Golf course maintenance during Covid-19 lockdown

23 March 2020 – Dear Golf Unions, Golf Clubs and Golfers,

With due consideration to the National Disaster pronounced by State President Cyril Ramaphosa on 15 March 2020, and with reference to the National Coronavirus Command Council’s decision to enforce a nationwide lockdown for 21 days with effect from midnight on Thursday 26 March, GolfRSA would like to communicate the following:

GolfRSA is in support of the lockdown and the closing of all golf clubs and facilities as well as no playing of golf during the lockdown.

It goes without saying that the Corona Virus situation is a very serious world-wide crisis.

It is vital that, as an industry, golf plays an important role in helping to combat and contain this virus by adhering to the restrictions and measures that have been put in place by the South African government for the nationwide lockdown.

Since the announcement of the lockdown many clubs and golf unions have been asking for clarity relating to playing golf and also to the maintenance of the golf courses.  Our understanding is that basic maintenance of golf courses would be essential for the industry in order for golf to recover in the most economical manner once the lockdown is over.

Should golf courses fall into a state of disrepair due to the grass and greens dying, or becoming damaged beyond repair, then that would lead to more job losses and more hardship for the industry as a whole.

GolfRSA is sending a letter to government today in relation to the maintenance of courses.  This letter has been drafted in consultation with the PGA of South Africa and the Club Management Association of South Africa.  We have been advised to send it to the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), Mr Nathi Mthethwa.

GolfRSA will continue to communicate with the relevant authorities in order to seek guidance and clarity during these difficult times.  We wish everyone good health and urge all golfers to follow the guidelines that will help to limit the spread of this pandemic.

Kind Regards,

Grant Hepburn
Chief Executive Officer – GolfRSA