Bad Weather Policy

Lightning

In the event of lightning on the Links, golfers out on the courses are advised to cease playing. They should go to the nearest shelter or building until the lightning has moved away. Then they may return to their places on the course and complete their round. If green fee-paying golfers decide to abandon their round, rather than wait for the lightning to cease, refunds will not apply. Golfers on the first tee will be advised of any lightning that is evident or imminent close to the Links but it is their decision whether or not to play. If they miss their tee-time as a result, reasonable endeavours will be made to reschedule either later that day or the following day depending on availability. In an organised event, the decision to suspend or stop play lies with the tournament organiser. In the case of Links Tournaments, the responsibility lies with Links staff running the tournament.

Fog or Haar

In the event of fog or haar while on the golf courses, the decision to stop or continue play lies with the golfers, as it is recognised that conditions can change from minute to minute. Golfers on the first tee will be advised of the conditions by the starter. If golfers decide not to start, reasonable endeavours will be made to reschedule either later that day or the following day depending on availability. If golfers decide to play but do not complete 18 holes, refunds will not apply. In an organised event, the decision to suspend or stop play lies with the tournament organiser. In the case of Links Tournaments, the responsibility lies with Links staff running the tournament.

Heavy Rain

When heavy rain is expected, the holes are moved to high ground where possible. If it is still impossible to putt out then the course will be temporarily closed and play suspended. Golfers on the course should take shelter. When it is possible to restart, golfers should resume their game at their places on the course. If golfers decide to abandon their game, rather than wait for the rain to cease, refunds will not apply.

Golfers on the first tee will be advised that the course is temporarily closed and reasonable endeavours will be made to re-schedule, but they may lose their starting time. If visiting golfer’s times cannot be re-scheduled, they will be offered a refund.

In an organised event, the decision to suspend or stop play lies with the tournament organiser.

Frost

With increased play during the winter season and increased traffic on the greens, there is significantly more damage to the greens when there is frost on the ground.  This damage makes the grass plant more susceptible to disease and with this in mind, the recommendation is:

On experiencing a white frost (rime) – Pins to be put on winter greens prior to play and to remain so for the rest of the day.

On experiencing a hard frost: Pins are put on the winter greens until the day after the frost has fully thawed from the soil

Decisions on the above will be at the discretion of the Senior Greenkeeper for each of the three courses.