By Peter Gleason
As most Philadelphians and Pennsylvania are abiding by the social-distancing orders, golfers are getting cabin fever.
Groups that represent the state’s nearly 700 courses, pros, managers and superintendents, have asked Gov. Tom Wolf to reconsider his order closing all businesses that aren’t life-sustaining.
Until that action last Thursday, many private and public clubs in the Philly area remained open to golfers during the coronavirus outbreak, though almost all had shuttered or significantly altered their pro shop, restaurant, snack bar, and instructional operations.
“We believe the field of play, which typically represents over 200 acres of open space land, should be treated differently,” a letter sent Wolf said. “… Socially distant recreation on a golf course is much like taking a walk through one of our wonderful state parks. Course owners all over the country have been taking extra precautions to ensure playing golf is a safe experience that complies with all health advisories and recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control.”
