NORTHERN IRELAND CAN RETURN TO GOLF

The Golfing Union of Ireland has confirmed that from today golf clubs in Northern Ireland can reopen their courses for members.

Last week, Northern Ireland's Executive published its five-phase blueprint for recovery in Northern Ireland. Although the lockdown remains in place and the next formal review date is not due until Thursday 28 May, the Executive decided to allow some aspects of the first phase to start this week.

At Monday's daily Covid-19 briefing, Northern Ireland's First Minister, Arlene Foster, announced that some "outdoor activity where social distancing can occur" could now proceed. She went on to confirm that golf would be one of the few outdoor activities allowed to restart, adding:

"I know that Golf clubs will be relieved that players will be returning to their fairways"

The Golfing Union of Ireland (GUI) & Irish Ladies Golf Union (ILGU) had already published a "Protocol for the Re-introduction of Golf in Northern Ireland" at the weekend. Northern Ireland's First Minister urged everyone to stick to those guidelines.

The GUI & ILGU also stressed in their introduction to the Protocol:

"As one of the first sports to be allowed to resume, there is a major responsibility on golf clubs and golfers to ensure that our sport is conducted in a safe and responsible manner. Full adherence to the provisions of this Protocol is absolutely essential."

"It should be noted that the Executive continues to monitor the situation closely and have not ruled out the reintroduction of restrictions which could see golf clubs closed once again, if the Protocol is not followed."

Some confusion surrounded the First Minister's announcement as she had not confirmed a date for when golf could restart. In the end, it fell to the Golfing Union of Ireland to clarify that golf clubs in Northern Ireland would be able to reopen their courses from Wednesday 20 May.

Last week golf clubs in England were allowed to reopen their courses. This week golf clubs in Wales, the Republic of Ireland and now Northern Ireland are allowed to open theirs. It means that Scotland is now the only country in Great Britain and Ireland where golf courses must remain closed.

SCOTTISH GOLF RESPONDS TO FM’S ANNOUNCEMENT

Scottish Golf has released a statement in response to the announcement made by Scotland's First Minister at yesterday's daily briefing.

It reads as follows:

"Following the First Minister’s daily briefing on Monday 18 May, Scottish Golf welcomes the announcement that more detail will be shared later this week on Scotland’s road map out of the current lockdown restrictions in Scotland."

"Scottish Golf are working through final details with the Scottish Government and sportscotland to ensure that when the time is right, golf can be included in any extension to restrictions and we look forward to sharing more detail of the Scottish Government’s publication on Thursday."

THE WAIT FOR GOLF IN SCOTLAND IS ALMOST OVER

Today, Scotland's first minister, Nicola Sturgeon, announced that golf could resume in Scotland by the 1st June.

Golf courses in England reopened last Wednesday. Golf courses in Wales and the Republic of Ireland will open today. But, as of this morning there was still no sign of when golf could resume in Scotland and Northern Ireland. That all changed at the Scottish government's daily briefing this afternoon.

Scotland's first minister, Nicola Sturgeon has made no apologies for taking a cautious approach to the coronavirus crisis, but the resumption of golf in both England and Wales has put pressure on the Scottish government to allow the game to return in Scotland.

Last week Sturgeon gave the first glimmer of hope for golf. On Friday, she confirmed that this week she would unveil plans for navigating the exit from lockdown. She also indicated that restrictions on outdoor activities would be among the first to be relaxed.

Today she confirmed that the Scottish government will publish a "route map" for easing the lockdown in Scotland this Thursday. She also confirmed that:

"Assuming that we see progress in suppressing the virus, the first phase will start start from the next formal review date of Thursday 28 May."

"Within a few days of that we will aim to allow, for example, more outdoor activity such as: being able to sit in the park; meet up outdoors with someone from another household, as long as you stay  socially distanced; some limited outdoor sporting activities like golf and fishing; the opening of garden centres and recycling facilities and the resumption of some out-door work."

For struggling golf clubs in Scotland the announcement of a re-start could not come soon enough. The good news from golf clubs south of the border is that along with the huge surge in bookings there has also been a huge surge in membership applications.

In the meantime, golf clubs in Scotland are being advised by their software providers to prepare for the reintroduction of tee times, after several clubs in England experienced problems due to the demand.

The Managing Director of Club Systems, Richard Peabody has urged all clubs in Scotland to:

“Prepare for golf, it is happening, courses in Scotland will open and it will be soon, get ready now and avoid the rush. The rush in England caused a massive strain on providers’ web servers as did sending emails at the last minute.”

Assuming the green light for golf is given on Thursday 28 May, some of the pessimists amongst us will be in no doubt that the re-start will see an end to the fair weather we've enjoyed on our daily walks. But, after more than two months of staying at home in lockdown, I'm sure that none of us will care.

ALL COUNTY JAMBOREES IN SCOTLAND ARE CANCELLED

The four County Jamborees in Scotland have become the latest casualties of the coronavirus crisis.

For those less familiar with ladies' county golf in Scotland, there are fifteen county organisations, split into four regional divisions. The North, East and West divisions have four counties each, whilst the South division has three. Each division holds an annual county jamboree to which each county in that division sends a team. The format is match-play. The county team that wins their division's jamboree earns a place in the Scottish County Finals and the chance to be crowned Scottish County Champions.

This year, the West Division Inter-county Jamboree was due to be played at Cardross Golf Club from 15-17 June, the North at Monifeith Golf Links from 13-15 June, the South at Minto Golf Club from 20-22 June and the East at Kingsknowe Golf Club from 4-6 July. Scottish Golf had arranged to host the Women's County Finals at Forres Golf Club from 28-30 August.

The first of the competitions to go was the Scottish Women's County Finals. It went from the fixture list when Scottish Golf cancelled all its competitions on the 9 April. The move came only two weeks after the government had imposed the current lockdown. It was a shock to all.

The next to go were the three county jamborees scheduled for June. With no end to the lockdown in sight, the county captains for each of the West, South and North divisions decided in turn that they had no option but to cancel. By the end of April all three jamborees had gone.

This week, the last of the county jamborees in Scotland bit the dust. As the event was in July rather than June, the East Division captains had decided to defer the decision about their jamboree for a bit longer. This week, with no real hope of the event going ahead, they bowed to the inevitable and cancelled.

This the first time since the second World War that the Scottish Women's County Finals has missed a year. This is also the first year that there will be no county jamborees held in Scotland.

WALES IS SET TO RETURN TO GOLF ON MONDAY

Wales Golf has announced that golf clubs in Wales "are permitted to open if they so wish" from Monday 18 May.

The announcement by Wales Golf was a surprise. Only two days before, as part of a joint response by UK golf bodies to the PM's announcement that golf could re-start in England, Wales Golf had confirmed that the golf courses in Wales would "remain closed for now".

The u-turn came after the Welsh Government's Director of Culture, Sport and Tourism, Jason Thomas, informed a Welsh Government committee yesterday morning:

"[The] Legal clarification is that golf courses are not included on the list of businesses or establishments that must remain closed - they have never been on that list. It's been other measures in force that has restricted the ability of the clubs to open - travel measures etc, so we have clarified this on the Welsh Government website. Do they have to be closed? No."

In a statement released yesterday afternoon Welsh Golf announced:

"Following recent Welsh Government announcements and the revision of certain Covid-19 related restrictions golf clubs are permitted to open if they so wish. It is entirely at each golf club’s discretion as to whether they choose to open and if so when they choose to do so. We would advise that clubs that do wish to re-open do not do so immediately so as to ensure they have sufficient protocols in place to adhere to these guidelines, which we will be on hand to assist with. This would allow for a managed and co-ordinated reintroduction of golf across Wales from next Monday 18 May at the earliest."

Wales Golf went on to urge all its member clubs and golfers to follow the latest guidance published by the Welsh Government for travel and exercise and the current guidelines published by The R&A for golf facilities and golfers returning to golf under Covid-19 restrictions. There was also a warning:

"If clubs or members are found to be in breach of these guidelines then it could lead to [the] Welsh Government introducing measures that force golf courses to close."

Last week, the UK Government gave golf clubs in England the green light to open from 13 May. This week, the Welsh Government and Wales Golf have given the golf clubs in Wales the green light to open from 18 May. There is no word yet on when golf clubs in Scotland and Northern Ireland can re-open.

To read the full statement from Wales Golf click on the link below:
https://www.walesgolf.org/covid-19/

SCOTTISH COURSES MUST REMAIN CLOSED FOR NOW

Scottish Golf has reiterated that courses in Scotland should not be opened before the lockdown restrictions are lifted by the Scottish Government.

This morning, Scottish Golf emailed out a statement to all its member clubs. It reads as follows:

"Following on from the Prime Minister’s announcement last night, we are writing to confirm that the position outlined by Scottish Golf on Friday, 8 May for Golf in Scotland remains unchanged. The message is still clear – Stay at home and save lives.

We remain in daily dialogue with the Scottish Government and other golfing bodies throughout the UK, to ensure that when it is deemed safe to do so in Scotland, that we are ready to support our golf clubs with a concise protocol for reopening.

We will update our membership as soon as the Scottish Government agrees a plan on a safe return to golf. Scottish Golf would like to thank all of our members for their continued support in following the guidelines in such difficult times."

To read the Statement by Scottish Golf on Friday, 8 May, click below:
https://scottishgolf.org/a-statement-from-scottish-golf-8-may-2020/

THE R&A ISSUES RESPONSE TO PM'S ANNOUNCEMENT

In conjunction with the Home Nations, the PGA and other industry partners, The R&A has released a statement in response to the PM's announcement.

It reads as follows:

"Response from UK golf bodies to PM announcement

The UK Government has announced that golf will be able to resume in England on Wednesday, 13 May 2020. All outdoor sport must be done alone or within a household group and that includes golf. There is no change to the current position in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales and so golf courses in these countries must remain closed for now.

It is important to stress that this remains an extremely difficult situation throughout the UK and we are acutely aware that many lives have been lost to the COVID-19 pandemic. The effects of the virus will continue to be felt for a long time to come. As a sport we must work together to resume play responsibly as and when the relevant Government determines it is safe to do so. We must ensure that the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved from golfers, to club staff and greenkeepers is maintained at all times. Golf clubs and golfers have observed the lockdown very well and must keep it up and act responsibly as play resumes.

We recently provided documents giving guidance on operations and resuming play and golf clubs should consider this carefully as they restart their businesses. We also provided Essential Maintenance Guidelines to help greenkeepers to prepare their courses for play. We fully appreciate the huge amount of expertise that exists within golf clubs throughout the country and this best practice guidance simply aims to achieve as consistent an approach as possible to protecting everyone. We are seeking further clarification from the Government regarding other golf-related facilities.

The pandemic has already had a substantial impact on golf clubs and venues and the focus will soon turn to trying to recover from the crisis. As a group we will continue to do all we can to provide support and guidance in that effort.

These organisations have come together to help golf in the UK during the COVID-19 crisis and, through the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf, to work with Government to promote safe golf:

The Belfry; the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association; the British Golf Industry Association; England Golf; the Golf Club Managers’ Association; Golf Ireland; the Golfing Union of Ireland; the Irish Ladies’ Golf Union; IMG; The Professional Golfers’ Association; PING; The R&A; Scottish Golf; Syngenta; the UK Golf Federation; Wales Golf."

ALL SVLGA COMPETITIONS ARE CANCELLED

The Scottish Veteran Ladies' Golf Association has cancelled all of its SVLGA competitions for 2020, due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The competitions affected are: the SVLGA & English Divisions Jamboree at Glenbervie from 4-7 August; the SVLGA competitions at Blairgowrie from 21-22 September and the SVLGA Championship Finals at Blairgowrie from 27-28 September.

The SVLGA & Irish Senior Ladies' Match, at Roganston Golf Club in Dublin from 28-29 March, was called off in March.

The SVLGA AGM on 21 September will no longer be held at Blairgowrie golf club. The committee are looking at other options for hosting the meeting.

Looking ahead to next year, the SVLGA has agreed to remain as host for the Jamboree in 2021 and has already re-booked Glenbervie. The committee has also confirmed dates for the 2021 SVLGA competitions at Blairgowrie.

The current 2021 SVLGA Fixture list is as follows:

2-5 August
SVLGA & English Divisions Jamboree
Glenbervie Golf Club

19-20 September
SVLGA Championship Finals
Blairgowrie Golf Club

20-21 September
SVLGA Blairgowrie Competitions
Blairgowrie Golf Club

Details of the SVLGA & Irish Senior Ladies' Match are still to be confirmed.

CATRIONA MATTHEW AND PAUL LAWRIE TALK GOLF

Scottish Golf has posted a video of its exclusive, 30-minute, Zoom Webinar with Major Champions Catriona Matthew and Paul Lawrie.

Last Thursday, Scottish Golf’s Club Business Manager, Iain Evans hosted a Scottish Golf Zoom Webinar with special guests Catriona Matthew and Paul Lawrie. Together, they discussed a number of topics including junior golf in Scotland, their individual career highlights and how they are adapting to challenges posed by the current COVID-19 outbreak.

To watch the interview with the Major winning duo click on the link below:
https://ScottishGolf/Catriona-Matthew/Paul-Lawrie

 Iain Evans, Club Business Manager at Scottish Golf said:
“I would like to say a massive thank you to our excellent panellists, Paul and Catriona for providing all of our attendees with fascinating insight into their illustrious careers and all things golf in Scotland. We know that these are uncertain and challenging times for everyone involved in our great game and it was a pleasure to be able to bring two of Scotland’s greats together to answer questions from golf club managers and golfers across Scotland."

“Our Zoom Panel calls are providing some really valuable insights and we are delighted that we can continue to embrace digital technology during this period to bring people from across our golfing community together.”

WORLD AMATEUR TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS CANCELLED

The 2020 World Amateur Team Championships have been cancelled due to the Covid-19 Pandemic.

This year's World Amateur Team Championships were due to be played in Singapore in October: the Espirito Santo Trophy for women at Tanah Merah Country Club from 14-17 October and the Eisenhower Trophy for men at Sentosa Golf Club from 21-24 October.

Yesterday, the International Golf Federation announced that Championships had been cancelled due to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The IGF Executive Director, Antony Scanlon, said:
“This unprecedented decision was due to the global COVID-19 pandemic and the uncertainty that this has caused to ensuring that the 2020 WATC could be staged successfully. But most importantly, it was made to safeguard the health and safety of all athletes, officials and volunteers at the 2020 WATC, to which there was no certainty that this risk could be mitigated to an acceptable level.”

“I would also note that we gave thoughtful consideration to postponing the Championships to 2021. However, this would have created considerable scheduling and logistical issues that were insurmountable, plus we still could not say with absolute certainty that we could hold it without risk next year. Therefore, it is preferred that the IGF look forward to focusing on and delivering a wonderful 2022 event in France.”

Dating back to 1958, the World Amateur Team Championships host up to 72 countries who compete in a 72 hole of stroke play competition. Each country fields a team of two or three players with the two lowest scores counting per round. The event is biennial and rotates among three geographic zones of the world: Asia-Pacific, American and European-African.

Although, a Scottish women's team has never managed to win a World Amateur Team Championship title, a Scottish men's team has. In 2008, the Scottish three-man side of Wallace Booth, Calum Macaulay and Gavin Deer won the Eisenhower Trophy at Royal Adelaide in Australia by nine shots from a U. S. squad made up of Rickie Fowler, Billy Horschel and Jamie Lovemark.

IRELAND IS SET TO RETURN TO GOLF IN MID MAY

The Government of Ireland has announced that all golf courses in the Republic of Ireland can open from 18 May, on a restricted basis.

On Friday, the Government of Ireland published a phased Roadmap for the re-opening of the country. Phase 1 allows for some easing of restrictions on out-door activities. From 18 May it will be possible to:

"Open outdoor public sports amenities (e.g. pitches, tennis courts, golf courses etc) where social distancing can be maintained." and "People can exercise - either on their own or in a group of no more than 4 people - where social distancing can be maintained and where there is no contact with other people."

The national governing bodies for golf in Ireland, Golf Ireland, the Irish Ladies Golf Union and the Golfing Union of Ireland, all welcomed the decision. In a joint statement they confirmed:

"In the initial stage, play will be for members only and competitions will not be permitted. We would ask clubs to refrain from opening timesheets for booking until the protocol is published, as it will contain vital information on group sizes and timesheet intervals."

"The governing bodies will also continue to work closely with the Government in the coming weeks and months to seek support for golf clubs that have been severely impacted by the Covid-19 restrictions."

"As today’s announcement only relates to golf clubs in the Republic of Ireland, the governing bodies will continue to work with the U.K. authorities and the Northern Ireland Executive to seek the safe resumption of golf for our clubs in Northern Ireland."

Mark Kennelly, CEO of Golf Ireland, said:

“The golf community in Ireland welcomes the Taoiseach’s confirmation that our clubs can reopen on a restricted basis in the first phase of the Government’s plan to ease the Covid-19 restrictions. This means that golf will be one of the first sports to resume and will give golf club members the opportunity to return to play on a limited but safe basis.

“Golf offers the potential to play a significant role in the recovery from this crisis in public health terms. Our sport provides a valuable outlet for healthy outdoor activity which can be enjoyed with the appropriate safety measures in place”.

To read the joint statement issued by the national governing bodies for golf in Ireland click on the link below:
https://www.golfnet.ie/news/golf-welcomes-government-announcement

THE R&A SETS OUT PLANS FOR A SAFE RETURN

The R&A has set out its plans for a safe return to golf, once the COVID-19 lockdown measures are relaxed.

Over the last few weeks, The R&A has been working with a range of bodies to develop guidance on how golf could be played in the UK when the government decides it is safe to begin lifting the current restrictions.

On Wednesday, The R&A published a statement that sets out its guidelines on the measures that will be required when the game returns under Cover-19 restrictions.

The guidelines for playing golf cover five main areas:
a. Course set-up
b. Before the Round
c. During the Round
d. After the Round
e. Rules of Golf-related Matters.

Industry guidelines for golf facilities have also been published.

The R&A said:

"These procedures will include all aspects of the golfing experience, from arrival in the car park shortly before the round to departure straight away on completion of the round. Golfers will be required to comply with the rules on social distancing throughout. Some temporary provisions in relation to the Rules of Golf will also be necessary to ensure safe play."

To read the full statement from The R&A click on the link below:
xxxhttps://www.randa.org/golf-in-the-uk-under-covid-19-restrictions

The guidelines formed part of a submission made this week by the R&A to the U.K. government on behalf of key golf industry stakeholders to show that golf can resume safely, provided social distancing measures are followed. The response, so far, has been positive.

Craig Tracey, The Chairman of the UK Parliament’s All-Party Group for Golf, said:

“I have been hugely impressed by the response of the different leading golf stakeholders in coming together and working to secure a coherent response to COVID-19. Members of Parliament know how valuable golf is to the UK as it has a huge economic impact, employs large numbers across the UK and has significant positive influence on people’s health.

“The initial challenges with lockdown meant golf had to close in Britain, but the nature of the game means it can, and should, return quickly provided there are steps taken by all involved to maintain social distancing and to meet any other government instruction.”

While there is yet no official date for when golf may resume in the UK, the plans prepared by The R&A and its key industry partners will help to ensure that the industry is ready when it does.

THE R&A UPDATES ITS AMATEUR EVENTS SCHEDULE

The R&A has updated its 2020 amateur championship schedule to include revised dates for the Women's and Men's Amateur championships.

Yesterday, The R&A announced that it still intends to play the majority of its amateur championships this year. Although, it was careful to stress that:

"These plans are dependent on the situation with the COVID-19 pandemic and we will continue to follow the guidance from the UK Government, health authorities and our own medical consultants."

First on the updated schedule are The R&A Girls, Boys and Women’s Senior Amateur Championships, all of which remain in their original slots at the start of August.

The Woman's Amateur and Men's Amateur Championships, which were postponed shortly after the government's lockdown, are rescheduled to the same week at the end of August. Whilst, The R&A Senior Amateur Championship moves to September.

With the exception of the Curtis Cup, which has already been postponed until 2021, all of this year's international matches have been cancelled. The R&A Junior Open has also been cancelled.

The revised schedule for The R&A Amateur Championships is as follows:

11-15 August 
The R&A Girls’Amateur Championships
Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club

11-16 August
The R&A Boys’ Amateur Championship
Moortown and Alwoodley Golf Clubs

19-21 August
The R&A Women’s Senior Amateur Championship
Ashridge Golf Club

25-29 August
The Woman's Amateur Championship
Kilmarnock (Barassie) Golf Club

25-30 August
The Amateur Championship
Royal Birkdale and West Lancashire Golf Clubs

23-25 September 
The R&A Senior Amateur Championship
Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club

THE LPGA TOUR TARGETS A RETURN IN MID-JULY

The AIG Women's British Open and AIS Ladies' Scottish Open both remain on schedule as the LPGA announces its plan to restart its 2020 season.

The LPGA announced this week that it is now targeting a return to action in mid-July as its season continues to be disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. The original schedule featured 34 events. At present, there will be 25 events with three out of the five women's majors rescheduled.

The 1st major in the LPGA's revised schedule is the Evian Championship at the Evian Resort Golf Club in France from 6-9 August. It retains its original dates, however, with French Government banning all sporting events until September 1, the event already looks in danger.

The AIG Women's British Open at the Royal Troon Golf Club in Scotland from 20-23 August, now the 2nd major on the revised schedule, also retains its original slot. As does the AIS Ladies' Scottish Open at The Renaissance Club in Scotland from 13-16 August, which is the only other UK tournament on the LPGA Tour.

The other three majors, the ANA Inspiration, the U.S. Women’s Open, and the KPMG Women's PGA Championship, which are normally held in April, June and July, have all been postponed to later in the year.

The LPGA did not clarify if any spectators would be allowed at its resumed tournaments, something that is likely to depend on local health and safety initiatives. On the men’s side, The PGA is targeting a return to action in mid June, but initially without fans.

The LPGA schedule for the Women's Majors is now as follows:

6-9 August
The Evian Championship
Evian Resort Golf Club, Evian-les-Bains, France

20-23 August
AIG Women's British Open
Royal Troon Golf Club, Troon, Scotland

10-13 September 
ANA Inspiration
Mission Hills Golf Club, Rancho Mirage, California

8-11 October
KPMG Women's PGA Championship
Aronimink Golf Club, Newtown Square, Pennsylvania

10-13 December
U.S. Women’s Open
Champions Golf Club, Houston, Texas

THE NORTH OF SCOTLAND IS CANCELLED

The North of Scotland Ladies' County Championship has been postponed until 2021 due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.

The North of Scotland Championship is open to all County members from Aberdeenshire, Angus, Northern Counties and Perth & Kinross. This year it was due to be played from 28-30 July 2020, at Blairgowrie Golf Club (Rosemount).

Last week, with no end to the lockdown in sight and with the safety of all involved an absolute priority, the decision was taken to cancel the event.

Perth & Kinross will remain responsible for running the championship. Discussions are in progress with Blairgowrie Golf Club about hosting the event in July next year.

The North Division Inter-County Jamboree has also been postponed until 2021.

STATEMENT FROM THE P&K LADIES' COUNTY CAPTAIN

Today, P&K Ladies' County Captain, Jillian Milne, emailed out a letter to all P&K Ladies' County members. A copy is posted below, click to enlarge.

THE NORTH DIVISION JAMBOREE IS CANCELLED

The North Division County Jamboree has been postponed until 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The North Division Jamboree winners 2019

Aberdeenshire, Angus, Northern Counties and Perth & Kinross, were due to battle it out at Monifeith Golf Links from 13 to 15 June 2020. The aim, as normal, would have been to win the North Division Jamboree and secure a place at the Scottish County Finals. But, then these are not normal times.

This week, with no end to the lockdown in sight, the North Division Captains made the inevitable decision to cancel their Jamboree. Both the South and West Divisions have already done so. And, unless there is better news soon, the East Division is almost certain to follow.

The Perth & Kinross Ladies' County Team, who won the North Division Jamboree at Ballater last year, will now have to wait until next year to defend their title.

THE SOLHEIM CUP WILL NOT BE MOVED

The 2021 Solheim Cup will not be moved even if 2020 Ryder Cup is postponed this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 17th Solheim Cup is scheduled to be played from Tuesday 31 August to Monday 6 September 2021 at the Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio.

There has been speculation that the 2020 Ryder Cup, due to be played from 25 to 27 September, could be pushed back to September 2021, if fans are not allowed to attend this year because of coronavirus restrictions.

LPGA commissioner, Mike Whan is, however, adamant that the 2021 Solheim Cup will not be moved.

"Nothing drowns out a Solheim Cup. We wouldn’t change our Solheim Cup if the Ryder Cup changed theirs"

"There are a lot of big events in men's golf that make us kind of side step, whether it's the Masters or the Players Championship, that has so many hours of TV, we try to not play during some of those weeks."

"But the Solheim Cup will be just fine no matter when it's played or where it's played. I've said many times it's the greatest spectacle showcase in women's golf and we'll be just fine in 2021."

Catriona Matthew, who led Europe to a sensational win by 14½ to 13½ at Gleneagles last year, has been reappointed as the European Solheim Cup Captain for 2021.

KARIN SHARP HANDED LEADERSHIP OF SCOTTISH GOLF

Scottish Golf has asked Karin Sharp, their current Chief Operating Officer, to lead the organisation with immediate effect.

Following on from yesterday's shock announcement about the departure of Scottish Golf CEO, Andrew McKinlay, Scottish Golf issued out a further statement this morning.

Eleanor Cannon, Chair of Scottish Golf said:

“The Board and Executive Team have had to make very tough decisions in order to focus on ensuring we are in a sustainable position going forward when courses reopen. With many clubs feeling the financial strain, which in turn has had a knock-on effect on our income, we have prioritised expenditure accordingly. Now more than ever we need strong leadership backed up by robust actionable plans. I am very pleased to announce that The Board has invited Karin Sharp to lead the organisation with immediate effect, from her current role as Chief Operating Officer. 

Karin has outstanding operational pedigree gained through various leadership roles within RBS where her career spanned 23 years, predominately in their Corporate & Commercial Banking Division. She joined Scottish Ladies Golfing Association in November 2013 as Chief Operating Officer and, following the amalgamation in 2015, has ultimately continued in the same role for Scottish Golf."

"Karin will continue to be supported by Iain Forsyth the Scottish Golf Chief Commercial Officer. Iain has more than 30 years’ commercial leadership experience working in the golf industry. Both Karin and Iain have voluntarily decided to take a 20% pay cut for the foreseeable future."

"Scottish Golf continues to be in active dialogue with Scottish Government, sportscotland and the R&A on the up to date guidance and advice relative to the current health and economic crisis."

Eleanor Cannon stated that Scottish Golf has had to make "some very tough decisions" to remain sustainable amid the coronavirus crisis. In addition to yesterday's shock departure of CEO, Andrew McKinlay, it has reduced "a significant number" of their staff through the government furlough scheme. Earlier this month it announced that all it's remaining events and performance programmes for the 2020 had been cancelled. Something the other three home nations have so far avoided.

As part of an effort to support its 575 member clubs, Scottish Golf has also issued out a "financial health check survey" to gather information about the impact of Covid-19 on Scottish Clubs.

Karin Sharp said:

"This detail will directly contribute to, and significantly inform, our ongoing dialogue with Scottish Government in relation to the struggles faced by golf in Scotland. This information is crucial. To enable us to represent the situation accurately and effectively, I urge all clubs to complete the survey at the earliest opportunity."

SCOTTISH GOLF CEO ANDREW McKINLAY RESIGNS

Scottish Golf announced tonight that Andrew McKinlay has taken the decision to "step aside" from his role as Chief Executive Officer.

Andrew McKinlay, who had previously worked for the Scottish Football Association, has been in the role for just over two years.

His shock departure comes as Scottish Golf's member clubs are desperately looking to their governing body for some leadership and support during the coronavirus crisis.

The full statement from Scottish Golf reads as follows:

"We are living in unprecedented times and, as we are all very well aware, sport has no immunity to the impact of COVID-19. Scottish Golf, like all businesses and indeed golf clubs across the country, is having to assess its business model. The governing body has had to make some very difficult decisions regarding income and expenditure, to ensure sustainability in the current circumstances. 

"To this end, our Chief Executive, Andrew McKinlay, has decided that he should step aside in order to help the organisation come through this situation. He leaves having worked with the team on a revised structure that will be fit for purpose when we emerge from the national lockdown."

"Eleanor Cannon, Scottish Golf Chair: On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Andrew for his contribution to Scottish Golf over the past two years. He brought a wealth of experience to what can be a pressurised role."

"He has helped take the organisation forward and has now taken a very difficult decision at this challenging time. I thank him for doing so and wish him the very best for the future.”

"Andrew McKinlay: It has been a privilege to lead this fantastic organisation and, I am grateful to Eleanor and the board for the opportunity. Above all I am indebted to the team at Scottish Golf for their commitment in implementing the objectives to take the game forward towards a sustainable and, indeed, prosperous future.”

"Eleanor Cannon, Chair, Scottish Golf"

BBC GOLF BROADCASTER ANDREW COTTER GOES VIRAL

Bereft of any sport to cover during the current pandemic, Scottish freelance sports broadcaster Andrew Cotter turned to his two dogs, Olive and Mable for inspiration. The result is a brilliant piece of canine commentary.

The Dog's Breakfast Grand Final
The tag line on the twitter video - "I was bored"

Game of Bones
11 days later - "Some sports are slower. More about strategy."

Originally from Troon on the west coast of Scotland, Andrew Cotter is a freelance sports broadcaster. He mainly works for the BBC and is one of their leading commentators on Golf, Rugby, Tennis and Athletics. BBC Radio 5 sports fans will be familiar with his west coast lilt and gentle wit.

He was driving down to Cardiff to cover the Wales v Scotland Six Nations match when the Welsh Rugby Union called the game off due to fears about the developing Coronavirus situation. Within an hour of turning his car around The Masters had also disappeared from his work calendar. Other events quickly followed including the The Boat Race, the Olympics, Wimbledon and The Open.

On the weekend he should have been commentating on The 2020 Boat Race, he tweeted out the first of his hilarious videos about his dogs Olive and Mable. A second video followed on what should have been the first day at The 2020 Masters. The videos went viral.

Determined to keep busy during the lockdown, he has also started up a new podcast called The Pepper Pod with European Tour pro Eddie Pepperell. "A golf podcast born out of the strange time we live in." It's worth a listen.

In these uncertain times, a little bit of Scottish humour and broadcasting skill goes a long way.

THE SENIOR OPEN IS POSTPONED

The R&A has postponed The 2020 Senior Open due to the continuing threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Senior Open, which is Europe’s only Senior Major Championship, was scheduled to take place from 23 to 26 July 2020, at Sunningdale Golf Club.

In a statement issued by the R&A last Tuesday, Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, the Executive Director of Championships said:

“We have made the decision to postpone The Senior Open Presented by Rolex following discussions with all stakeholders and with public health and wellbeing the absolute priority. We will continue to investigate alternative options to host The Senior Open later in the year if at all possible and will make an announcement in due course.”

With The Open already cancelled, the AIG British Women's Open, at Royal Troon from 21 to 23 August, is the only professional championship left on The R&A's original schedule for 2020.

To read the full statement from The R&A click on the link below:
https://www.randa.org/senior-open-postponed

THE SCOTTISH OPEN IS POSTPONED

The European Tour has decided to postpone The Scottish Open due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.

The Aberdeen Standard Investments Scottish Open, which is one of eight Rolex Series events in 2020, was scheduled to return to The Renaissance Club at North Berwick, from 9-12 July.

Earlier today, European Tour Chief Executive, Keith Pelley, released an "Update on European Tour events".  The statement confirmed as follows:

1. In consultation with Aberdeen Standard Investments, VisitScotland and Rolex, the European Tour has postponed the Scottish Open. Discussions about the possibility of rescheduling the event are ongoing.

2. The BMW International Open and the Open de France have both been cancelled.

The Aberdeen Standard Investments Scottish Woman's Open, due to be played at The Renaissance Club at North Berwick from 13-16 August 2020, remains unaffected for now.

To read the full statement from the European Tour, click on the link below:
https://www.europeantour.com/update-on-european-tour-events

MISSING THE MASTERS THIS WEEKEND?

It's the second weekend in April, and we should all be settling into our sofas to watch The 84th Masters at Augusta - The first men's major of the year.

Instead, the COVID-19 pandemic has delayed The 2020 Masters at until November 12-15.  Frustrating I know, but thankfully the BBC and YouTube have got some Masters golf to view. Check out the following options:

"Tiger Woods Roars Again" on BBC 2 this Sunday at 17:00 BST
Presented by Eilidh Barbour, the hour-long programme briefly charts Woods' rise to greatness, the fall that followed, the final surgery on his back and his return to glory with last year's sensational Augusta victory.

"Final-round Broadcasts at the Masters"on YouTube, 1968 to 2018
Not a Tiger fan or want to see a bit more?  No problem, all the final-round broadcasts from 1968-2018 have been gathered together in a single YouTube playlist, just click on the link below:
https://Final Rounds broadcasts at the Masters - YouTube

My choice?
That's easy. I'll be settling down to watch The 1986 Masters, one of the most exciting final rounds in Masters' history. Forty-six year old Jack Nicklaus chasing Tom Kite, Greg Norman and Seve Ballesteros. He couldn't could he...

SCOTTISH GOLF CANCELS ALL THEIR CHAMPIONSHIPS

Scottish Golf have cancelled all their events and performance programmes for 2020. They have also put the majority of their staff on furlough.

This afternoon, the chair of Scottish Golf, Eleanor Cannon, emailed a statement to all member Golf Clubs, Areas and Counties in Scotland.

To read the full statement from Scottish Golf click on the link below:
https://scottishgolf.org/statement

England Golf have also furloughed the majority of their staff, but have, as yet, only cancelled their fixtures up-to the end of July.

THE MASTERS IS PUSHED BACK TO NOVEMBER

The 84th Masters is back on the calendar for 2020.

Due to be held this week, The 2020 Masters at the Augusta National Golf Club, in Georgia, was postponed last month due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Today, the chairman of Augusta National Golf Club released a statement that the championship would be rescheduled to 9-15 November 2020.

Augusta National Women’s Amateur
Sadly, the decision was made to cancel this year's Augusta National Women's Amateur. The event was due to be held at Augusta National the week before The Masters. All who qualified for the event will be invited in 2021, provided they remain amateurs.

To read the full statement from the chairman of the Augusta National Golf Club, click on the link below:
https://www.masters.com/2020Masters

US PGA CHAMPIONSHIP IS RESCHEDULED TO AUGUST

The 2020 PGA Championship at TPC Harding Park, San Fransisco, has been rescheduled to 3-9 August 2020.

Due to be played in May, the PGA Championship was postponed in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Ryder Cup
The Ryder Cup is still scheduled to be played from 22 to 27 September at Whistling Straits in Kohler, Wisconsin.

To read the full statement from the PGA of America, click on the link below:
https://pga.org/2020-pga-championship

THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP IS CANCELLED

The R&A has decided to cancel The Open Championship in 2020 due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.

The 149th Open will now be played at Royal St George’s from 11-18 July 2021 and The 150th Open at St Andrews from 10-17 July 2022.

The R&A's remaining professional and amateur championships for this year, including the AIG British Women's Open at Royal Troon in August, are all under review. Updates will be given of any further changes.

To read the full statement from The R&A click on the link below:
https://www.randa.org/The-Open-in-2020-cancelled

US OPEN IS RESCHEDULED TO SEPTEMBER

The 120th US Open Championship at Winged Foot Golf Club, New York, has been rescheduled to 17-20 September 2020.

The US Senior Open & US Senior Women’s Open Championships
In addition to the postponement of the US Open, the USGA has made the decision to cancel both the US Senior Open and the US Senior Women’s Open Championships for 2020.
 
To read the full statement from the USGA click on the link below:
https://www.usga.org/2020-US-Open-Championship

US WOMEN'S OPEN IS RESCHEDULED

The 75th US Women’s Open Championship at the Champions Golf Club in Houston, Texas has been postponed to 10-13 December 2020.

To read the full statement from the USGA click on the link below:
https://www.usga.org/2020-US-Womens-Open-Championship

CURTIS CUP & WOMEN'S AMATEUR ARE RESCHEDULED

The R&A have announced that, due to COVID-19, they have postponed this year's Curtis Cup and Women’s Amateur Championship.

Both the Women’s Amateur Championship at Kilmarnock (Barassie) and the Amateur Championship at Royal Birkdale and West Lancashire are being rescheduled to the week commencing 24 August 2020.

In agreement with the USGA, the Curtis Cup is postponed until next year.

To read the full statement from The R&A click on the link below.
https://www.randa.org-amateur-championships-update

JOAN LAWRENCE MBE (1930-2020)

Joan Lawrence MBE, "a legend of Scottish Woman's Golf", passed away in hospital last Thursday night, after suffering a stroke. She was 89.

Joan at the SGLA Centenary Lunch in 2009

Please note that due to COVID-19, the funeral will be held in private.

Joan Barrie Lawrence, MBE (1930-2020)

Joan was born in Cupar in 1930. Her father was a greenskeeper at Cupar Golf Club and lived on the edge of the course. At the age of 9 she took up the game of golf. It was a beginning of an incredible amateur golf career. 

A fierce competitor with a deadly short game, she played at the highest level of the amateur game. She won the Scottish Ladies' Amateur Championship three times from 1962 to 1964, only just missing out on a fourth title when she lost in the final to Belle Robertson in 1965.

She represented Scotland at the Home Internationals twelve times from 1959 to 1970, at the European Team Championship in 1964 and at the World Team Championships three times from 1965 to 1969.

As well as playing for Scotland, she represented GB&I at the Curtis Cup in 1964 and at the Vagliano Trophy twice from 1963 to 1965, helping her team to win the Trophy in 1963. 

She was also Vice-captain at the Curtis Cup in 1970 and Captain of the GB team that won Commonwealth (now Astor) Trophy in 1971.

Joan's talents were not limited to her activities on the course. She was a highly respected organiser, administrator and selector. Her wealth of experience and knowledge was invaluable for the numerous golf committees and boards on which she served and chaired.

She was a British Selector for eight years and the Chairman of Selectors from 1986-1988, during which time GB&I won the Curtis Cup twice.

She was Chairman of the Ladies' Golf Union from 1989 to 1990, President of the Scottish Veteran Ladies' Golfing Society from 1994 to 1995 and President of the Scottish Ladies' Golfing Association from 1995 to 1996. 

In 1999, Joan was awarded a MBE, "For services to Ladies' Amateur Golf", in the Queen's Birthday Honour's List.

She was a great character and a great golfer. She will be missed by many.

Her golfing achievements include:

Rep. Scotland at the Girls' Home Internationals 1949

Rep. Scotland at the Ladies' Home Internationals from 1959 to 1970

Scottish Ladies' Champion 1962, 1963 & 1964, Runner-up 1965
Member of the Vagliano Trophy team 1963 & 1965, GB&I won it in 1963
Member of the Curtis Cup team 1964
Rep. Scotland at the World Team Championship 1964
Rep. Scotland at the European Team Championship 1965 (2nd), 1967 & 1969
Vice-Captain of the Curtis Cup team 1970
Captain of the winning GB team at the Commonwealth (Astor) Trophy 1971
East of Scotland Champion 1971 & 1972
Scottish Veteran Ladies' Champion 1982, 1983 & 1984
Fife County Ladies' Champion 18 times, starting in 1953
Regular member of the Fife County Ladies' team for over 30 years
Aberdour Club Champion 12 times
Dunfermline (Canmore) Club Champion

Her other non-golfing roles include:
International Selector 1973-1976 and 1980-1983
Chairman of Selectors 1986-1988, GB&I won the Curtis Cup twice

Chairman of the Ladies' Golf Union 1989-1990

President of the Scottish Veteran Ladies' Golfing Society 1994-1995

President of the Scottish Ladies' Golfing Association 1995-1996

Captain of Aberdour Golf Club 1997-1998, 1st woman Club Captain

Captain of Fife County Ladies' Golf Association

Awards:
MBE "For services to Ladies' Amateur Golf", 1999

COLIN FARQUHARSON HAS DECIDED TO RETIRE

Colin Farquharson, the editor of the Scottish View Golf website, has decided to call it a day. He will no longer be posting on the blog.

Based in Aberdeen, Colin’s career in journalism began in 1953 as a copy boy for the Press & Journal. After he retired as Sports Editor for the newspaper in 1997, he continued to promote the game of golf as a freelance golf writer and photographer.

The Scottish Golf View website launched in May 2006. At that time there were no smart phones or tablets and social media was still in it's infancy. With Colin's enthusiasm for posting news about all Scottish golf and Scottish golfers, whether home or abroad, it quickly gathered a loyal fan base. At it's peak in 2015, it had over 175,000 hits in a single month.

Over the years, Colin's efforts to promote the great game of golf did not go unnoticed by his peers. In 2018, the Association of Golf Writers awarded him an honorary lifetime membership.

Colin has always been a great supporter of Scottish women's amateur golf. His coverage of the progress and success of all our junior, woman and senior golfers will be missed.

We wish Colin a very happy retirement.

SCOTTISH GOLF UPDATE - NO GOLF, PLEASE STAY AT HOME

Scottish Golf has asked all golfers in Scotland to refrain from golf until further notice.  To read their full statement click on the link below:
https://scottishgolf.org/covid-19-update-monday-23-march-2020/

The message from the Government and Scottish Golf is clear.

For now, golf is NOT an option. Instead, we must all stay at home and play our part in containing the spread of COVID-19.

We'll keep you posted on any further updates from Scottish Golf. In the meantime stay safe, follow all the Government guidelines and look after yourselves.

P&K MATCHES v STIRLING, FIFE & P&K MEN - CANCELLED

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, all our annual friendly County matches in March and April have been cancelled. The matches affected are:

March 2020
Sunday 22 - P&K v Stirling & Clackmannan County at Crieff - Cancelled

April 2020
Sun. 12 April - P&K v Fife County at Dunnikier - Cancelled
Sat. 18 April - P&K v P&K County Men at Kinross - Cancelled

Whether any of these fixtures can be re-scheduled to a date later in the season is unclear.

ANNUAL MAILING

The County Fixture Books are in production and will be issued out to the clubs shortly, but in an effort to get things moving we’ve already sent out a County email to our members with an advance copy of the following:

1. Captain’s Newsletter
2. Fixture List
3. Membership Renewal Form

If for any reason you've not received the email, please contact the Secretary!

Renewal Form
Please return your completed form along with your annual subscription to our Treasurer, Catherine Monks. All the details you need are on the form.

Fixture List
There are some cracking venues for our events this year including the North of Scotland, which we are hosting on our home turf at Blairgowrie. Make sure you get all the dates in your diary.

Finally
More information about our competitions will follow, including options to enter online, so keep an eye on your inbox and the website.

P&K COUNTY GOLF - HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2019

What a great year for Perth & Kinross County Golf. Lots to shout about, with some amazing performances from our Juniors and Seniors at County, National and International level. 

For a selection of this year's highlights click on the slideshow below.

Have a wonderful festive season and a very happy New Year when it comes.

GIRLS' GOLF HUBS - REGISTRATION IS OPEN

Scottish Golf has launched 60 new Girls' Golf Hubs across Scotland.

Building on the success of this year's Solheim Cup at Gleneagles, the aim of the new Hubs is to introduce girls to golf in a friendly and fun environment.

There are six Hubs in Perth & Kinross. They are located at:

- Blairgowrie Golf Club
- Crieff Golf Club
- Dunning Golf Club
- Murrayshall Golf Club
- Milnathort Golf Club
- Strathmore Golf Club

To find out more, and how to register your interest, click on the link below:
Scottish Golf: Girls' Golf Hubs

P&K COUNTY SENIOR SQUAD - WINTER COACHING

The first Session of Winter Coaching for 2019/20 took place yesterday at Strathmore Golf Club. Nine of our Senior Squad attended. The weather was cold, but sunny and dry.

The Squad worked on their skills on the short course under the guidance of our coach Karyn Dallas. The focus was on winter practise and short game.

THE SOLHEIM CUP - MATTHEW GOES FOR THE DOUBLE

Congratulations to Catriona Matthew who has been reappointed as the European Solheim Cup Captain for 2021.

Gleneagles 2019

Catriona Matthew, who led Europe to a sensational win by 14½ to 13½ at Gleneagles this year, has been handed the chance to complete the double on USA soil in two years time.

Her appointment was announced at Gleneagles today. You can read the full Ladies European Tour Press release here

Matthew said "I'm thrilled and honoured to Captain Team Europe again..." "Winning the Solheim Cup in Scotland was a dream come true, but backing that up with a win in America would be even better." You can read more about her own personal reaction to the appointment here

The 17th Solheim Cup is to be played from Tuesday 31 August to Monday 6 September 2021 at the Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio.

P&K COUNTY SENIOR SQUAD - ANNOUNCED

Our Match Secretary, Caroline Henderson, has confirmed the P&K Ladies' County Senior Squad for 2019/20.  The full squad is listed below.

GOLFSIXES LEAGUE - REGISTRATION

Registration for next year's GolfSixes leagues is now open!

How does it work? Scottish Golf confirmed as follows:

"Run in partnership with the Golf Foundation, the leagues provide junior beginner golfers who have no handicap or 37 and above the opportunity to represent their club in team-based playing opportunity that is fast and fun." 

"This is an inter-club competition where local clubs work collaboratively to provide a positive playing experience through simple points scoring that will retain the children’s interest in the sport." 

"Teams take part in a standardised format which can be easily organised and administered by the PGA Professional or Club Volunteer."

To find out more, and how your club can get involved, click on the link below:
☛ Scottish GolfSixes Leagues 2020

The closing date is 6th December 2019.

EAST LOTHIAN GIRLS WIN KINGSBARNS GIRLS CLASSIC

Congratulations to East Lothian County Girls, Abercrombie Nisbet and Lucy Hall, who along with Scottish Professional Gabrielle Macdonald won the 2019 Kingsbarns Girls Classic last Saturday.

Every County in Scotland was invited to send two girls to play in the event. After a quick warm up on the driving range and putting green, each of the County pairs was joined by a Scottish Professional or Internationalist to play in a Texas Scramble over the Kingsbarns Golf links. There was lunch for all the competitors in the clubhouse afterwards.

28 girls travelled from all over Scotland to play at Kingsbarns

The Perth & Kinross County Girls' duo of Katy Alexander (Blairgowrie) and Kirsten Miller (Strathmore) were partnered by Jasmine Mackintosh (Hazelhead) and came third. Well done girls!

KINGSBARNS GIRLS CLASSIC

Good luck to Katy Alexander (Blairgowrie) & Kirsten Miller (Strathmore) who are playing in the Kingsbarns Girls Classic today.

The Scottish Junior Girls event was set up in 2018 as a legacy of the 2017 British Women's Open, which was held at Kingsbarns Golf Links.

Each County in Scotland was invited by Scottish Golf to select two girls to take part. This year the girls will be joined by a Scottish female PGA Professional, Ladies European Tour Player or Scottish Internationalist to play as a team in a Texas Scramble format.