Bunker rakes have been removed at the historic Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina . Below : A friendly sign reminds guests to mask up , social distance and wash hands frequently . |
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STAYING VIGILANT While some courses have relaxed restrictions during recent months , Burbee said Bay Creek ’ s initial precautions are still in place and that his resort has “ continued to be very vigilant .”
For example , Bay Creek requires masks in the clubhouse and social distancing is practiced between unassociated groups of players . In addition , golf cars are staged six feet apart and sanitized between each round . Players have an option to ride in a golf car alone or with another player .
Bay Creek ’ s large practice range allows for hitting stations to be spaced 12 feet apart . On the course , bunker rakes have been removed and players are encouraged
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not to touch or remove the flagstick to minimize contact with others .
“ We use a piece of PVC pipe that slips over the flagstick and is placed into the hole ,” said Burbee . “ When your ball rolls into the hole , it will only drop about 1½ inches , so you don ’ t have to reach all the way into the cup to take it out and you don ’ t need to remove the flag .”
Even the bag drop area has changed at Bay Creek . Now , staff members will ask guests if they are comfortable with them taking their bags or if they prefer that a golf car is left for them to move their own bags .
“ I think most people have been appreciative that we take this pandemic seriously while still giving them options about what they would like to do ,” Burbee added .
The luxurious Sea Island resort in Georgia is welcoming golfers .
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PLAN AHEAD Pinehurst Resort ( N . C .), The Sea Pines Resort ( S . C .), Sea Island Resort ( Ga .) and Omni Amelia Island Resort ( Fla .) all cite steps on their websites that each facility has made to comply with the U . S . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) and World Health Organization ( WHO ) recommendations .
Resort employees are monitored , may be tested and required to wear appropriate Personal Protection Equipment ( PPE ) when at work . Guest rooms , as well as high-touch items and high-touch areas are thoroughly cleaned daily with disinfectants . Hand sanitizing stations are located throughout the resorts — in the hotels , at the golf courses and clubhouses , as well as in restaurants and shops .
But golf travelers should be aware that rules vary in different states and cities . For example , bar service is not currently allowed in South Carolina , so 19th-hole gatherings will be different this year .
Pinehurst has limited hours in some dining areas , using online and disposable menus with no cash payments . Locker
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE COURSES |