Those hoping to hit the links as the weather warms up may have to wait a little while longer.
Golf courses in Chatham-Kent are among the many businesses having to shutter their services amid the COVID-19 pandemic, just as many of them would be preparing for their peak season. Golf courses were not one of the businesses deemed essential by the provincial government, therefore they were ordered to close their doors by 12:01 a.m. Wednesday.
Talbot Trail Golf Club in Wheatley announced on Tuesday that the order to close means the course will not be opened by its projected date.
"We will continue to prepare for a great season of golf ahead of us but until then, please stay home, stay safe and stay healthy," stated a Facebook post.
https://www.facebook.com/TalbotTrailGC/posts/2917274445001620
Southside Tap and Grille in Chatham also announced back on March 17 that they made the decision to close both the restaurant portion of the establishment as well as the mini putt, golf course and driving range.
Although the popular pastime might be on hold for now, Caress Lee Carpenter with Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit, said there are many other ways that people can enjoy fresh air and get outside while still following recommendations by health officials.
"The purpose of self-isolation is to ensure that we are limiting the potential spread of the virus. If you are going for a walk and abiding by the social distancing recommendations of keeping at least two metres between yourself and others, you aren't increasing the risk to anyone around you," she explained.
Although the health unit is encouraging people to remain active during the pandemic, Carpenter said there are certain activities that people should refrain from doing for the time being.
"People should avoid physical activities that do not allow them to practice physical distancing of at least two metres," said Carpenter. "This could mean a pickup game of basketball or bringing their children to a crowded playground."
Carpenter recommended that people get creative while adapting to a new routine, including utilizing workout space in their homes and using online resources such as workout videos on YouTube.