Since we re-opened this week, many of us have managed to get one or two sets of 9 holes in and thoroughly enjoyed our wonderful course. What a great relief it is to be even playing a provisional!

We are aware of a number of comments about the current 9 hole limit which we would like to address. The reason for the 9 hole limitation was so that we could assess how well the social distancing rules are being adhered to and to see how the demand from members to play balanced with our course capacity.

The social distancing rules seem to be working well though please keep a car width between your vehicle and others (ie 4m) and use the hand sanitisation gel provided before you commence your round. It is possible that you bring contamination with you so it is right that you remove it before starting your round, even though you don’t intend to touch any shared surfaces. Using the gel before your round is a common courtesy to other members. The gels are placed in each locker room and for those who do not need “a quick visit” there is gel right at the clubhouse entrance.

Whilst course demand has been quite high we undoubtedly have spare capacity and therefore we are adjusting our CV course policy.

From Sunday 17th May members can play 18 holes. Many of you have already booked to play 9 holes on Sunday so the other tee has been reserved for you 1h 40min later if you wish to continue your round. From Monday 18^th May onwards you can book 18 holes off the 1^st tee. Between 8am and 9.30am members can book 9 holes off the 10^th tee but if wishing to continue to the 1^st tee would need to book that tee and arrive on time. Finally, we are increasing the number of rounds members can book to 5x each week and will look at this again in due course.

In addition, from Monday 18^th members can play with a guest; the member is responsible for the green fee payment either by card or by posting cash (or a free pass voucher) in an envelope through the office door. Green fees will be £15 each.

The Board are aware of rumours that one or two clubs are allowing visitor pairs and 4 balls. Clubs allowing visitors are moving too quickly in our opinion likely driven by the need to generate income. Whilst the cash benefit is clear, we judge this not to be in the interests of members’ safety and therefore we will not yet allow visitors to the course without a member but will keep this under constant review and amend when we judge the time is right.

Clubs allowing 4-balls outside the “same household” are breaking the intent of social distancing laws and putting the CV recovery at risk. RGC will not allow 4 balls until advised by Government and England Golf.

Enjoy your golf!

The Board
May 15th