REPUBLIC OF IRELAND'S CLUBS SET TO OPEN TOMORROW

Golf Ireland has announced that all golf clubs in the Republic of Ireland will be able to re-open from this Tuesday.

Golf Ireland welcomed the Irish Government’s decision on Friday that golf courses in the Republic of Ireland can re-open from 1st December 2020, as a six-week national lockdown ends and restrictions ease.

The decision by the Government means that golf can resume, although it will be subject to strict health protection protocols and travel restrictions. There are plans for some further relaxations on travel when COVID-19 restrictions are eased for "close to two weeks" over Christmas.

Golf Ireland CEO, Mark Kennelly, said:

"The golf community is pleased that courses can reopen from Tuesday next. Golfers welcome the opportunity to resume play on a responsible and safe basis, as they did during the May to October period."

"The governing bodies are issuing renewed guidance to our member clubs today and we strongly urge all golfers to continue to fully adhere to these protocols which are aimed at keeping golf and the wider community safe while the Covid-19 pandemic remains such a serious threat. We also ask golfers to fully comply with the wider public health restrictions, particularly the travel restrictions that will remain in place until 18th December."

"Earlier this year, Irish golf demonstrated how our sport could be enjoyed by women and men of all ages in a safe and secure environment. As golf resumes, we hope that golfers enjoy their play but continue to be vigilant in adhering to the safety protocols."

Golf clubs in Northern Ireland are currently all closed, after the country entered in to a national two-week 'circuit-breaker' lockdown on Friday.

MARTIN GILBERT TO BE NEW CHAIR OF SCOTTISH GOLF

Martin Gilbert, one of Scotland’s best-known business figures, is set to become the chair of Scottish Golf at its AGM in March next year.

Today, Scottish Golf announced that Martin Gilbert, who recently retired as the chair of Aberdeen Standard Investments after establishing the company as Aberdeen Asset Management in 1983, will be presented as chair-elect at the Scottish Golf AGM in March 2021, when Eleanor Cannon will step down after her six-year term as chair.

Gilbert has been a prominent supporter of golf in Scotland for many years, firstly through Aberdeen Asset Management and latterly Aberdeen Standard Investments. AIS has been the headline sponsor of the men’s Scottish Open since 2012, and the Ladies' Scottish Open since 2011.

Via his businesses, Gilbert has also sponsored some of Scotland's leading golfers including the 1999 Open Champion, Paul Lawrie, the 2009 British Women’s Open Champion, Catriona Matthew, and more recently European Tour winner Robert MacIntyre.

Eleanor Cannon said:

"This is a tremendous coup for golf in Scotland and the entire board is delighted that Martin, whose passion and support for the sport are very widely known, has agreed to take on this role next year."

"His achievements, both in business globally and in his role as the biggest supporter of Scottish Golf over the past two decades, speak for themselves and I am sure his dynamic approach will allow Scottish Golf to flourish. I am extremely pleased that our members and our sport will benefit from Martin’s guidance and undoubted love for golf in the years ahead."

Martin Gilbert said:

“As many people know, golf has been a lifelong passion of mine and I’m hugely excited to be taking up this role in the Home of Golf. I commend Eleanor and her team for their sterling leadership of the new, amalgamated body since its inception in 2015."

"The strategic direction that has been adopted by Scottish Golf is bold and exciting. I am very much looking forward to progressing this strategy and working closely with the board, the team and the membership in continuing to develop the game at all levels in Scotland."

Today's news from Scottish Golf comes less than a month after it announced that major winners Paul Lawrie and Catriona Matthew have signed up to help deliver the next generation of Scottish champions through a new mentoring programme for the country’s top young talent.

The Scottish duo will also contribute to a broad review into the structure of Scottish Golf’s performance programmes and player pathways.

EMILY PEDERSEN FINISHES LET SEASON ON A HAT-TRICK

Emily Pedersen extended her winning streak on the Ladies European Tour with a four-stroke victory at the Andalucia Costa del Sol Open de Espana.

Denmark’s Emily Pedersen powered to Andalucía Costa Del Sol Open De Espana victory, closing with a six-under par bogey-free final round of 66 for a four shot win on -15 from home favourite Nuria Iturrioz.

A model of consistency all year, the 24-year-old Dane has won an impressive five LET titles from 12 starts and becomes only the second player to win three LET tournaments in a row, after Marie-Laure de Lorenzi in 1988.

Walking away with the first-place winner’s cheque of €90,000, Pedersen also collected €20,000 for winning this year's inaugural Race to Costa del Sol and finishes the 2020 LET season with a mammoth €415,000 in prize money.

After her win in Spain, Pedersen said:

"I can’t believe I’ve won the Race to Costa del Sol, it’s always been a dream of mine and I am so happy to not only be playing well this year but to win it here this week in Spain. The last few months have been amazing."

"It was very special with my dad, Jesper, here. He got me into golf and he has been a big support the whole way, he kept me going when I was down and it is really big for me to have him here and win this amazing trophy."

Three-time LET winner Nuria Iturrioz put up a valiant fight in front of her home fans, recovering from a shaky start to record a final three-under-par round of 69 to finish in solo second place on -11. The gutsy display was enough to claim the award for the highest finish for a Spanish player at the Open and saw her walk away with a consolation prize of €51,629.

Rising Spanish star Ana Pelaez also made history, recording the best finish by an amateur in the Spanish Open. Playing with her idol Azahara Munoz, the 22-year-old amateur is one to watch for the future as she fired a sensational five-under-par 67 to finish in solo third on -7.

Scotland's Kelsey MacDonald followed-up her top ten finish in Dubai with a share of 11th place on -3, four shots ahead of compatriot Kylie Henry, who finished tied for 19th place on +1.

The other two Scots, Laura Murray and Alison Muirhead finished within a shot of each other, with Murray T-46th on +8 and Muirhead T-51st on +9.

EMILY PEDERSEN ON COURSE TO WIN THE SPANISH OPEN

Race to Costa de Sol winner, Emily Pedersen is on course to win her third consecutive Ladies European Tour (LET) title.

Denmark’s Emily Pedersen closed with a sensational eagle at the 54th hole to post a bogey-free four-under-par 68 to leapfrog Spain’s Nuria Iturrioz and assume a one-shot lead at the Andalucía Costa Del Sol Open De Espana.

Joining the pair in the final group and occupying solo third spot on -6 after a five-under-par third round of 67 is Morocco’s Maha Haddioui. Looking to make history of her own as the first Arabic winner on Tour, the 31-year-old, who is competing in her eighth season on Tour.

Scotland's Kelsey MacDonald is still on course for a second top-10 finish in her last four events on the Ladies European Tour. The Scot is lying fifth after a one-over-par third round of 73. MacDonald will tee off on Sunday alongside Luna Sobron Galmes (ESP) on -5 and Manon Gidali (FRA) on -3.

The only amateur to make the cut is local star Ana Pelaez, who impressed with a four-under-par 68 to move into a share of seventh on -2 alongside her Spanish idol Azahara Munoz and Finland’s Sanna Nuutinen.

After three rounds, only 14 players are under-par for the tournament heading into the final day, with England's Annabel Dimmock carding a joint-low round-of-the-day 67 to join compatriot Meghan MacLaren and Scotland's Kylie Henry in the group tied for 10th on -1.

Laura Murray (SCO) is tied for 24th on +3 after a two-under-par round of 70, while Alison Muirhead (SCO) is tied for 51st on +7.

SPAIN'S NURIA ITURRIOZ LEADS THE SPANISH OPEN

Spanish golfer Nuria Iturrioz leads the field by three shots on eight-under after round two of The Andalucía Costa del Sol Open de España.

Overnight leader Nuria Iturrioz (ESP) will take a three-shot advantage into the third round of the Spanish Open, from the Race to Costa del Sol champion Emily Pedersen (DEN) and Kelsey Macdonald (SCO), as the Spanish star looks to claim a fourth LET title of her career.

Playing the remaining 11 holes of her second round this morning, Scotland’s Kelsey MacDonald will be full of confidence, having birdied the 18th hole to make it into the final group tied with Pedersen on -5.

Spain’s Luna Sobron Galmes and Finland’s Sanna Nuutinen are leading the chasing pack tied for fourth on -4.

England’s Meghan MacLaren recovered from being five over after 10 holes on the opening day to post rounds of 75 and 68 to jump into a share of fifth, with just seven players under par for the tournament after the first two days.

Three other Scots followed MacDonald's lead and made it safely through to the weekend. Kylie Henry finished her second round tied for ninth on level par, while Alison Murhead will start her third round tied for 37th on +5, one shot ahead of Laura Murray, who is tied for 44th on +6. Unfortunately, Gemma Dryburgh and Michele Thomson both missed the cut, which fell at +9.

The third round of the season finale is now underway at the challenging Real Club De Golf Guadalmina, after a shot gun start, as the international field bids to make up for lost time due to a weather delay on Thursday.

JUNIOR TOUR SCOTLAND - NEW EVENT ANNOUNCED

The Junior Tour Scotland has announced a new event for 2021. It will be held at Kilspindie Golf Club from 22-23 May and is open to both girls & boys.

The Junior Tour Scotland has issued the following statement:

"Delighted to announce that Kilspindie Golf Club have given us permission to hold a "mini JT event" for Girls Under 18 and Boys Under 15. It will be a 36 hole event on the 22nd and 23rd May 2021. We are waiting on another course, as it's our intention to run a similar event through the West. Full details will follow in due course."

"Sincerely,"
"Paul"
"on behalf of the Junior Tour Admin Team"

The 2021 Junior Tour Scotland Fixture List is now as follows:

3 & 4 April - Royal Dornoch
8 May - Southerness
22 & 23 May - Kilspindie Golf Club
26 & 27 June - Royal Musselburgh
10 & 11 July - Arbroath
14 & 15 August - Duff House Royal
28 & 29 August - Brora

5th September - Final at Luffness New

All events except Southerness, Kilspindie and the final at Luffness New are 54 holes. You can find out more at: @juniortourscotland


There are also two Junior Winter Series events still to be played and entries are open. The 2021 Junior Winter Series Fixtures are as follows:

11th February - West Kilbride Golf Club - Info/entries at: @sgfoundationgolf
14th March - Fortrose & Rosemarkie - Info/entries at: @juniortourscotland

THIS WEEK'S LET SEASON FINALE IS THE SPANISH OPEN

This year's shortened Ladies European Tour (LET) season will draw to a close this week at The Andalucía Costa del Sol Open de España.

The 18th edition of the Andalucia Costa Del Sol Open De Espana, which is the final event of the 2020 Ladies European Tour season, will take place from 26-29 November at the Real Club de Golf Guadalmina.

Amongst the pre-tournament favourites for the event are four-time Solheim Cup star Azahara Munoz (ESP), local star Nuria Iturrioz (ESP), 2020 Race to Costa del Sol leader Emily Pedersen (DEN), two-time LET winner Meghan MacLaren (ENG) and 2020 VP Bank Swiss Open winner Amy Bolden (WAL).

Azahara Munoz, who is a two-time Open De Espana champion and a former winner at Real Club De Golf Guadalmina, has happy memories of the par-72 layout having not only grown up down the road in Marbella but having honed her game on the narrow treelined fairways and testing greens since the age of nine.

There are six Scottish players in the draw. Kylie Henry, who is the leading Scot in the 2020 Race to Costa del Sol, will be joined by Gemma Dryburgh, Kelsey MacDonald, Alison Muirhead, Laura Murray and Michele Thomson. Thomson was a member of the winning team at last week’s Saudi Ladies Team International.

The 2020 LET season might be drawing to a close, but it is not over yet. With 300 Race to Costa del Sol points on offer and a slice of the €600,000 prize fund, there's still plenty to play for at the season finale in Spain.

NORTHERN IRELAND'S GOLF CLUBS TO CLOSE ON FRIDAY

All golf clubs in Northern Ireland have been told to close at midnight on Thursday as the country enters a two week 'circuit-breaker' lockdown.

Last week, the Northern Ireland Executive announced that the country was set to face a two-week period of tougher COVID-19 lockdown measures from midnight on Thursday, 27 November 2020.

There had been some hope for golf clubs when Justice Minister Naomi Long claimed that the NI Executive was still to provide 'clarification' on whether golf courses could remain open. However, after a meeting of the Executive on Monday it was confirmed that they would have to close.

Earlier today, the Golfing Union of Ireland issued out a statement to all affiliated golf clubs and facilities in Northern Ireland, which states as follows:

"We regret to confirm that as per the NI Executive’s new COVID-19 restrictions which will take effect at 23:59 on Thursday 26 November, all sports facilities, including golf courses, must close at this time."

"While it is acknowledged that golf has demonstrated itself to be a safe sport during the pandemic, the wider public health guidance must be adhered to and we encourage all golf clubs and golfers to comply fully with the advice of the NI Public Health Agency."

"In the meantime, as is the case in the Republic of Ireland, we will continue to engage with the relevant authorities to ensure that golf courses can reopen as soon as possible."

Golf clubs in the Republic of Ireland are also closed at the moment. 

ENGLISH GOLF COURSES SET TO REOPEN NEXT WEEK

English Golf Courses will be able to reopen when the four-week national lockdown in England ends next Wednesday, 2 December 2020.

Yesterday, Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, announced in a statement to Parliament that outdoor sports can resume when the 2nd national lockdown in England comes to an end on 2 December and the country returns to a new three-tiered system of restrictions.

England Golf later confirmed:

"The announcement paves the way for golf to return in England at all COVID-19 alert levels within the Rule of Six, permitting fourball play without restriction on number of households."

"Coaching, fitting and ranges will also be allowed to open, as will indoor hospitality facilities in tiers one and two (those in tier three can continue a takeaway service only)."

The announcement came as Parliament debated a petition, signed by more than 257,000 people earlier this month, which called for golf courses to be made exempt from the list of venues required to close during lockdown.

Speaking after the Prime Minister's statement, the Chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf, North Warwickshire MP, Craig Tracey, said:

"I am sure all involved in golf in England welcome the sport's return and the industry has yet again pulled together to form a coherent message to Government articulating why it was safe to do so."

"As was seen both before and during this lockdown, golf is a sport that can be played safely and the industry adapted quickly to manage the restrictions imposed previously."

“Golf now has operational experience and established COVID secure practices, including rule changes and other mitigation measures that meet the ‘Hands, Face, Space’ directive."

"It is therefore ideally placed to welcome people back when lockdown ends in all the home nations."

“The health and wellbeing benefits of playing golf are well documented in scientific literature and leaders in public health, public policy and sport from across the globe recognise that golf tackles physical inactivity and contributes to the prevention of a range of non-communicable diseases."

“Combining the undeniable benefits that golf offers to a significant proportion of the country, and the steps taken that ensure golf is a sport that can be played safely, the golf industry looks forward to welcoming players back and is confident it can meet future restrictions."

SEI YOUNG KIM WINS PELICAN WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP

Sei Young Kim followed up her first major title last month by winning her 12th LPGA Tour title at the Pelican Women's Championship on Sunday.

South Korea's Sei Young Kim cruised to her second tour title in six weeks with a comfortable three-shot triumph over America's Ally MacDonald at the inaugural Pelican Women's Championship in Florida.

Starting the day five ahead, Kim's lead over MacDonald was cut to three shots when she bogeyed the par-three 9th, but that was the closest the American would get to the leader. A birdie from Kim at the 14th moved the World No 2 further ahead and despite bogeying the last she won comfortably at -14, on a week when only 19 players broke par.

USA Solheim Cup star Ally McDonald, who was coming off her first LPGA Tour win at the LPGA Drive On Championship, closed with a two-under-par 68 to finish alone in second on -11.

Northern Ireland's Stephanie Meadow fired a one-under-par 69 to finish third on -9. The performance, which matched her previous best LPGA Tour finish of third place at the 2014 US Open, moves her up 24 spots to 35th in the LPGA's season rankings.

Lydia Ko (NZL) and Austin Ernst (USA) shot rounds of 69 and 68 to finish tied for 4th on -8, while Jessica Korda (USA) returned the round of the day, a six-under 64, to finish tied for 6th on -7 with Brooke Henderson (CAN), Angela Stanford (USA) and Jennifer Song (USA).

England's Mel Reid, who won her first LPGA event in October, finished in a share of 12th on -3 after a one-under-par round of 69, while her compatriot Jodi Ewart Shadoff surged up the leaderboard into a share of 14th place after she fired a five-under 65 to get her to -2.

SEI YOUNG KIM LEADS BY 5 AT PELICAN CHAMPIONSHIP

Sei Young Kim opened up a five-shot lead as Ally McDonald chased with an ace at the 12th on the third day of the Pelican Women's Championship.

South Korea's Sei Young Kim put herself in prime position to claim her 2nd victory in six weeks, having won her first major title at the KPMG Women's PGA Championship last month, by producing an outstanding finish to extend her lead from one shot to five in the space of three holes.

USA Solheim Cup star Ally McDonald had put pressure on the world No 2 when she bounced back from a double-bogey at the eighth with a perfect tee shot at the short 12th. That got McDonald to within one of the leader, and the two traded birdies at the long 14th before Kim took control of the tournament as the American faltered. A par at the eighteenth completed a six-under 64 for Kim and a 54-hole score of -14 under, with McDonald carding a 68 to finish five shots back in 2nd place on -9.

Northern Ireland's Stephanie Meadow is in 3rd place after firing six birdies and four bogeys for a two-under-par third round of 68. Meadow is currently at -8 for the tournament, six shots behind the leader, Kim, and one shot ahead of New Zealand's Lydia Ko who carded a four-under-par third round of 66 to move into 4th place on -7.

Tied for 5th on -6, one shot behind the Kiwi, is a trio of Austin Ernst (USA), Brooke Henderson (CAN) and Minjee Lee (AUS).

England's Mel Reid surged into a share of 10th place after she fired a bogey free five-under-par 65 to get her to -2.

EMILY PEDERSEN WINS A HAT-TRICK OF TITLES IN SAUDI

Emily Pedersen, who has been in red-hot form all year, dominated in Saudi to seal a hat-trick of wins and with it The Race to Costa del Sol crown.

Denmark’s Emily Pedersen followed-up her triump in the Aramco Saudi Ladies International on Sunday, which she won after a thrilling play-off against Georgia Hall, by winning both the team and individual events in the inaugural Saudi Ladies Team International on Thursday.

Playing alongside her partners Scotland’s Michele Thomson, South Africa’s Casandra Hall and English amateur Matt Selby, Pedersen fired a bogey free final five-under-par round of 67 to win the individual title by two shots on -14 and lead her side to a slender one-shot win in the team event on -40.

In the individual event, Stephanie Kyriacou (AUS) fired five birdies and two eagles on the final day on her way to a course-record 63 and a share of 2nd alongside Anne van Dam (NED) and Luna Sobron Galmes (ESP) on -12, with Charley Hull (ENG) a further three strokes back in 5th place.

English duo Georgia Hall and Elanor Givens ended the week six shots back in a tie for 6th place, while Dame Laura Davies eagled the par-five last to close with a second successive two-under-par 70 and a share of 15th on -4.

The top Scot was Kelsey MacDonald, who finished tied for 12th on -5.

After completing her clean sweep in Suadi, Emily Pedersen said:

“We did really well today, we complemented each other. Today was the first day where we didn’t have a hole over par, so I’m really happy that we got that done and it was a really clutch putt by Casandra on the last."

"I can’t believe what’s happened this season, I was confident I could get back to where I was, but I couldn’t imagine that it would be like this. It’s been a strange year for all of us with COVID but while everyone’s saying it is the worst year, I’m having the best year ever, so that’s a little weird but I am really happy."

"I have loved the course; I think it sets up well for me and worked well with Mikey. We worked out our tactics and stuck to it through everything. The weather is good here, the people are nice, and it’s been a good ten days."

Her fellow team mate, Scotland's Michele Thomson added:

"It’s been unbelievable, I was absolutely delighted when I heard she'd [Pedersen] picked me. She is one of the best players I think I’ve ever played with and we just wanted to make some birdies out there today. Although I am about ten years older than her, I have learnt a lot from her this week, and I’ve gained a great friend this week."

This year's shortened Ladies European Tour (LET) will conclude next week at the Andalucia Costa Del Sol Open De Espana, with Pedersen already assured of winning the 2020 LET Order of Merit.

SCOTTISH GOLF UPDATE ON COVID-19 GUIDANCE

Scottish Golf has issued a COVID-19 update on the details of the new travel restrictions, which become law from 6pm today, Friday 20 November.

The full statement issued by Scottish Golf today reads as follows:

"As detailed in our COVID-19 Update yesterday, we were awaiting final detail from the Scottish Government about travel restrictions which will become law from 6pm this evening (Friday 20 November)."

"Following the parliamentary process, Scottish Golf has today received updated information on these restrictions and can confirm that the rules regarding travel are as follows:"

• "Participants can travel to take part in organised sport and physical activity or informal exercise within their own Local Authority area."

• "If you live in a Level 3 or Level 4 local authority area you should:" 
• "Avoid any unnecessary travel out of the area." 
• "Keep journeys within the area to an absolute minimum."

• "Participants aged 18 years or over (adults) living in a Level 3 or Level 4 area should only travel locally (within around 5 miles of their local authority area) to take part in physically distanced non-contact sport or exercise outdoors. You can also take part in local informal exercise such as golf that starts and finishes at the same place but straddles the boundary of two local authority areas."

• "Participants aged 18 years or over (adults) who live in a Level 0, 1 or 2 area should minimise unnecessary journeys and avoid travel to Level 3 or Level 4 areas to take part in sport or physical activity."

• Participants aged 17 years or under can travel to and from Level 0, 1, 2 and 3 areas (but not Level 4) to take part in organised sport, physical activity, training and competition. Where living in a Level 4 area then you should only travel locally (within around 5 miles of their local authority area) to take part in physically distanced non-contact sport or exercise outdoors. You can also take part in local informal exercise such as golf that starts and finishes at the same place but straddles the boundary of two local authority areas. 

"We appreciate that the guidance for travel is slightly different to detail we provided earlier in the week. At all times our information is developed in partnership with sportscotlandbased on information available specific to sport and at the time of publication was based on the understanding at that time. Throughout our response to the pandemic, we have tried to ensure golf clubs have had as much time to prepare as possible ahead of any changes coming into force and been clear that the guidance can be subject to change."

"Our COVID-19 Local Restrictions Summary Sheet has been updated to reflect today’s changes and can be accessed here."

"We would like to remind all clubs that this legislation comes into force at 6pm this evening and Scottish Golf encourages all clubs and their members to adhere to the law at all times when travelling for exercise."

"Once again, we thank you for your continued support during these difficult times and appreciate your understanding that guidance will remain subject to change at short notice as we continue our response to the pandemic."

THE FIGHT TO KEEP ENGLISH CLUBS OPEN GOES ON

A petition to 'Exempt golf courses from the list of venues required to close due to COVID-19' restrictions will be debated in Parliament on Monday.

England Golf has received notice from the UK Government that a debate on the petition to 'Exempt golf courses from the list of venues required to close due to COVID-19' will be heard in Parliament on Monday 23 November 2020.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf was unable to persuade the UK Government to keep English golf courses open during the current four-week lockdown period in England, which is due to end on 2 December 2020.

More than 257,000 people signed the online petition in just three days, with England Golf highlighting the various health and wellbeing benefits of the sport, but they were unable to stop the closure of golf courses on 5 November. However, as the petition received more than 100,000 signatures it reached the threshold at which it could be considered for a debate in Parliament.

Catherine McKinnell MP, the chair of the Petitions Committee, will lead the debate on Monday, nine days before the lockdown in England is set to be lifted. The Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport will send a Minister to respond.

England Golf has confirmed that it wholeheartedly supports the views of the petition. England Golf's Chief Executive, Jeremy Tomlinson added:

"We know the benefits our sport can provide for both mental and physical health at this time of isolation and hope the Government can recognise this during the upcoming debate and support golf's return to playing."

"Earlier this year, the game of golf was able to clearly demonstrate that it could be enjoyed in a Covid-safe way, which is why it was one of the first sports to return once restrictions were lifted.

This was a privilege that the sport took incredibly seriously and accordingly adopted the highest possible standards to keep participants safe."

"Our sport has come together in one voice during this difficult year and it’s thanks to the support of our members, clubs and counties, as well as our collaboration with the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf."

SCOTTISH GOLF UPDATE ON COVID-19 GUIDANCE

Scottish Golf has issued a new COVID-19 update in response to the changes in tier and travel restrictions, which come into force this Friday.

The full statement issued by Scottish Golf today reads as follows:

"Following our last communication on Tuesday 17th November, Scottish Golf is now in a position to provide all affiliated clubs with further guidance relating to the Scottish Government’s COVID protection levels by local area."

"With restrictions tightening across many parts of the country, we welcome the fact that on-course activity can continue across Scotland in compliance with local restrictions. In recognising the contribution of golf to the physical and mental health of our membership, we are most appreciative of the opportunity to keep the golf courses open and our golfing community benefiting from playing the game during these ongoing times of uncertainty."

"We have been working with our partners at sportscotland and the Scottish Government to gain final sign-off on our latest version of our COVID-19 Guidance for Golf Clubs and Golfers which includes a new summary sheet detailing what golf activity can take place under each level of protection. This information should be used in conjunction with Scottish Golf’s main guidance and clubs should be aware that this guidance may be subject to further change. Should this happen, we will continue to keep all clubs informed."

"Through our ongoing work with The Scottish Government, MSPs on the Parliament’s Health and Sport Committee want to know more about the impact of COVID-19 and associated restrictions on sports clubs, sporting organisations and sports and leisure venues. Clubs are encouraged to complete a short survey which should take no more than 6-7 minutes to complete. Please note this survey closes on 7th December."

"It’s really important that the Committee capture as much insight and experience of the sector as possible to ensure MSPs have a full picture of the impact."

"We know that these new restrictions are difficult, but it remains our shared responsibility to prioritise the health of our local communities by working together to follow the Government guidelines. In doing so, this will ensure that we continue to benefit from playing the game we love. We thank all of our clubs and golfers for continuing to play their part during these challenging times."

"We will continue to keep all clubs and tournament organisers updated via our dedicated COVID-19 webpage which can be accessed here."

JUNIOR SOLHEIM CUP QUALIFYING EVENTS ANNOUNCED

The PING Junior Solheim Cup has announced the qualifying schedule for the 2021 European junior team. The team be selected in July 2021.

The PING Junior Solheim Cup will take place from 1-2 September 2021 at Sylvania Golf & Country Club, Ohio, USA. 

The road to Ohio for Europe’s top junior amateurs will start in January 2021. The first qualifying event on the schedule will be the Portuguese International Ladies’ Amateur Championship in January and the last will be the European Ladies’ Amateur Championship, which will be held in July at the Alwoodley Golf Club in England.

With stops in Spain, France, Germany, Sweden, Netherlands and Ireland in between, the seven-month ranking race will see the leading six players automatically qualifying to represent Team Europe and a further six being selected by Team Europe Captain, Annika Sorenstam and the selection panel. In the event of a tie in the individual standings, team selection will be decided based on the European Women’s Amateur Ranking.

First played in 2002, the PING Junior Solheim Cup follows a similar format to the Solheim Cup, featuring 12 European junior amateurs (born 2003 & later) vs their American counterparts and has produced some of the world’s leading players, including European stars Georgia Hall, Charley Hull and Carlota Ciganda, as well as American talents, Lexi Thompson, Paula Creamer and the Korda sisters, Jessica and Nelly.

Europe's Junior Solheim Cup Captain, Annika Sorenstam said:

"I look forward to watching the girls play in 2021 with an eye on making Team Europe. I’m also excited to motivate and inspire them through the Captain’s Letters I’ll be sending them as I encourage them to play their very best. My memories of the Solheim Cup are some of the best I have from my professional career and I can’t wait to share some of those experiences with the girls."

The European Qualifying Events for 2021 are:

THE SOLHEIM CUP WILL MOVE TO EVEN YEARS IN 2024

The Solheim Cup will move to even years from 2024, after the Ryder Cup was rescheduled to odd years as a result of this year's COVID-19 pandemic.

The LPGA & LET announced today that the Solheim Cup will move to even years starting in 2024. The 2021 and 2023 competitions will be held in their previously announced dates and locations in Ohio and Spain, respectively, with back-to-back playings in 2023 and 2024.

The Solheim Cup Committee approved the change to even years following the announcement that the Ryder Cup will move to an odd-year schedule, after the 2020 competition was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The specific dates and location for the 2024 Solheim Cup, which will be held in the United States, will be announced in the future.

Dennis Baggett, Executive Director of the Solheim Cup, said:

"With the world sporting schedule changing so much due to current difficulties, we felt it was in the best interest of the Solheim Cup to return to an off-year rotation with the Ryder Cup. When the competition returns to the United States in 2024, I have no doubt fans will have an incredible opportunity to celebrate the best women golfers from the United States and Europe as they represent their home countries."

The 2021 Solheim Cup will take place from 4-6 September at the Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio. USA Captain Pat Hurst, along with Assistant Captains Angela Stanford and Michelle Wie West (a 3rd assistant captain will be named in 2021), will lead the best players from the United States as they look to reclaim the Solheim Cup on home soil. The European team will once again be led by Captain Catriona Matthew, with Vice Captains Laura Davies, Kathryn Imrie and Suzann Pettersen by her side.

The 2023 Solheim Cup will take place from 22-24 September at Finca Cortesin in Andalucia, Spain. It will be followed a week later by the Ryder Cup in Italy, giving European sports fans a rare two-week spectacle of competition and patriotic fervour.

SCOTTISH REGIONAL MEDAL FINALS - ENTRIES ARE OPEN

Entries for The 2021 Medal Finals are open! Male & female Club Qualifiers from 2019 & 2020 can now enter one of the six Regional Medal Finals.

Scottish Golf released the following statement tody:

"Entries for the combined Medal Finals event are now open to male and female club golfers, with 2019 and 2020 club qualifiers invited to enter into one of six Regional Finals taking place during May and July next year."

"On the day of the Regional Final, male and female players will have the chance to play on the same course with the top six net male and female qualifiers booking their place at the Home of Golf for the Grand Final which will be played over The Dukes Course on Saturday 15 August 2021."

"A full list of dates and venues can be found below:"

"To enter, please click here." **

**Before you enter, please check with your club to ensure that you are eligible. Some of the rules for Scottish Regional Medal Finals have changed this year.

EMILY PEDERSEN WINS SAUDI LADIES INTERNATIONAL

Emily Pedersen won the Saudi Ladies International after a dramatic play-off against 2019 Solheim Cup star Georgia Hall.

Denmark's Emily Pedersen made Ladies European Tour (LET) history at the inaugural Aramco Saudi Ladies International with a dramatic birdie on the first play-off hole to win her second LET title of the season from major winner Georgia Hall, after the pair tied in regulation at -10.

As a result of the victory, the 24-year-old Dane has extended her lead to an almost unassailable position in the Race to Costa del Sol and will collect the season’s largest winner’s check, outside of the majors, of €150,000.

After her win Emily Pedersen said:

"It’s very special, I am very happy that I got to be the first person to win a tournament here and I think it is great that we are playing here. The country has a bright future in golf and hopefully we’ll be back for many years."

"I’m really proud that I got it back twice, I feel like I was out of it at the start of the front nine, then again at the start of the back nine but I kept fighting back."

"I changed my strategy on the 18th. I’ve hit driver the last three days, but I’ve been a bit off and with the flag on the right side we talked about laying it up left and accessing the back pin. I knew I had to make a birdie on the last and I just kind of felt the shot. It was one of the best shots I’ve ever hit."

Gracious in defeat, Georgia Hall said:

"I played well today, and it was certainly windier than yesterday. It was just a shame my putt on 18 didn’t go in. Emily hit an amazing shot on the last hole in regulation and it was very brave. I’m really pleased for her as she’s a really nice girl and she hit a fantastic chip (in the playoff) and that’s where I lost it."

Scotland's Carly Booth and Alison Muirhead finished in a group of five players tied for 16th on -2, while Kelsey MacDonald finished tied for 38th on +5 and Kylie Hendry finished tied for 55th on +9.

LYDIA HALL & EMILY PEDERSEN LEAD THE WAY IN SAUDI

Lydia Hall and Emily Pedersen are tied for the lead on -10 going into the final round of this week's $1m Arnaco Saudi Ladies International.

Welsh star Lydia Hall shot a three-under-par third round of 69 to share the lead with Denmark's Emily Pedersen on -10 after Day 3 of the inaugural Aramco Saudi Ladies International.

Overnight leader Pedersen may not have had her ‘A’ game on course at Royal Greens Golf & Country Club, but the in-form Dane battled to a round of 71 to keep herself in with a chance of collecting her second victory of the season.

Major winner Georgia Hall (ENG), who set a course record 65 to take the first-round lead, finished just one shot behind the leaders after returning a three-under-par third round of 69.

Top Scot is Carly Booth. She was briefly tied for third with Georgia Hall after shooting four birdies in the first seven holes, but a run of four bogeys at the turn saw her finish with a level-par third round of 72 and drop back into a tie for 7th on -7.

Alison Muirhead (SCO) is tied for 21st on level-par for the tournament, while Kelsey MacDonald (SCO) is tied for 39th on +4 and Kylie Henry (SCO) is tied for 50th on +5.

Fellow Scots Michele Thomson, Laura Murray and Heather MacRae all missed the cut for the weekend, which fell at +7.

2021 SCOTTISH REGIONAL MEDAL FINALS ANNOUNCED

Scottish Golf has invited all affiliated clubs in Scotland to enter their top performing male & female players into the 2021 Regional Medal Finals.

Yesterday Scottish Golf announced:

"Entries for the 2021 Scottish Medal Finals will open on Monday 16 November, with affiliated clubs invited to enter their top 2019 & 2020 qualifiers into 1 of 6 Regional Finals taking place during May and July 2021."

"On the day of the Regional Final, male and female players will play alongside each other with the top 6 male and top 6 female net qualifiers booking their place at the Home of Golf for the Grand Final which will be played over The Dukes Course on Saturday 15 August 2021."

Scottish Golf has issued affiliated clubs with event details and a link which can be sent to qualifiers in order to book their place in the Regional Finals.

SEVEN SCOTS IN FIRST WOMEN'S PRO EVENT IN SAUDI

Seven Scots are set to tee it up in this week's inaugural Aramco Saudi Ladies International at Royal Greens Golf & Country Club on the Red Sea coast.

The small 'Tartan Army', that will help make golfing history this week as they play in Saudi Arabia’s first ever professional female tournament, will include LET winners Carly Booth and Kylie Henry.

They will be joined by Kelsey MacDonald, Michele Thomson, Alison Muirhead and Laura Murray, who have secured spots in the $1m event through their LET categories, and also Heather MacRae, who was delighted to land an invitation to the LET event.

Catriona Matthew was due to make it eight Scots, but the Solheim Cup captain was withdrawn after testing positive for Covid-19 ahead of last week's Omega Dubai Moonlight Classic, although she was later cleared after two subsequent tests proved to be negative.

While some LET players, including England's duo Meghan MacLaren and Mel Reid, have decided to skip the event due to concerns over Saudi Arabia's human rights record, there is still a strong line-up for the event.

Heading that line-up are four 2019 Solheim Cup team-mates, Georgia Hall, Charley Hull, Anna Nordqvist and Anne van Dam, and the 2020 Race to Costa del Sol leader, Emily Pederson.

The field will also include four-time major-winner Laura Davies. Thrilled to be part of the landmark event in womenʼs golf, Davies said:

"The Aramco Saudi Ladies International presented by PIF will be quite the watershed moment that allows us to bring the sport we love to a whole new audience in a way that I think blazes a trail for women and sportswomen in and out of Saudi Arabia."

"Weʼre taking womenʼs golf to a new frontier, both in terms of inspiring new women to give the sport a try and in helping grow the Ladies European Tour event calendar, so itʼs a tournament Iʼm really excited to play in."

The LET event, which takes place from 12-15 November, will be followed on 17-19 November at the same venue by the Saudi Ladies Team International.

To celebrate the historic nature of both tournaments, Golf Saudi is launching a ‘Ladies First Clubʼ, which will offer free golf to 1,000 women living across the Kingdom.

SCOTTISH GOLF UPDATE ON COVID-19 GUIDANCE

Scottish Golf has issued a new COVID-19 update on the travel guidance for golfers and on the funding available for clubs affected by current restrictions. 

The full statement issued by Scottish Golf today reads as follows:

"Following the First Minister's update in Parliament on Tuesday 10th November, Scottish Golf has been in further dialogue with our partners at sportscotland to gain further clarity on the current travel guidance in place. We are now able to provide the following updated travel guidance for all golf clubs below:"

• "You should avoid travel to other areas regardless of their level unless essential."

• "For exercise/sport – there is an exemption, however, it is limited:"

• "In Level 4 - [It is] not permitted to drive outside your Local Authority area for exercise – you can cross boundaries in the process of exercising i.e if a golf course straddles two Local Authority area boundaries."

• "In Level 3 - You can travel anywhere within your local authority area to take part in sport. You may cross a local authority boundary by up to 5 miles if necessary, this includes where a golf course straddles two local authority areas. You can currently travel up to 5 miles into another local authority for sport where this is absolutely necessary and you cannot access the sport otherwise. If there is a more local option to play golf within your local authority area, this would be recommended as unnecessary travel is being actively discouraged."

• "Levels 0-2 - Adults should, where possible, minimise unnecessary travel between areas and not travel to a Level 3 or 4."

"It is important that we continue to show good adherence to the current guidance in place and Scottish Golf encourages all clubs and golfers to play their part in demonstrating that as a sport, we are acting responsibly and safely amidst the ongoing restrictions."

"The current guidance for golf remains the same and is summarised below:"

• "On-course golf activities can continue under our current Phase 3 Guidance, with up to four players from four different households allowed to participate together. There are no changes to access to toilet facilities, locker rooms or professional shops which can continue to be utilised provided all appropriate measures, such as the use of face masks, increased sanitation are adhered to."

• "Clubhouses and sports facilities which provide catering and bar services, can operate providing they adhere to Scottish Government guidance appropriate to the protection level in which they are operating."

"Clubs will be aware that The Coronavirus Restrictions Fund closed to applications at 5pm on Tuesday 3rd November 2020. This has now been replaced by the Strategic Framework Business Fund."

"The new Fund consists of two grants which are available to affected golf clubs:"

• "Temporary Closure Grant - £2,000 or £3,000 (depending on rateable value) if your business is required to close by law."

• "Business Restrictions Grant - £1,400 or £2,100 (depending on rateable value) if your business can remain open but is specifically required to modify its operations by law, for example having to close earlier than normal or demand for your products or services has been reduced because of the pandemic."

"On 31st of October 2020 Economy Secretary, Fiona Hyslop, released this statement confirming that sports clubs would be eligible for ‘hardship and closure grants’ that will be replaced by the Strategic Framework Business Fund and we would encourage any golf club facing restrictions to apply."

THE MASTERS AT AUGUSTA IN THE FALL

This year, The Masters will be like no other. For the first time in its history, the Augusta National will host The Masters in the Fall and also a pandemic.

The 84th Masters tournament, which was postponed in April because of the coronavirus pandemic, is set to begin this Thursday, 12 November, with Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player acting as Honorary Starters.

Normally, The Masters would be the first major of the season and held in April not November. But this is not a normal year and, like many other events in 2020, The Masters has had to adjust.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, there will be no patrons or visitors on the grounds this week. There will be no spring colours of red and lavender azaleas, pink dogwood and orange honeysuckle. There will also be no signature roars, which are the very essence of what makes Augusta National so magical. As Tiger Woods once said:

"It echoes there. It travels. It's unlike any place in the world."

There will be other changes too. The Par 3 Contest, which is traditionally played on the Wednesday prior to the tournament, has been cancelled. Due to the lack of day-light, players will be scheduled to start from the first and 10th tees for the first two rounds. Only the lowest 50 players and ties will qualify for the weekend.

But, there are some traditions that will not change. While The Masters may look and sound very different this year, come Sunday afternoon the winner will be putting on a jacket in a very familiar colour.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GENERAL PLAY SCORES

Under the World Handicap System (WHS) you have the option to submit General Play Scores. This can be done at any time over a measured course.

You can use the Scottish Golf App to submit these scores.

Scottish Golf has released the following statement:

"One of the major benefits of the new World Handicap System (WHS) is the option to submit General Play scores."

"General Play enables you to submit scores for their WHS Handicap Index from any course at any time – you can even decide to do this on the day. Therefore you don’t have to wait until the next medal day at your club or for an open competition in order to improve your handicap."

"It’s also a great way to see how regular submission of scores will give you a Handicap Index that is more reflective of your play, which is one of the key benefits of WHS. You can find out more on WHS Handicapping from your golf club or by clicking here."

"Whether you are playing socially with friends at your local course, or looking to test yourself on a Championship Course, General Play will allow you to submit a score from any tees you choose."

"You can register and submit your General Play scores quickly and easily through the Scottish Golf App. Read our simple guide on how to do this by clicking here."

"Download the Scottish Golf App:"
iTunes
Google Play

WELSH CLUBS REOPEN AS LATEST LOCKDOWN ENDS

Welsh golf clubs are welcoming golfers back to their clubs this week, after the end of the country's 17-day "circuit-breaker lockdown".

Wales Golf issued a COVID-19 update yesterday, which confirmed that all courses, professional shops, driving ranges and golf club restaurants in Wales would be allowed to reopen from Monday 9 November 2020.

You can read the full statement here.

English golf clubs & driving ranges are all currently closed as part of a new month-long lockdown in England, which came into force on Thursday 5 November 2020.

JUNIOR WINTER EVENT AT FORTROSE & ROSEMARKIE

The Junior Winter Series event at Fortrose & Rosemarkie has been rescheduled to Sunday 14 March 2021.

The Winter Series Team has issued the following statement:

"Fortrose & Rosemarkie Update:"
"After discussions today [wednesday 4 November] with Mike MacDonald at F& R, the event has been rescheduled for Sunday 14th March 2021. It will still count as part of the Winter Series. The 98 players who entered (there was 1 W/D prior to the draw being made) will have first refusal. We have 34 tee times from 8.24am which will accommodate 102 players. To re-enter, simply contact me by text or email from Monday 23rd November 2020. Hopefully, the new draw will be similair to the one already circulated."

"Sincerely," 
"Paul"
"on behalf of the Winter Series Team"

The updated 2020/21 Junior Winter Series fixture list is as follows:

11th February 2021 - West Kilbride Golf Club (Entries are open)
14th March 2021 - Fortrose & Rosemarkie (Rescheduled from Nov. 2020)

You can find out more &/or enter at: @juniortourscotland

SCOTTISH GOLF ZOOM CALL ON NEW SCOTTISH GOLF APP

Scottish Golf has published a video of its latest Zoom Panel Call, which focussed on showcasing the key features of the new Scottish Golf App

To watch a video of the Scottish Golf Zoom Call click on the link below:
Scottish Golf App Zoom Panel Call - Episode 13

Hosted by Iain Evans, Club Business Manager at Scottish Golf, the Zoom Call gave over 500 golfers from across the country the opportunity to hear from, and pose questions to, David Kernohan, Handicapping and Course Rating Officer at Scottish Golf, Gordon Crae from Gourock Golf Club and Joe Persh, Head of Development and Technology at OCS.

Following the Scottish Golf App Zoom Call, David Kernohan, said: 

"We would like to thank everyone for their time in tuning in to today’s session. As mentioned on the call, we are really pleased with how the implementation of WHS has gone so far in Scotland with over 77,000 registered users on the App."

"As with all change, it will take some time to adjust, but we are here to help as much as possible. The most important thing for golfers to remember is that by trusting the system and submitting scores, you will very quickly see how your handicap index adjusts to your demonstrated playing ability."

"Following the significant demand for this week’s call, we will be looking to host further Zoom Panel Calls in the coming weeks to give more golfers the opportunity to tune-in live and find out more."

"Should anyone wish to find out more about the Scottish Golf App, you can do so on our dedicated webpage here."

"If you would like to read about how initial Handicap Index calculation was done, information can be found here."

"You can also read more about what the World Handicap System is here."

"Finally, should you have any issues with the Scottish Golf App, you can contact us using the following form here and a member of our team will look into this for you."

CATRIONA MATTHEW TESTS NEGATIVE FOR COVID-19

Catriona Matthew tweets she is "COVID-19 free" after receiving 2 negative tests, following her positive test on arrival at this week's LET event in Dubai.

Europe's Solheim Cup captain, Catriona Matthews, was withdrawn from this week's OMEGA Dubai Moonlight Classic after a test on her arrival at the Emirates Golf Club on Monday showed up as positive.

The Scot was immediately placed into isolation, but she has since had two negative tests (24 hours apart), which means she is free to return home.

The Ladies European Tour (LET) has issued the following statement:

"In accordance with official guidelines and health and safety protocols put in place to mitigate the risk of transmission of COVID-19, Annabel Dimmock, Catriona Matthew and Ursula Wikström have returned two negative COVID-19 tests (24 hours apart). As such, all three players are cleared by the Health Authorities and LET medical professionals to leave self-isolation."

"Contacts identified as part of the track and trace process will be managed in accordance with the Health Authorities guidelines and advice from LET medical professionals."

"In the current climate with a global pandemic, the health, safety, and wellbeing of the LET players, officials, and staff, is and remains, the LET’s number one concern. These are challenging times, but we are all responsible and have a role to play to stop the spread of COVID-19."

"We thank all the players, officials, and medical staff for displaying the highest levels of professionalism during this challenging time."

Catriona Matthew has since tweeted:

"I‘m happy to say I’m COVID-19 free (2 negative tests 24 hrs apart) & I’m heading home. Thank you @OMEGAGolfDubai & health authority for their support during this very stressful time & I look fwd to competing again soon. Thank you also to everyone for all their supportive messages."

MINJEE LEE WINS OMEGA DUBAI MOONLIGHT CLASSIC

World No 9, Minjee Lee, secured her 1st LET title after a dramatic play-off against Celine Boutier at the OMEGA Dubai Moonlight Classic.

Seven time LPGA tour winner, Minjee Lee (AUS) carded a three-under 69 under the floodlights at Emirates Golf Club to finish on -10 under alongside Solheim Cup star Celine Boutier (FRA), who had led for most of the day until a late bogey saw her post a final-round 68.

Minjee Lee sealed victory with a clutch birdie putt from 20ft at the first extra hole in a thrilling shoot-out against Boutier in the Dubai moonlight.

After her win, Minjee Lee said:

"I couldn't really see the break too well on the last hole, but I thought it would be about two cups outside the right and luckily I hit it hard enough and it dropped. It feels pretty special to be here playing at night-time and the course has been amazing. It's been a really fun week."

Overnight leader, Caroline Hedwall (SWE) finished one shot behind the leaders, tied for 3rd on -9 with Laura Fuenfstueck (GER) and defending champion Nuria Iturrioz (ESP).

Two Scots earned themselves top ten spots after finishing with strong final rounds. Kelsey MacDonald (SCO) finished tied for 8th on -7 after closing with a four-under round of 68, while Kylie Henry (SCO) jumped into a tie for 10th on -6 after firing nine birdies and no bogeys in a course-record 63.

ACTION FROM FINAL DAY AT DUBAI MOONLIGHT CLASSIC

Watch the final day action at the Omega Dubai Moonlight Classic for free on the Sky Sports YouTube channel.

Solheim Cup star Caroline Headwall (SWE) takes a one-shot lead into the final round of the Omega Dubai Moonlight Classic.

The six-time Ladies European Tour winner added a bogey-free 70 to her first round score of 65 to finish on -9 and maintain a narrow one-shot lead over Meghan MacLaren (ENG). World No 9, Minjee Lee (AUS) is two strokes back in a share of third alongside Laura Fuenfstueck (GER) on -7.

Bronte Law (ENG) posted a second successive 70 to move inside the top-ten on -4, Charley Hull (ENG) got back to level-par for the tournament with a three-under 69, while Georgia Hall (ENG) is in the group on +1.

The leading Scot is Kelsey MacDonald (SCO), tied for 12th on -3.

ENGLISH GOLF CLUBS TOLD TO CLOSE FOR FOUR WEEKS

English golf clubs & driving ranges have been told they must close their facilities for four weeks from tomorrow, Thursday 5 November 2020.

England Golf's CEO, Jeremy Tomlinson, has confirmed that, despite intense lobbying of government from golf industry bodies, including England Golf and the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf, increased national lockdown measures will force the closure of golf clubs and facilities from tomorrow.

There was some cause for optimism after the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, encouraged people to get outdoors and exercise and said that people can meet up with one other person from outside their household.

However, after three days of challenging the government to keep courses and facilities open, the answer was no.

England Golf has now issued out an official statement to all affiliated clubs and facilities, which states as follows:

"It is with a feeling of deep regret that we must now inform all affiliated golf clubs and driving ranges that they should prepare to close from Thursday 5 November until Wednesday 2 December 2020."

"The Government engaged in detailed conversation, but has decided not to amend its original guidance and we would ask all clubs and golfers to respect the legislation that is set to come into force overnight."

You can read the full statement here.

JUNIOR WINTER SERIES NOVEMBER EVENT POSTPONED

The Junior Winter Series event at Fortrose & Rosemarkie, which was due to be held on Sunday 15 November, has been postponed.

The Winter Series Team has issued the following statement:

"F & R EVENT POSTPONED:"
"I have just emailed everyone with the disappointing news, but we think it makes sense at this challenging and difficult time. We hope, very much, to reschedule this event, if at all possible."

"Paul,"
"on behalf of the Winter Series Team"

The Winter Series Team continued:

"It will be administratively easier to hold on to all entry monies meantime. This will help when the (hopefully) rescheduled event takes place. If anyone wishes a refund, now, for this event, please contact me with your bank details."

"Further updates will be posted as soon as possible."

For further info and updates go to: @juniortourscotland

NEW JUNIOR WINTER SERIES EVENT AT WEST KILBRIDE

The fourth Junior Winter Series Order of Merit event has been confirmed as: 11th February 2021 at West Kilbride Golf Club.

Entries for the Junior Winter Series event at West Kilbride are open. Both girls and boys can enter. To find out more &/or enter go to the "Events" section on the Stephen Gallacher Foundation website at: http://sgfoundation.co.uk

The draws for the Fortrose & Rosemarkie event, which is due to be held on Sunday 15 November 2020, have been emailed out to all 95 competitors and are published on the Junior Tour Facebook page at: @juniortourscotland

CATRIONA MATTHEW TESTS POSITIVE FOR COVID

Three LET Players, including Catriona Matthew, have withdrawn from the OMEGA Dubai Moonlight Classic after testing positive for COVID.

The Ladies European Tour (LET) has issued the following statement:

"The Ladies European Tour has withdrawn Annabel Dimmock, Catriona Matthew and Ursula Wikström from this week’s OMEGA Dubai Moonlight Classic after the players tested positive for COVID-19."

"The LET has implemented a strict COVID-19 testing process throughout the season and the players, who had not, and have still not, exhibited any symptoms, were tested upon arrival into Dubai on Monday morning."

"The three players have followed all the LET guidance and protocols put in place to mitigate the risk of transmission of COVID-19 and will now remain in self-isolation for a minimum of fourteen days in accordance with the mandatory Health Authority and medical professional guidelines."

"Contacts identified as part of the track and trace process will be managed in accordance with the Health Authorities guidelines."

Catriona Matthew has since tweeted:

"I have had to withdraw from the Omega Dubai moonlight Classic after unfortunately testing positive for COVID-19 on my arrival. I am feeling fine and have no symptoms. I would like to thank the @LETgolf @OMEGAGolfDubai for all their help and support."

SCOTTISH GOLF UPDATE ON COVID-19 GUIDANCE

Scottish Golf has issued a new COVID-19 update in response to the Scottish Government's new targeted Local Authority coronavirus restrictions.

The full statement issued by Scottish Golf today reads as follows:

"Following our email on Friday 30 October, Scottish Golf is now in a position to provide all affiliated clubs with further guidance relating to the Scottish Government’s COVID protection levels by local area. The latest version of our COVID-19 Guidance for Golf Clubs and Golfers can be accessed here."

"The updated guidance is summarised as follows and unless otherwise stated are effective immediately:"

• "On-course golf activities can continue under our current Phase 3 Guidance, with up to four players from four different households allowed to participate together. There are no changes to access to toilet facilities, locker rooms or professional shops which can continue to be utilised provided all appropriate measures, such as use of face masks, increased sanitation are adhered to."

• "You should avoid travel to other areas regardless of their level unless essential."

• "For exercise/sport – there is an exemption, however, it is limited:"

• "In tier 4, not permitted to drive outside your Local Authority area for exercise – you can cross boundaries in the process of exercising i.e if a golf course straddles two Local Authority area boundaries."

• "In tier 3, you are permitted to travel around 5 miles for exercise."

• "In tier 2 & tier 1, you are permitted to travel freely for exercise within your own Local Authority area."

• "U18s – can travel freely for exercise in Tiers 0-3. They should not travel in or out of a Tier 4 area."

• "All golfers should be aware of travel guidance outlined by the Scottish Government and this should always be followed."

• "Clubhouses and sports facilities which provide catering and bar services, can operate providing they adhere to Scottish Government guidance appropriate to the protection level in which they are operating."

"We would also like to remind clubs that following representations made by Scottish Golf on behalf of its member clubs, we are pleased to confirm that the Scottish Government has agreed hardship grants (outside the central belt) and closure grants (inside the central belt) will be accessible to sports clubhouses which are licensed to serve alcohol, and are therefore equivalent to bars that must close or modify their operations."

"Clubs can now apply for these grants here. Please note that applications for these grants close at 5pm on Tuesday 3rd November."

"Once again, we would like to thank all of our clubs and golfers across Scotland for your continued co-operation and adherence to the current guidance and ask that you continue to play your part during these challenging times."

"We will continue to keep all clubs and tournament organisers updated via our dedicated COVID-19 webpage which can be accessed here."

ENGLISH GOLFERS FIGHT TO KEEP THEIR COURSES OPEN

English Golfers were in shock on Saturday as golf clubs were told to close from Thursday as part of new month-long lockdown restrictions in England.

England Golf's Chief Executive, Jeremy Tomlinson hit out at the Government's plan and called for an immediate rethink. In an open letter to "fellow golfers", published on England's Golf's website, he said:

"I would like to make clear England Golf’s intention to respectfully challenge the government’s rationale for closing golf courses. We will do so utilising all in our network – MPs, colleagues, media and friends – to make sure we are heard by government."

"Listening to the prime minister, the news that he is actively encouraging safe and responsible outdoor exercise for households or two individuals pointed to our great game of golf being at the heart of this policy."

"The guidance which followed stating that golf courses were on a list of venues which should close, therefore, appeared contradictory and came out of the blue."

Within hours of Prime Minister Boris Johnson's announcement on Saturday evening, that outdoor sports would be banned from Thursday as part of new lockdown measures in England, a petition was raised calling for golf to get a reprieve.

By the time the petition had closed last night, it had attracted over 250,000 signatures, more than double the figure required for a debate in Parliament.

Courses in the Republic of Ireland are currently closed as part of the country's new Level 5 Covid-19 regulations, but Northern Ireland's clubs and courses remain open.

In Wales, courses are closed for two-and-a-half weeks as part of its "firebreak" measures.

There has been no hint from the Scottish Government that golf courses could be closed as part of the new tier restrictions being introduced around the country today.

INITIAL HANDICAP INDEX CALCULATION EXPLAINED

The new World Handicap System (WHS) goes live in Scotland and the rest of Great Britain & Ireland today, Monday 2 November 2020.

Scottish Golf has issued a statement about the initial WHS Handicap Index calculation as follows:

"From Thursday 23rd October Scottish Golf started the World Handicap System (WHS) transition process of golfer handicaps as we move to implement the new WHS. The main part of this transition was the calculation of every current CONGU Handicap into a WHS Index and golfers may have noticed their projected handicap has changed several times over the last few days as we aligned the data from the two systems."

"To find out more about how we have generated initial handicap values that are as accurate as possible, please click here to access our WHS Initial Handicap Index document. This document also aims to answer some of the additional questions members may have around the process."

GET READY FOR THE WHS ON THE SCOTTISH GOLF APP

Scottish Golf is encouraging all Golfers in Scotland to download the new Scottish Golf App ahead of the WHS coming into play in Scotland.

Scottish Golf have issued the following statement:

"Golfers in Scotland are encouraged to download the Scottish Golf App ahead of WHS coming into play in Scotland. The App, which is available on Apple and Google Play, has already been downloaded over 50,000 times and will allow all golfers in Scotland to view their projected Handicap Index ahead of 2nd November."

"We would like to remind all golfers that this is currently a projected index and may be subject to change as we continue to run all available data through the calculator. This means that additional scores may be added to your record as the calculator runs its process but we wanted to start giving golfers an idea of what it may look like as we get closer to our WHS go-live date."

"For more details on how you can download the Scottish Golf App, and to access our updated App registration FAQ's, click here."

CATRIONA MATTHEW PLAYS 'A ROUND WITH RADAR'

Get to know Catriona Matthew as Wayne 'Radar' Riley challenges her around North Berwick Golf Course in Episode 9 of #ARoundWithRadar



ARoundWithRadar, is a great little PING golf production made with Sky Sports Golf commentator Wayne Riley, a former Australian & European tour player.

In the ninth episode of the ARoundWithRadar series, Wayne 'Radar' Riley takes on European Solheim Cup Captain, Catriona Matthew, in a 9-hole match at her childhood club, North Berwick, in Scotland. 'Radar' chats with 'Beany' about her Women’s British Open triumph in 2009, PING’s longstanding support of the women’s game, and the dramatic conclusion of the 2019 Solheim Cup at Gleneagles as she led Team Europe to a memorable victory.

You can visit the PING YouTube channel to watch the other 8 episodes in the ARoundWithRadar series, which includes rounds with PING Tour Pros Eddie Pepperell, Miguel Ángel Jiménez and Lee Westwood, at:

https://www.youtube.com/user/PING