Golf is an annual rite of spring in Western New York, and while many businesses have closed because of the coronavirus, courses across the state are allowed to open, with some new safety measures to help golfers and staff safely prevent the spread of COVID-19.
"It's like a totally new world. It's things that we've never done before," said Fred Zillner, director of golf operations at Diamond Hawk Golf Course in Cheektowaga.
Diamond Hawk had asoft opening on Friday, with a full opening to come on Monday. Zillner said he is surprised courses have been given the green light after non-essential businesses were forced to close by order of Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
"We're kind of a safe sport, but I didn't think that we would be open yet," he said.
Zillner and the staff at Diamond Hawk are following guidelines from the state and the United States Golf Association for play during the coronavirus pandemic. The following guidance came from the New York State Golf Association:
Courses in New York are allowed to remain open but must implement all CDC and state-mandated guidelines, and promote safe, social distancing. There is to be no access to pro shops, locker rooms, indoor facilities and restaurants/bars (unless for take-out purposes only).
Social distancing on the golf course may include:
Stay at least 6 feet away from others
Don't shake hands before or after your game
Leave the flagstick in the hole
Remove rakes and ball washers from course
Do not share clubs or any other equipment
If using a golf cart, limit to one person
Per USGA directives, Diamond Hawk is also using a raised cup on putting greens so players don't have to touch the cup with their hands after holing out.
Zillner says the measures are to protect players and employees alike.
"No personal contact. When you want to play, you have to call in [to pay] via credit card. You're not allowed inside the club house. We've had to take all the coolers and sand boxes off the carts," he said.
In addition to the one golfer per cart rule, staff will wash the carts with bleach after every use. Diamond Hawk also plans to offer food for takeout only.
"You don't have to be too close to anyone. You can just go out there, you focus on your game, you look at the beautiful countryside that you're at."
That's exactly what Hank Milner of Buffalo was doing Friday morning, as one of the first and few golfers on the course.
"It's just fun to be out here. Fun to hit a good shot every once in a while. It keeps you coming back," Milner said.
And while he now has to worry about social distancing along with distance on his drives, he doesn't see a problem making the new normal work on the golf course.
"Unless you're playing with someone, you're not really next to people. You keep plenty of distance, definitely more than six feet," he said.
A round of golf is a welcomed distraction and a chance to exercise outdoors when people are mostly expected to stay home.
"It gets you out of the house because I think everyone's getting a little cabin fever," he said. "It takes your mind off things, even for a few hours."
