National Golf Foundation’s New COVID-19 Impact Update

NGF’s fourth national survey shows 49% of U.S. courses are open as golfer opposition to government-mandated closures increases

Jupiter, FL – The National Golf Foundation’s fourth week of nationwide surveys found that approximately 49% of U.S. courses were open for play last week amid the coronavirus pandemic and the number of openings is projected to climb even higher in the coming weeks.

The NGF’s special webpage, www.thengfq.com/covid-19, is dedicated to continuing research on the effects of the coronavirus on golf and features the latest data and information on course operational status, government orders, consumer sentiment, and much more. NGF’s ongoing national tracking of golf facilities provides an in-depth overview of course openings and temporary closures through the most nationally-representative sample in the industry.

The percentage of courses open for play has risen slightly over the past several weeks and will continue to do so as warmer weather creeps further north, Wisconsin allows walking-only play, some facilities re-open to members in New York, and golf operations resume in an increasing number of California counties.

Also new this week to the NGF COVID-19 impact page:

• One seven-state region had the biggest jump in facility openings — to 77% open overall.
• Online searches for open golf courses have spiked again. See how much.
• Find out which facility type (municipal, daily fee or private) had the most notable increase in openings.
• Opposition among core golfers to government mandated closures is growing. See which demographic is changing their tune the most.
• Been practicing at home the last month? You’re not alone. Learn what core golfers have been doing.
• Find out how significantly the COVID-19 crisis is increasing the “itch” to play golf.
• Read about why playing golf during the pandemic is a matter of debate.

For complete findings, including maps and data visualizations, please visit: www.thengfq.com/covid-19.

The NGF will continue to conduct weekly polls of golf courses and golfers in the weeks ahead for the benefit of those in the golf community. As we continue to monitor trends within the industry, we encourage you to share your ideas for additional topics of research.

About the National Golf Foundation

The National Golf Foundation is a community of individuals and golf businesses committed to being the most well-informed advocates for the growth of the industry. With the world’s largest research team dedicated to golf, NGF provides members with the most accurate and objective insights on the game. We help golf businesses better understand their market and grow their businesses. The NGF is the only association for everyone in golf, and we advocate for growth by educating and connecting our members.

Contact:
Erik Matuszewski
National Golf Foundation
Editorial Director
(609) 577-0652
erikm@ngf.org