The state of Arizona has declared golf as an essential activity, which comes as great news to avid golfers, but also comes with a whirlwind of controversy for those who feel that social distancing should be stricter to keep the COVID-19 as contained as possible.
Following the in the footsteps of a majority of a country, Arizona has issued a stay-in-place order where they said that residents should only leave the house for what is deemed to be an essential activity. Arizona’s precautions have lagged behind many of the other states who enacted stay-in-place orders as early as two weeks ago. Governor Ducey claimed that establishments that would be considered essential are pharmacies, groceries, stores and golf courses.
Although there have been 1,300 confirmed cases of COVID19 and 24 deaths in Arizona, Governor Ducey believes that just because the residents of Arizona are on quarantine they shouldn’t be able to go out and enjoy the beautiful weather.”
Although avid golfers may find some solace in this a lot of people believe that this could actually promote spread of COVID-19. Golf courses could become gathering grounds that would eliminate social distancing and create a danger and major risk.
So our stay at home order started 6 minutes ago in Arizona but yet I can go out and golf tomorrow morning since golf courses are considered an essential business per Gov Douchey 😡 https://t.co/Z4vhB75DBc
— hamhox (@hamhox) April 1, 2020
.@dougducey is this an Order or just a Suggestion. Arizona essential biz needs another look – golf and hair cuts are not essential https://t.co/MsGhifyysz pic.twitter.com/ZC9EC6XTrJ
— akaJimmyBoy (@akaJimmyBoy) April 1, 2020
It is possible that Governor Ducey will end up closing the golf courses, such as California who initially also included golf courses as essential activity before shutting them down.
“We do not want people to feel trapped or isolated in their homes,” he explained during a public address on Monday. “The weather is beautiful right now. Find a way to get out and enjoy it, with physical distancing.”
Since golf has been deemed an essential activity, the three-round Cactus Tour will commence. Beginning today and going through April 2, the Cactus Tour will stop at Sun City Country Club where there will be 19 players, including LPGA Tour player, Haley Moore.
Also Read: Brandon Chamblee apologizes for explosive commentary
