As a majority of the world find themselves in some form of lockdown measure, there are many wondering how long it will take for us to see some form of normalcy in our lives once again. But in the United States, it appears that businesses such as golf courses are allowing many to home and enjoy golf despite the ongoing pandemic. In this article, we will be providing you with insight into how Covid-19 has affected the sport.
Covid-19 In the United States
As many of us have heard by now, America has taken over China to become the epicentre of the Coronavirus outbreak. With 890,000 cases confirmed in the US alone, they are by far one of the worst affected in the world. As this virus has continued to force lockdown measures in a majority of the US, many are wondering whether the Trump administration and other sections of government were quick enough in their response to the Coronavirus outbreak.
With over 50 thousand confirmed deaths in the country alone, there are calls on many more states to begin lockdown measures to ensure the prevention of this virus spreading. With some of the worst affected states such as New York and California already in some form of lockdown, it is down to state government to influence these measures further. However, with the economic impact of the virus also tasking its tole, several businesses, as well as organisations, are calling for restrictions to be lifted as soon as possible.
The Effects Of The Pandemic On Sport
As the virus has continued to spread, there have been several sporting organisations cancelling live events and postponing their seasons until further notice. One of the first to do this where the NBA in March. However, with several international golfing tournaments and football games all cancelled, speculations are surrounding whether or not sporting events such as this will be able to return in 2020. Despite this however several bookies are still taking bets on the 2020 season in hopes that it will continue as we head towards the warmer summer months.
At this time, however, the message from officials in Golf remains unclear. Though we have seen the open being rearranged, the Ryder cup and masters are still set to go ahead unchanged. Though this may change depending on the advice from the leading health officials, the information remains unclear. When asked about the chances of this going ahead later on in the year Augusta Nationals Chairman had this to say:
“We want to emphasise that our future plans are incumbent upon favourable counsel and direction from health officials.”
This is a point of view that has been echoed by officials in the NFL, NBA and other major American sporting associations. However, some such as the MLB have begun to aid the process by helping scientists conduct several Antibodies tests to help track who has been exposed to the virus.
The Impact On Golf
Despite there being a vast amount of uncertainty surrounding the virus, there have been several new and existing golf courses opening up to welcome players to the green. According to statistics, there have been a total number of golf courses in the US has risen from 41% to 48% despite there being an ongoing pandemic. Though this is promising for the sport and those that are playing regularly, the option on reopening golf courses in the United States is completely down to the states.
When asked about golf courses re-opening some course managers have said that social distancing can still be maintained when out on the course. With some of the largest greens and fairways out there, it is possible to still play the game effectively without coming into contact with other people. However, for some, this is still an issue as it can be seen as encouraging those that wish to, to leave their homes.
Though there has been no official statement from the president on the matter at this time, this is seen by some as going directly against the WHO and other medical professionals urging people to stay home to prevent the spread of the virus.
With this in mind, as the virus continues to bring the United States to its knees, we are sure that there will be further developments when it comes to the containment of this is, particularly in the worse affected states.
