It seems impossible to escape negative news in these crazy times. While I can't change the situation or give you the ultimate good news (yet) that all golf courses in Southern California are open again, I can at least try to point out some positives to come out of the current situation.
1. Appreciate your time on the course more
Sometimes it takes losing something to realize how much you love it. Like I'm sure a lot of you did, when the pandemic hit Southern California and it was apparent that golf courses would be among the businesses affected, I did whatever I could to squeeze in one more round. Even though it took 3 hours to play 9 holes and I played horribly, I still enjoyed the round more than usual since I wasn't sure when I'd get to play again. So if nothing else, maybe when you're able to play golf again (and that time will come), you'll be less concerned about chucking the putter after another 3-putt and just enjoy getting your favorite game back.
2. Work on forgotten parts of your game
For golfers, being stuck at home means a lot of putting in the living room, chipping in the backyard, and probably trying out a few trick shots to show off next time you see your golf friends. What it also means is that without the temptation to just bomb driver at the range, you can finally focus on the "boring" parts of your game and actually improve your game. We can help you get started with some golf drills you can do from home.
3. Courses will be in great shape
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While golf courses may not be open for business, many of them still have maintenance staff hard at work to make sure the course is in top shape when it reopens. And with the combination of no golfers on the course and the current weather, some of your local tracks may be better than ever.
4. Teach your kids how to play
For those with little ones at home, what better time to get them to take up the game? Plus, you could really make your life easier by teaching your kids focus, discipline, or just keeping them occupied for a little bit.
5. Clear out things to do at home so you can play when courses reopen
Catching up on your favorite TV shows, work, house projects, spending time with the family. All (well, mostly all) of these are worthwhile ways to spend your time, they're also things that distract you from playing golf. Use all this extra time to get those done and golf guilt-free later.
I know none of this can replace actually being on the course, but hopefully it can help you get through until that time comes. For more information on how COVID-19 is impacting the golf industry, stay up to date here.
