GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - Golf clubs and amateur golfers around the country are undoubtedly breathing huge sighs of relief as they aim to return to the course after GolfRSA announced today that amateur golf is once again permitted.

In a statement released earlier today, GolfRSA, the unified body of the South African Golf Association (SAGA) and Womens Golf South Africa (WGSA), thanked the government for the reopening.

"The Golf bodies wish to thank the Minister, Director General and their team of staff for their commitment to helping Golf to begin exercise and training for members of a federation, agency, club or body," the statement read.

The opening of the courses comes after weeks of preparing clubs around the country for reopening. "Over the past few weeks, GolfRSA has equipped all clubs with Risk Mitigation Strategies and training of Compliance Officers. In addition to this, GolfRSA has provided all facilities with a state-of-the-art application that allows for the scanning and monitoring of all golfers and staff."

Before golf courses can reopen, however, they will have to complete the Confirmation of Compliance Document and submit it to GolfRSA.

Knysna Golf Club (KGC) will be the first Knysna course to reopen, with the course set to open its doors again tomorrow. 

According to resident professional Chris Dixon, they had already begun the process of reopening prior to the announcement, and are geared and ready to go. "The restaurant and bar won't be open, only the course will, and we will abide strictly to all measures," he said. 

Golfers will be allowed to tee off from KGC in 10 minute intervals beginning at 08:00 tomorrow.

Simola Golf Estate CEO Avril  Kaschula, felt that it is "about time to open again now", stating that they've already received numerous calls from golfers. He confirmed that his teams are currently filling out all necessary documentation and are hoping to open again some time next week.

Pezula Championship Course is currently in meetings with its committee, according to club captain Gary Fagan, who is relieved to hear the news. "It's great, we're all chuffed," he said. Their way forward will be decided in the meetings.

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