Covid-19 Measures on Golf Courses in Belek

Strict measures are being implemented on the golf courses in the Belek Tourism Center, one of the most popular destinations for golf tourism, as part of coronavirus precautions.

The Belek Tourism Center, which hosts thousands of international golf enthusiasts every year with its favorable climate, five-star hotels, and high-standard courses, has begun to revive during the normalization period. While hotels in the region are welcoming guests, maintenance and repair work is also being carried out on 16 golf courses.

On one hand, routine turf maintenance continues, while on the other, measures are being taken against the Covid-19 pandemic. Playing areas for athletes have been redesigned, and locker rooms have been closed.

Transition to Normalization Arrangements on Courses

Cahit Şahin, President of the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) Turkey and the Antalya Golf Specialized Sports Club, told Anadolu Agency that necessary precautions have also been taken on golf courses against the pandemic, which has become a global issue.

Şahin stated that arrangements have been made on the courses, which host 150,000 people annually from 30 countries, and that they examined the measures taken in golf courses in Europe and the United States, implementing regulations in line with global standards.

He also noted that the criteria set by the Turkish Golf Federation have been applied to all courses.

Emphasizing that the primary rule against the pandemic is social distancing, Şahin pointed out that golf is a sport highly suitable for maintaining social distance.

Explaining that four people play together while maintaining a distance of 2 meters, Şahin added:

"There are 18 flagsticks on golf courses, and we have developed a device to avoid touching them. When your ball enters the hole where the flag is located, you can retrieve it by using the apparatus attached to the flagstick, without touching it directly. Rakes used on the course are also being removed. Locker rooms have been closed as well. For group reservations, one person will handle the process and distribute it to the group."

Şahin stated that players’ temperatures will be checked before entering the course, and those suspected of having Covid-19 will first be monitored by the club doctor and, if necessary, referred to a hospital.

Personal Labeling for Golf Carts

Şahin also mentioned that adjustments have been made to golf carts, stating that they will be disinfected before being assigned to guests.

He explained that the carts will be designated for individual use and labeled similarly to hand luggage, adding:

"Before starting your game, you will be able to take your cleaned and disinfected golf carts, clubs, and balls, and play with peace of mind on our courses that meet international standards and have all necessary arrangements in place."