SCOTTISH GOLF - Covid 19 update allows travel for exercise but restrictions on competitive play remain

Scottish Golf Chief Operating officer Karin Sharp has released details of further COVID - 19 lockdown restriction relaxation from Friday 16th April following the First Minister's announcement this week, which relaxes the travel restrictions and group numbers for casual golf but at present the restrictions on organised sport and competition remains for those residing outwith the relevant Local Authority area.

The full statement released by Scottish Golf is:-

Following the First Minister’s latest update, Scottish Golf welcomes the news that the early easing of some lockdown restrictions will now take place from Friday 16th April. 

We have received final approval from our partners at Sportscotland and the Scottish Government on our updated guidance which is available here.

Our updated guidance means that from Friday 16th April, the following changes will take place:

Adults living in Level 3 or Level 4 areas may leave their local authority area to participate in informal exercise that starts and finishes in the same place. 

Groups can consist of up to 4 golfers from within Scotland, with no restrictions on number of households. 

Golf continues to benefit from being classified as informal exercise by the Scottish Government and we recognise that this is a privileged position in comparison to some other sports at this time. This means that players from outwith the club’s local authority area can now travel to participate in a casual game of golf. However, where cross-border travel is required, competitive play will not be permitted at this time. We anticipate that from the 26th April, subject to further announcements, this restriction will also be lifted. 

This announcement is welcome news for the golfing community. We know many golf clubs and golfers have endured significant sacrifices during the recent lockdown, but we hope that today’s update will provide an opportunity for more people to get back out on the golf course and enjoy the physical and mental health benefits that a round can provide. We thank you again for your understanding and, as the lighter nights and better weather return, we hope you enjoy being able to meet up with friends and family for a game. 

Keep up to date on all the latest COVID-19 updates on Scottish Golf's dedicated webpage.