Now is the time for golfers to rally together and do all they can for the sport and local clubs in this current time of crisis. Help our beloved clubs survive.

Given the lockdown put into place at the start of this week, we now recognise that for the foreseeable future our lives have changed and will continue do so. 6 months down the line is currently hard predict but, given the current global pandemic and the uncertainty that comes with it, we are a long way to going back to the “normality” we lived in until just a few weeks ago.

At the start of March, there was a buzz of excitement, from those looking forward to the start of the new golf season, to those eagerly waiting for The Masters to start. Not to forget welcoming Spring and seeing course conditions beginning to improve! Now however, we are facing a complete golf break, with none being shown on TV and courses closing across the world.

The question many golfers are asking is, “can golf clubs as we know them in the UK survive this lockdown?”

The answer is yes, but it requires each golfer to play their part. Meaning, if you are in a financial position to do so, you should really consider paying your impending annual subscription. Even knowing that you won’t be able to use the club and facilities in these upcoming 3 weeks, that is 3 weeks out of 52 weeks. Though it does mean you can lend your hand to your clubs’ survival.

We’re aware of number of conversations happening up and down the UK, suggesting people are currently reluctant to pay or will expect refunds from their club due to the crisis. But, if those clubs are already cash-strapped were to either receive less than expected or even reimburse subs, then this could run the risk of closure of the club indefinitely.

It is understandable that everyone’s priorities have changed because of the current pandemic, and there will be those who find themselves in a tough financial position, where difficult decisions will need to be made. In these instances, even though it might be their passion, golf may have to take a back seat for a few weeks.

For those that truly love the sport, love getting out there to play and are in a position where they can afford a financial hit in the way golf membership, we urge that they do so. You will help golf survive. If we don’t do this, a sport that has been played for over 500 years will run the risk of becoming marginalised and a sport only for the elite.

Of course, there are also many out there who have been affected financially during this period but also who want to remain members of their club. Those who still want to make a contribution where and when possible to support their local club. For these people, clubs may have to look at their options and what is available. For many a membership category like a flexible golf membership will help. Offer members the flexibility they need in order to still get out there, when they can, and play the sport they love. A membership built for them and also will keep supporting local golf clubs during this time of need, giving them much revenue needed to survive these uncertain times.

We are fortunate in the UK to have a wide variety of clubs, those that are elite to those that are smaller clubs, but both act as hubs in local communities. Golf is a sport that is inclusive, allowing people from many different walks of life to experience the sport, to mix across the social demographic, enjoying healthy fresh air and exercise together.

For golf to remain a sport for all, these clubs need support from their members, existing and new, to make it through the current pandemic and out the other side. We urge those that can, to do their bit for club golf in this country – show their support it and help it survive.

Please, if you can, pay your subs in full this year, or sustain your monthly payments. Golf memberships must be looked at as an investment to the future of the game.

Clubs want to retain members and members want to preserve their clubs – like everything in this challenging time, we have to work together to help the sport you and many love survive.

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