouragement with each other. Before leaving the golf course, wash or sanitize your hands thoroughly.