Dear Premier Ford, We understand that you are not in an enviable position having to make the tough decisions affecting millions of Ontarians. We support the initiatives that you and the government have introduced to help combat the devasting effects of Covid-19 in the province.

On behalf of our 300 members in Ontario and all Ontarians, we would like to request a review of the decision to close golf courses. The overwhelming scientific data shows that outdoor activities, conducted with the proper protocols are a safe and an important part of the physical and mental health of millions of Ontarians. We are fully supportive of the correspondence that We Are Golf Ontario has submitted for review, as we work alongside the National counterparts of those organizations.

The golf industry proved that in 2020 as well as earlier this year, golf courses can be open and provide an outdoor opportunity for physical exercise, mental health stimulation and safe social time with family or friends. With golf being the #1 participation sport in Canada and Ontario; the industry supports 110,000 workers in the province alone. The golf courses have protocols to keep those employees safe along with the 1.8 million golfers who play and enjoy the game. With the high number of rounds that took place in 2020 there was not one case of Covid-19 transmission linked to a golf course.

Ontario is currently the only Canadian province or territory that is not allowing golf to operate. Please re-consider the evidence presented. Noting that golf is safe, naturally aligned to physical distancing requirements, gives important health benefits to participants and most importantly, it takes place outside where viral spread is proven to not be a factor.
We are happy to share our safety protocols or discuss further with you or your representatives at your convenience.

Respectfully,
John Scott, AGS
President
Canadian Golf Superintendents Association