The big news for golfers this week is that some counties have re-opened their courses, with hopes high that more will follow soon.
Both Placer and Napa Counties have allowed their courses to re-open with some strict guidelines, while in Southern California, Riverside County – which includes the Coachella Valley – have done the same.
As for Northern California, Napa County, which includes courses such as Silverado, Eagle Vines and Chardonnay, has a pretty tight set of rules, opening the courses to residents of Napa County only and no more than two players per group. This comes according to the Eagle Vines web site and was confirmed by an employee in the pro shop.
Placer County has courses such as The Ridge, Turkey Creek, and Woodcreek to name a few. These courses are open to anyone and each course seems to have its own set of rules, mostly covering the same ground with maybe a few different twists.
The following comes from the Woodcreek web site so you can see the basics to be prepared for should you decide to get out and play some golf.
PRO SHOP/CLUBHOUSE
- While we are open for golf, the pro shop will remain closed. Physical distancing of a minimum of 6 feet is required at all times while on the property. Players can check-in in the breezeway using physical distancing standards.
- Golfers are required to schedule and pay for tee times in advance with a credit card either over the phone or online through our website at www.golfroseville.com to streamline interactions. Tee time intervals will be spaced to maximize social distancing.
- Range balls will only be available through the automated dispenser at Woodcreek. Range tokens available at Diamond Oaks using Credit/Debit card only.
- Golf carts will be available for single rider only unless players live in the same household. Push carts will NOT be available. Players may bring and use their own push cart.
- Rental clubs will NOT be available.
- Restrooms will only be available in the breezeway near the pro shop and will be disinfected hourly. On-course restrooms and drinking fountains will be closed.
- Legends Restaurant will provide limited food and beverage options for to-go orders only. Restaurant and patio seating will be closed.
- Employees of each golf facility are required to wear protective gloves and face coverings.
- Enhanced routine environmental cleaning procedures have been implemented throughout the golf course facilities. This includes disinfecting door handles and surfaces that guests regularly come in contact with.
ON COURSE
- Players shall not touch the flag stick and should leave the pin in the cup at all times.
- Cups have been modified to eliminate touch points.
- Ball washers have been covered and are not permitted to be used.
- Bunker rakes have been removed from the course. Temporarily play these areas as non-hazards. A local rule has been established where players can place their golf ball in any bunker on the course.
- All water stations have been removed or covered.
- Physical distancing with a minimum of 6 feet is required between players and staff.
To reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, we ask that all guests and staff observe these procedures while at each golf course:
- Please do not come to the facility if experiencing any signs of illness or if you had symptoms in the last 7 days. Avoid entering the facility if you feel sick or have a cough or fever. Symptom checks are required for all employees at the start of a work shift.
- Maintain a minimum six-foot distance from anyone who is not a household member.
- Golfers are asked to exit the property promptly after playing to avoid congestion and crowding.
- Wash hands often with soap and water, or with alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Do not shake hands or engage in any unnecessary physical contact.
- Sneeze and cough into a cloth or tissue or, if not available, into one’s elbow.
- Avoid touching of your eyes, nose, and mouth. Consider wearing a face covering.
As more courses re-open, we will make sure to bring you the latest news!
By Dennis Miller