Golf enthusiasts return to Mbombela Golf Club
Players made their way to Mbombela Golf Club to enjoy their first rounds after more than two-and-a-half months.
Golf enthusiasts from all around the country were thrilled to hear that golf is one of the sports allowed to resume during level 3 lockdown.
The sports which are allowed were gazetted last Friday.
“I stand in gratitude to GolfRSA, to our national minister of health, and to all our members for reviving golf in our country. It’s imperative that we sustain the industry that employs 60 000 people and also affects, indirectly and directly, businesses from supply chains from across the country.
“In light of the latest amendments to the regulations, it is with gratitude that we acknowledge that the survival of the industry can hopefully return to its full esteem again,” Angelo Sebastian, Mbombela Golf Club captain, said on Saturday.
GolfRSA said in a statement on Friday that it welcomes the efforts of the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture that have allowed for the safe return of golf.
“The golf bodies wish to thank the minister, director general and their staff for their commitment to helping golf to begin training members of a federation, agency, club or body. GolfRSA acknowledges and recognises that the safety of human life is of paramount importance. We appreciate the challenge presented to government to ensure an appropriate response to the threats presented by the global coronavirus pandemic. As a result, we sought to ensure compliance with unfolding regulations and directives.
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“Over the past few weeks, GolfRSA has equipped all clubs with risk mitigation strategies and the training of compliance officers. In addition to this, GolfRSA has provided all facilities with a state-of-the-art application that allows for the scanning and monitoring of all golfers and staff.”
Upon arrival at Mbombela Golf Club, members and visiting players (from other affiliated golf clubs) have to sign a register, a Covid-19 coronavirus disclaimer and submit to a body temperature test.
The club has also closed the clubhouse, except for the reception, the Pro-shop and toilet facilities, to discourage congregation.
Members were in high spirits despite the new regulations, many having last played in the week before lockdown.
Sebastian also said that he was a little nervous before his round because he had not played for so long.
“Before lockdown I was a five handicap, hopefully I don’t do worse than a 10 handicap today,” he laughed.
Another member, Arthur Moolman, said on Saturday, “I think its great to be back, it’s well over extension. I think we should have been back at least a month and a half ago because this is one of the few places you can social distance. There is definitely a greater social distancing than you get at supermarkets. I think the layoff was good, but I’m going to take the other guys’ money today”.
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