Bunkered without a rake: The State of Golf with Executive Director Kevin Purcell

For many of us playing golf in twosomes is like playing tennis alone… you’re swinging but it’s not much fun.

We are grateful to be playing again, getting some exercise, and enjoying the great outdoors - but something is missing. The camaraderie of the foursome, the pace of the round and the friendly wager all combine to make our sport unique. It’s true that you never know how much you enjoy something until you can’t have it. Without my usual Nassau wins I have been forced to use my own funds to buy beer. It’s just not right.

The Allied Golf Associations of New Jersey have been working tirelessly to get golf back with all its fanfare. We understand the concerns of restarting the economy and we have communicated how our courses and clubs are up to the task. Two weeks ago, we got the green light to begin the season, twosomes at 16-minute intervals was the call, so we respectfully complied. The golf community of New Jersey has shown that we take the responsibility of playing in a safe and healthy environment seriously, and we are ready to return to foursomes. Earlier this week we sent a letter to Governor Murphy requesting just that.

The leaders of the Superintendents, Managers, Owners, PGA Sections and the NJSGA have pledged that our game will be part of the solution to the pandemic by providing much needed mental and physical health benefits during the gradual re-opening of the State. We acknowledge and appreciate the leadership Governor Murphy has shown during this crisis and applaud the steps toward recovery.

We ask for patience. We’re close. Let’s stick to the protocol of the Executive Order until we get approval to move forward.

A couple more thoughts…

How about a big Huzzah! for the superintendents and the maintenance crews who have labored on when many of us were watching Law & Order reruns. Our golf courses are in great shape thanks to their effort.

And let’s not forget that our PGA Professionals are here to help shake the rust of our swings and if you need a new shirt to impress your FOURSOME, they have plenty to choose from.

Be safe, be healthy, be patient.