This archive report was first published on 26 June 2020.
On June 24, 2020, the Limuru Country Club resumed golf events, marking a significant milestone in the resumption of outdoor recreational activities in the country.
Following the relaxation of restrictions by the union, golfers and golf clubs have begun to resume competitions, with the Limuru Country Club outlining updated guidelines to comply with government measures on combating the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Fred Ikana, the club captain, the club night on June 24, 2020, marked the beginning of a new era in golfing activities at the club.
Health CS Kagwe Mutahi had earlier ordered the closure of all golf clubs and clubhouses, citing the need to observe social distancing guidelines in open sports facilities.
However, the Kenya Golf Union has recently lifted the ban on handicaps, paving the way for organized competitions and reciprocation.
Clubs are now advised to announce results of any competition using means that do not require golfers to congregate in the clubhouse, and are also free to allow reciprocation or fourballs while maintaining due care.
The use of caddies is still not allowed until the Ministry of Health gives authorization, but ball spotters are allowed on the course to help golfers locate their balls as long as they maintain a safe distance.
The club has also appealed for sponsors in the sporting event, citing the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on corporate companies and the resulting difficulty in securing sponsorships.
The club has retained the fee payable for club nights and competition days at Sh400 and Sh200 for optional ball pool, and members will pay a Sh300 course management fee on Fridays, non-competition Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
