PITTSBURGH (93.7 the Fan) – Finally. After golf courses in Ohio, West Virginia and New York remained open, Pennsylvania governor Tom Wolf announced on Monday courses will re-open in our state on Friday.
Manor Valley owner Vince DeAugustine says it’s been frustrating during closure, losing thousands of dollars and said they will go above and beyond the guidelines set by the government to keep golfers safe.
"We are going to turn our metal cups upside down so the ball goes in halfway, no touching of the flags, no rakes, no water coolers,” DeAugustine said. “Stuff you've seen in Ohio and West Virginia courses that unfortunately the Pennsylvania people have been frequenting."
The Governor asks that masks be worn, no congregating at holes and only one per cart. That means golfers should prepare to walk, as with an expected crush of play, there will essentially be half of the carts available per course. That likely will affect the spacing of tee times.
Course owners are working on how the money will be exchanged. The best way to pay is on-line, with on-line tee times a good option. They are working on how in-person payments will be handled.
DeAugustine said he had people sign up for memberships and buy gift cards just to help out his business during the closure. And he is deeply appreciative and previews what the Friday morning will be like.
“Whoever is the first out in Western PA is in for a real treat,” DeAugustine said. “You couldn't possibly ask for a course to be in better shape."