This is how Scotland’s Boxing Day move into Level 4 affects golf

When lockdown was announced in spring, our golf clubs were closed, with play in the outdoors not permitted.

But the sport’s governing body, the St Andrews based Scottish Golf, has confirmed that the move into Level 4 restrictions from Boxing Day will still allow courses to remain open for play.

A statement from Scottish Golf confirmed: “Following the First Minister’s weekend announcement that a move to Level 4 will be implemented from 26 December, we can advise that there has been no changes advised to the previously shared sporting guidance based on each local protection level.

“Should there be any changes advised in the days ahead, we shall of course keep you updated but in the meantime all detail on our website shows the current position for golf.”

The Scottish Golf website advice remains current and the full detail of what is permitted can be found at scottishgolf.org. Further details from sportscotland on the wider sporting framework and responsibilities of Covid-19 officers is available at sportscotland.org.uk.

Under Level 4 restrictions, guidance states that, at golf clubs who have a Covid-19 officer, and applicable risk assessments completed, groups of up to four golfers with no restrictions on the number of households can meet to play.

For those golf clubs who do not have a Covid-19 officer, but applicable risk assessments, groups of up to four golfers with up to two households represented can play.

Scottish Golf adds that all tee times must be booked in advance.

But those using their local club while we are in the new level should still expect to see some changes.

All indoor clubhouse facilities should be closed, although toilets can remain open subject to enhanced cleaning measures.

Pro shops should also be closed but Scottish Golf does say that a click and collect operation can be put into place.

Driving ranges, which are fully outdoor, regardless of if the bays are covered or not, can remain open and coaching, as long as it is outdoor and does not exceed a group size of 30, is permitted.

Despite this, the message remains to keep journeys to an absolute minimum.

For full details, please visit scottishgolf.org where the governing body has information on guidance across all levels.