Some courses staying open while limiting group size, equipment-handling, cleaning procedures

Golfing in Baldwin County and COVID-19 concerns

Rock Creek, Craft Farms and Peninsula staying open in Baldwin County

Submitted by Honours Golf (HonoursGolf.com)
Posted 3/20/20

FAIRHOPE, Ala. – Some golf courses in Baldwin County are open for individuals, pairs or small groups, but suspending tournament play indefinitely. Craft Farms, Peninsula and Rock Creek are remaining open said Director of Club Operations and General Manager Chad Leonard. The clubs are also linking up with experts

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Some courses staying open while limiting group size, equipment-handling, cleaning procedures

Golfing in Baldwin County and COVID-19 concerns

Rock Creek, Craft Farms and Peninsula staying open in Baldwin County

Posted

FAIRHOPE, Ala. – Some golf courses in Baldwin County are open for individuals, pairs or small groups, but most are suspending tournament play indefinitely. Craft Farms, Peninsula and Rock Creek are remaining open said Director of Club Operations and General Manager Chad Leonard.

The clubs are also linking up with experts with advice on how to properly clean “high-touch” areas and equipment to limit risks. The links are posted below. For more local information visit: CraftFarms.com, RockCreekGolf.com and PeninsulaGolfClub.com.

Can You Play Golf Amid Coronavirus Concerns? With Proper Precautions, Yes” by Mike Stachura of Golf Digest

Come for Some Exercise and Fresh Air Too. Golf is a Great Escape.

As far as actual golf goes, being out on the golf course and being separated from people for a while, it’s a great escape from what’s going on and a great time to get some fresh air and to get some exercise as well.

 “It’s a great way to get outside and get some fresh air and not have to worry about what’s going on for a few hours,” said PGA General Manager Michael Ferranti. “It’s definitely something to do now that there’s no games on TV and really something to get out and get going.”

“Great Escape from What’s Going On-Local Golf Courses Remain Open Amid Coronavirus Concerns” by Chase Evans 

Support your Community, Play Golf Locally

New safety recommendations for golf clubs suggest hourly cleanings of high-touch areas like doorknobs, a regular changing of towels, and elbow bumps to replace handshakes. A Golf Advisor writer commented, “...it’s noteworthy that closing wasn’t one of the suggestions. I don’t know about you; I don’t plan on hanging up the clubs as long as I’m healthy. With all the stress and newfound free time (with schools and youth sports canceling), I could theoretically play more. It would be wise to play locally, avoiding travel and supporting your own community.”

“Coronavirus and the Sun: a Lesson from the 1918 Influenza Pandemic” by Richard Hobday

Physical Activity Lowers Your Overall Risk. Book Your Tee Time Today. 

“At this point, people should certainly keep exercising,” Aubree Gordon, an associate professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health, tells CNBC. In fact, physical activity can boost your immune system, Michael Knight, assistant professor of medicine at the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Services, tells CNBC. “I would encourage my patients to continue getting moderate amounts of physical activity to lower their overall risk,” he says.

“Should You Skip the Gym or a Workout Class Because of the Coronavirus Outbreak?” by Cory Stieg of CNBC 

Golf Might Be Just the Right Antidote for the Coronavirus.

The fact is, with the right precautions and perhaps a little pre- and post-round modifications, golf might be just the right antidote to the mounting fears of coronavirus. Fighting the coronavirus is a communal effort, but from an individual basis, it also has much to do with our immune systems, and the fact is our immune systems do not work well when they are stressed. Golf, even for those of us who know the internal outrage of the 40-yard slice or the third three-putt in four holes, can and should be a de-stresser. That’s a good thing. Less stress, physical activity, being outdoors, taking in nature. Maybe hitting more practice balls on the range or even walking the course at night with a club and a few balls. Sounds a lot like the game we love.

Exercising Outside Reduces Risk. Head Outdoors and Play Golf. 

If you’re nervous about the gym, exercising outdoors would “dramatically reduce any chance” of getting the virus, simply because you’re around fewer people, Aubree Gordon, an associate professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health, tells CNBC. Currently, there are no restrictions in place that would prevent people from going outside in the United States. Go for a run, hike or bike ride, she suggests. Plus, research has shown that a 90-minute walk in nature boosts your cognitive functioning and decreases anxiety.

“What the Coronavirus Means for Everyday Golfers” by Jason Scott Deegan of Golf Advisor

Home From School and Need Activities? Kids Play Golf Free.

If you’re looking for a way to keep your children occupied while they’re stuck at home, here are some ideas: Read some books, have a movie marathon, and play outside with parent supervision. Wait, play outside with parent supervision? Sounds like a great opportunity to play golf. It’s affordable too, because kids always play free with a paying adult. So, book your tee time, grab your clubs, and take this opportunity to teach your kids a sport you can enjoy together for years to come. 

“LIST: At-home Activities for Kids During Coronavirus Outbreak” by Colette DuChanois of News4JAX