Around New England

Golf Is Back In Massachusetts

May 7, 2020

Golf is once allowed in Massachusetts once again.

Massachusetts on Thursday, May 7 became one of the last states to reopen its golf courses amid the coronavirus emergency. 

Strict measures will be in place. 

Golfers must be at least six feet away from each other at all times. They must wear masks. Caddies and golf carts are not allowed. The maximum group size playing together is four golfers. Players have to wait in their cars until 15 minutes before tee time. Locker rooms, pro shops, and restaurants at golf courses must remain closed.

The decision came amid pressure on the governor to reopen. 

Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance spokesman Paul Craney criticized Baker for keeping courses closed in a statement on Wednesday, May 6, a day before the administration changed course.

“The Governors of Maryland and Vermont were right to announce that golf and other activities in their states can re-open as early as Thursday morning,” Craney said in a written statement Wednesday. “Governor Baker needs to put his faith in the people of Massachusetts to be able to safely enjoy these essential outdoor recreational activities.”

The governor has been talking about gradual, phased reopenings, but this one was abrupt. It was announced via the state’s web site Thursday morning.

The decision came as the owner of Wachusett Country Club and the Kettle Brook Golf Club in central Massachusetts announced they would be opening back up in defiance of the governor’s order.


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