While much of normal everyday life is being altered during the COVID-19 pandemic, the one thing that everybody should still be able to enjoy is the game of golf. Kentucky's government has confirmed golf courses are excluded from the public-facing closures Governor Beshear announced on Tuesday, so golfers may continue to swing away. Below are a list of best practices courtesy of Kentucky PGA Members and Associates that outline how golfers can best enjoy the sport while being safe and courteous to others enjoying the environment. 

• If a ball strikes a raised cup liner or comes to rest within a grip-length of the hole, deem it holed
• Keep flagsticks in the hole to avoid possibly spreading germs on them
• Purchase gift cards or packages during these times so that facilities can stay afloat
• If playing in a team environment like PGA Jr. League, only practice and be sure to abide by social distancing
• One rider per golf car, or only ride with people you live with
• Think about walking rather than taking a golf cart
• Utilize video or Google Hangouts for lessons
• Keep tabs of information but turn off news from time to time to decompress
• PLAY GOLF WITH YOUR FAMILY! It's one of the best ways to spend time together right now.

Helpful Links:

Rules and Handicap Guidance from the USGA
Why Health Experts Say Golf is One of the Safest Sports You Can Play During the Pandemic
Junior Tour Stay at Home Spotlight Series
Kentucky COVID-19 resources
CDC information
Online Trick Shots
Be Golftimistic
Facilitate #SafeGolf
Good Deeds
Warning from Governor Beshear on March 29th