2 carts per foursome starting Oct. 10

[Regor]

The Villages golf courses are going back to only 2 carts per foursome on Oct. 10. I think it is a terrible idea! This pandemic is far from over! You can't social distance in a golf cart.

Also the PVC in the holes will be gone (Yea!) and rakes will be back in the bunkers.

[tophcfa]

The Villages golf courses are going back to only 2 carts per foursome on Oct. 10. I think it is a terrible idea! This pandemic is far from over! You can't social distance in a golf cart.

Also the PVC in the holes will be gone (Yea!) and rakes will be back in the bunkers.

I agree, terrible idea. If I am forced to ride with a complete stranger, who I have no idea what safety precautions and risks they are taking, I will not play.

[billethkid]

Like masks it should be an individual decision.
Surprising, premature move by the risk adverse decision makers.

[DonH57]

The Villages golf courses are going back to only 2 carts per foursome on Oct. 10. I think it is a terrible idea! This pandemic is far from over! You can't social distance in a golf cart.

Also the PVC in the holes will be gone (Yea!) and rakes will be back in the bunkers.

Just curious. Where has this been posted? If it's true they're putting a big risk on people forcing them to share carts with others they don't know. Too early in my opinion.:ohdear:

[gatorbill1]

The Villages golf courses are going back to only 2 carts per foursome on Oct. 10. I think it is a terrible idea! This pandemic is far from over! You can't social distance in a golf cart.

Also the PVC in the holes will be gone (Yea!) and rakes will be back in the bunkers.

Where did you hear this - not on TV golf website

[jswintberg]

Totally agree, way too early. Just yesterday there were 117 people testing positive in the Tri-County area. The numbers are going up in Fl. Not only would you be brain dead to get into a cart with someone you don’t know, what about the reckless disregard of safety protocol among people who allegedly know each other? Is the alternative not to play golf, or would it be prudent to show up at the starter gate with four carts? This is a decision that deserves a strong push back.

[alwann]

The Villages golf courses are going back to only 2 carts per foursome on Oct. 10. I think it is a terrible idea! This pandemic is far from over! You can't social distance in a golf cart.

Also the PVC in the holes will be gone (Yea!) and rakes will be back in the bunkers.

They should make it optional. They also might want to consult their legal advisor. Require someone to ride with a stranger and that person gets the virus, the Dan Newlins of the world may find The Villages liable.

[Regor]

I got the information from an ambassador. He was given a memo advising him of the change.

[mgkw1]

The Villages golf courses are going back to only 2 carts per foursome on Oct. 10. I think it is a terrible idea! This pandemic is far from over! You can't social distance in a golf cart.

Also the PVC in the holes will be gone (Yea!) and rakes will be back in the bunkers.

There are people now who will ride to a golf course in a car with 3 other people, and then each get their own cart to social distance. The people at the courses are not ogres, if you do not want to ride with a strange you can ride by yourself. The fewer carts then less wear an tear on the paths, the less mileage on the carts, the less gas the carts use. These are cost saving factors which help keep the cost of cart rentals low.

[Florida Fan]

I seriously doubt that this will be mandatory. It was never mandatory in the past. If I registered as a single golfer, I took my own cart. No one ever required strangers to ride together. Let's not take this info too seriously.

[ureout]

[QUOTE=Regor;1842590]The Villages golf courses are going back to only 2 carts per foursome on Oct. 10. I think it is a terrible idea! This pandemic is far from over! You can't social distance in a golf cart.


just for info. it's 2 carts allowed in the fairway and 2 in the rough... it's ok with me the guys I golf with can't hit the fairway anyway

[Dana1963]

The Villages golf courses are going back to only 2 carts per foursome on Oct. 10. I think it is a terrible idea! This pandemic is far from over! You can't social distance in a golf cart.

Also the PVC in the holes will be gone (Yea!) and rakes will be back in the bunkers.
I am not renewing my PRIORITY MEMBERSHIP. But reserve my option to renew if policy changes!

[Lottoguy]

Things won't change. People will be able to drive their own cart. Just stay on the path.

[graciegirl]

I got the information from an ambassador. He was given a memo advising him of the change.

ON WHAT COURSE???? The ambassador on this forum, Krazorback...He hasn't mentioned it.


Somebody call golf course management. This is not good.

[Bogie Shooter]

There are people now who will ride to a golf course in a car with 3 other people, and then each get their own cart to social distance. The people at the courses are not ogres, if you do not want to ride with a strange you can ride by yourself. The fewer carts then less wear an tear on the paths, the less mileage on the carts, the less gas the carts use. These are cost saving factors which help keep the cost of cart rentals low.

Most golfers own their carts.

[graciegirl]

Here is the number. They aren't open today but you can register your question and leave your number.

Golf & Country Club Issues
(352) 753-3396

I have to believe that this is repeated gossip.

[golfing eagles]

ON WHAT COURSE???? The ambassador on this forum, Krazorback...He hasn't mentioned it.


Somebody call golf course management. This is not good.

Starter at Bonifay told me the same thing.

But no one is going to be forced to ride with another, it will simply be the rules that existed for years prior to COVID-----ride with someone, if you don't , you have to stay on the cart path, only 2 carts are allowed on the fairway. We've been sharing carts on the Golf Channel Tour since June, no problems as far as I know

[graciegirl]

Starter at Bonifay told me the same thing.

But no one is going to be forced to ride with another, it will simply be the rules that existed for years prior to COVID-----ride with someone, if you don't , you have to stay on the cart path, only 2 carts are allowed on the fairway. We've been sharing carts on the Golf Channel Tour since June, no problems as far as I know

It's a guy thing. No guy wants to be a weenie.

[Dana1963]

It's a guy thing. No guy wants to be a weenie.
BS Real men aren’t afraid to ask for directions

[kwachowski]

It actually starts on October 12th.

[Polar Bear]

FWIW, a point of info from The Villages Golf and Tennis online update sheet. It still contains the following...

"The Villages Golf & Tennis Administration – UPDATES (as of 10/1/20)...Although we encourage golfers from different households to ride in separate golf cars, the choice is yours."

https://www.golfthevillages.com/whatsnew/UPDATES.pdf

[Two Bills]

Walk!

[Bjeanj]

Also the PVC in the holes will be gone (Yea!) and rakes will be back in the bunkers.

Oh great. I HATE being in the bunker and having to rake! Will have to hit better so I don’t get in the sand!

[rjn5656]

I don't have an issue with it. I know the people I play with and their risk.

[Number 10 GI]

I'm so glad I don't golf. Too much drama!

[YouNeverKnow]

Here is the number. They aren't open today but you can register your question and leave your number.

Golf & Country Club Issues
(352) 753-3396

I have to believe that this is repeated gossip.
Here is the latest notice that was sent out via email to those that
have signed up for updates from The Villages Golf and Tennis website. It lists all the changes as of October 10. Among them is two carts per foursome.

[graciegirl]

Here is the latest notice that was sent out via email to those that
have signed up for updates from The Villages Golf and Tennis website. It lists all the changes as of October 10. Among them is two carts per foursome.

It clearly shows that to be the case. I was wrong. It isn't a rumor. Very sorry OP.

[kcrazorbackfan]

ON WHAT COURSE???? The ambassador on this forum, Krazorback...He hasn't mentioned it.


Somebody call golf course management. This is not good.

Not an Ambassador; 2 people to a cart is the policy, as before; if 4 players still want to take their own cart, 2 of the carts must remain on the cart path.

[tophcfa]

Not an Ambassador; 2 people to a cart is the policy, as before; if 4 players still want to take their own cart, 2 of the carts must remain on the cart path.

So who determines which golfers have to stay on the cart path if everyone is uncomfortable riding with strangers?

[Villager54]

Where did you hear this - not on TV golf website

This is highly irresponsible and dangerous to our health! We should all ignore this and keep to individual carts ( 4 per foursome).

[pauld315]

The Villages golf courses are going back to only 2 carts per foursome on Oct. 10. I think it is a terrible idea! This pandemic is far from over! You can't social distance in a golf cart.

Also the PVC in the holes will be gone (Yea!) and rakes will be back in the bunkers.

So PVC gone and rakes back is fine but 2 in a golf cart isn't ?

[tophcfa]

So PVC gone and rakes back is fine but 2 in a golf cart isn't ?

That is correct. If I choose to rake a trap or pull a pin, I will be very careful to not touch my face until I get to my cart and sanitize my hands. What I will not do is share a cart in a very close space where I can not properly distance from a total stranger. Forced sharing of a golf cart with strangers is a very bad thing during this pandemic! If they force strangers to share a cart then they should also make wearing a face mask required while golfing. That wouldn’t be very popular.

[Garwood1]

Seems to me that perhaps y’all should look around at other states that have been having 2 persons to a cart for most of the last 5 months and the numbers are going down just like in Florida, if you’re concerned about it then don’t go , the additional wear and tear on the facilities is the reason the single cart per person rule is being changed , rounds go in astronomical numbers as the winter residents arrive so it’s time

[Rwirish]

Horrible idea, the virus is far from over. Not going to sit next to someone in a golf cart. Many will just stop playing.

[Joanne19335]

I seriously doubt that this will be mandatory. It was never mandatory in the past. If I registered as a single golfer, I took my own cart. No one ever required strangers to ride together. Let's not take this info too seriously.

I am an executive ambassador. You can take it to the bank. It is true. I expressed my concern of this being too soon, but was told that the “Phase 3” rules will be implemented. The individual courses did not implement this. It came from higher up.

[FromNY]

So by The Village standards the Covid-19 pandemic is over,flu season has been suspended. Snowbirds are landing and The Villages Hoispital will be run in an efficient manner to accommodate those who end up sick. Please continue to wash your hands,use hand sanitizer, and wear the 😷 Mask. Covid-19 is not over . Or say the heck with it and bring it home to your spouse or grands. Sharing is a good thing. Maybe tomorrow town squares will not require tickets. Yep 100% back to what was.

[T186021]

There is the option to use a push cart and walk the course. Not ideal d/t the distance between tee boxes but definitely possible.

[Marathon Man]

At some point, things will return to normal and we will never quite be sure if the time is right or if it is too early.

BTW - No one is forced to ride in a cart with another person. At least not as long as playing golf remains optional.

[Cheese]

I agree, way too early to go back to “normal” on the courses! Bad idea.

[Singerlady]

The Villages golf courses are going back to only 2 carts per foursome on Oct. 10. I think it is a terrible idea! This pandemic is far from over! You can't social distance in a golf cart.

Also the PVC in the holes will be gone (Yea!) and rakes will be back in the bunkers.

So, if you’re playing with 2 people that have RAs, then the non-RA people will have to drive on the path for all 18 holes. I’m not comfortable riding with anyone except for my husband, and he will not golf with me on ladies days! And I am not going to be the one always riding on the cart paths. I really do not want to handle a rake that someone else has used. The solution to that is a personal rake on my cart. What is going to happen if people will not touch the rake and rake the sand? Exactly what has been happening now.... messy sand traps. I assume there will be people who will refuse to touch the rake and we will see traps with foot prints. With regard to the pin, I will not touch it or remove it. I imagine other people will do the same and now we will see an increase in damage to the cup.
I find the timing of this suspect with the snowbirds coming down. Is this to please the swarms that will be coming from God knows where or do the developers anticipate a drop off by year-round residents being made up by the snowbirds?
Why were individual Golf Carts allowed on the golf courses for this long but all of a sudden they aren’t. Could it be the snowbirds?

[UseYourBrain]

Way too premature. We are coming into the fall where cases are likely to go up. Also, the pandemic is far from over, even with a vaccine. Don’t understand the logic at all other than they “can”. Not a good decision

[Skunky1]

Simple walk the course or have two people play or don’t play at all

[BSmeltzer]

Good luck enforcing this!! No way am I going to ride with someone other than my wife, and they will not stop me from riding by myself unless they physically restrain me!

[Girlcopper]

Just curious. Where has this been posted? If it's true they're putting a big risk on people forcing them to share carts with others they don't know. Too early in my opinion.:ohdear:
No one is being forced to do anything. Life wont end without golf

[Dana1963]

Oh great. I HATE being in the bunker and having to rake! Will have to hit better so I don’t get in the sand!
Isn’t that the ambassador’s job

[Dilligas]

Most RA tags are going by Jan 1. Without all four carts individual riders, especially with two on cart path, our less than 4 hour rounds will go to almost 5 hours. I worry less about myself, than bring COVID home to my asthmatic wife. Agree it’s too early. Stage 3 reopening still require social distancing and masks when in close quarters.

[DonH57]

So, if you’re playing with 2 people that have RAs, then the non-RA people will have to drive on the path for all 18 holes. I’m not comfortable riding with anyone except for my husband, and he will not golf with me on ladies days! And I am not going to be the one always riding on the cart paths. I really do not want to handle a rake that someone else has used. The solution to that is a personal rake on my cart. What is going to happen if people will not touch the rake and rake the sand? Exactly what has been happening now.... messy sand traps. I assume there will be people who will refuse to touch the rake and we will see traps with foot prints. With regard to the pin, I will not touch it or remove it. I imagine other people will do the same and now we will see an increase in damage to the cup.
I find the timing of this suspect with the snowbirds coming down. Is this to please the swarms that will be coming from God knows where or do the developers anticipate a drop off by year-round residents being made up by the snowbirds?
Why were individual Golf Carts allowed on the golf courses for this long but all of a sudden they aren’t. Could it be the snowbirds?

People were not raking out bunkers or placing rakes back correctly, fixing divots or ball marks, observing the 90 degree rule on fairways and damaging cups way before the pandemic. I forgot one, hitting upon other groups. :duck:

[Jazzman]

So, if you’re playing with 2 people that have RAs, then the non-RA people will have to drive on the path for all 18 holes. I’m not comfortable riding with anyone except for my husband, and he will not golf with me on ladies days! And I am not going to be the one always riding on the cart paths. I really do not want to handle a rake that someone else has used. The solution to that is a personal rake on my cart. What is going to happen if people will not touch the rake and rake the sand? Exactly what has been happening now.... messy sand traps. I assume there will be people who will refuse to touch the rake and we will see traps with foot prints. With regard to the pin, I will not touch it or remove it. I imagine other people will do the same and now we will see an increase in damage to the cup.


I find the timing of this suspect with the snowbirds coming down. Is this to please the swarms that will be coming from God knows where or do the developers anticipate a drop off by year-round residents being made up by the snowbirds?
Why were individual Golf Carts allowed on the golf courses for this long but all of a sudden they aren’t. Could it be the snowbirds?

IMO, yes it is about the snowbirds just like it is every year. This is a foolish ruling. One of the advantages of single carts is that the rounds usually are a bit quicker as everyone can drive right to their own ball location, unless of course you get stuck behind a group that’s getting their moneys worth out of the round. The wear and tear is an excuse. It’s the players who don’t fill divots, etc.or take any other type of responsibilities when playing that affect course conditions. Course managers can easily dictate when carts should be limited to roughs on either side based on conditions at any point in time.

[Ladays1978@gmail.com]

Why would think it is alright to ride with a friend? They can infect you as easily as someone you dont know without you even knowing it.

[jamorela]

"just for info. it's 2 carts allowed in the fairway and 2 in the rough... it's ok with me the guys I golf with can't hit the fairway anyway":1rotfl:

LOL! I can't either!

[graciegirl]

Why would think it is alright to ride with a friend? They can infect you as easily as someone you dont know without you even knowing it.

My husband got a test and quarantined when a son of a regular played with them and then he was found to test positive for Covid.

It scared the whole bunch. All four groups that my husband plays with every week have stopped having lunch together and riding together and it seemed to be a good plan. Why change something that is just good sense?

[forebubba]

I agree, terrible idea. If I am forced to ride with a complete stranger, who I have no idea what safety precautions and risks they are taking, I will not play.

I agree!
This virus is not gone and will intensify if we all think its over.
No squares for me either

[ILLINOIS RAY]

There will be a lot of tee times available if this in enforced. I sign up as a single golfer a lot of times and no way am I getting into a cart with a stranger that I have no idea about their health. Can't see that this will be enforced

[kendi]

People will be up in arms no
matter when they choose to make changes or what changes are made.

[DaleDivine]

Isn’t that the ambassador’s job

NOOOOO.. The individual that goes in the sandtrap is SUPPOSED to rake it.
When they put the rakes back.

[tophcfa]

There is the option to use a push cart and walk the course. Not ideal d/t the distance between tee boxes but definitely possible.

But there is not an option to have old and worn out knees become young again. Have you ever tried walking from the 9th green at Laurel Valley to the first T box at Riley Grove? Talk about slowing down the pace of play.

[ctmurray]

FWIW, a point of info from The Villages Golf and Tennis online update sheet. It still contains the following...

"The Villages Golf & Tennis Administration – UPDATES (as of 10/1/20)...Although we encourage golfers from different households to ride in separate golf cars, the choice is yours."

https://www.golfthevillages.com/whatsnew/UPDATES.pdf

Thanks for the link. The upper section says the quote you provided. Additionally that section says PVC inserts will stay but be reduced height, and no rakes in the bunkers. Now this is the first page and says it is an Update, so might be changing what is printed in the flyer.

The second page "flyer" says the opposite, only 2 carts per group, PVC inserts removed, and rakes put back in bunkers.

[chuckster]

Gee that's too bad.....lol

[Donb0975]

Announced on Friday, should be posted in golf shops and starter shacks by now. Going into effect on the 12th.

[TimeForChange]

I'll just tell the starter I have a high temp and a cough.

[MSchad]

Isn’t that the ambassador’s job
Seriously! New to golf? Highly recommend attending the good golf school, or at least reading the good golf guide pamphlet you can pick up for free at any course.

[Marshaw]

golfinfo@thevillages.com send a note saying no way.

[Donb0975]

Bingo!!!

[jjombrello]

I was told you can still use four carts, but two would have to stay in the rough. The foursome would have to decide on each hole who goes to the fairway and who stays in the rough. Not a tough thing to do.

[MSchad]

I would suggest expressing your opinion here:
GolfInfo@TheVillages.com

[TimeForChange]

I am an executive ambassador. You can take it to the bank. It is true. I expressed my concern of this being too soon, but was told that the “Phase 3” rules will be implemented. The individual courses did not implement this. It came from higher up.

I have a feeling a lot of players will drive to the course and walk with a pull cart. I know I will. Phase three or not this is a stupid change at this point. With the "two car tag", slowbirds coming back we are wide open for a virus breakout like we have not seen.

[alanmcdonald]

I called the golf office this morning. They did not make the decision. They are getting LOTS of calls about this. They asked me to send an e-mail to golfinfo@thevillages.com to complain about this.

They did confirm that you can have more than 2 carts but no more than 2 on the championship fairways or the executive par 4s.

[paulajr]

Isn’t that the ambassador’s job


Nope

[Mrmean58]

Isn’t that the ambassador’s job

WHAT??!! You can't be serious. It's never been the ambassador/marshals/rangers job. It's good golf manners. The only people who think it's not their job are lazy entitled golfers. You hit out of a sand trap, you take it. Make a divot or ball maker, you fix it. If you don't want to, try mini golf or golf off campus.

[NoMoSno]

WHAT??!! You can't be serious. It's never been the ambassador/marshals/rangers job. It's good golf manners. The only people who think it's not their job are lazy entitled golfers. You hit out of a sand trap, you take it. Make a divot or ball maker, you fix it. If you don't want to, try mini golf or golf off campus.
The same rules apply if you golf "off campus"

[Mrmean58]

I'll just tell the starter I have a high temp and a cough.
And you will be given a rain check and asked to leave.

[Mrmean58]

The same rules apply if you golf "off campus"
Yes they do but at least the inconsiderate golfers will be destroying courses outside of the community.

[NoMoSno]

Yes they do but at least the inconsiderate golfers will be destroying courses outside of the community.
Since I own properties in all the surrounding communities as well as TV, I'd prefer everyone to follow the rules.

[Indy-Guy]

At all times you should use the 90 degree rule when driving your cart on the course.

Stay in the rough until you get parallel to your ball then drive on the fairway to your ball hit it the return to the rough and then repeat. If everyone in 4 carts would do this it would do less wear and tear on the course than 2 carts not doing the above and pace of play would go quicker.

I see so many people just driving straight down the fairway all the time and then they complain about course conditions.

[Mrmean58]

So, if you’re playing with 2 people that have RAs, then the non-RA people will have to drive on the path for all 18 holes. I’m not comfortable riding with anyone except for my husband, and he will not golf with me on ladies days! And I am not going to be the one always riding on the cart paths. I really do not want to handle a rake that someone else has used. The solution to that is a personal rake on my cart. What is going to happen if people will not touch the rake and rake the sand? Exactly what has been happening now.... messy sand traps. I assume there will be people who will refuse to touch the rake and we will see traps with foot prints. With regard to the pin, I will not touch it or remove it. I imagine other people will do the same and now we will see an increase in damage to the cup.
I find the timing of this suspect with the snowbirds coming down. Is this to please the swarms that will be coming from God knows where or do the developers anticipate a drop off by year-round residents being made up by the snowbirds?
Why were individual Golf Carts allowed on the golf courses for this long but all of a sudden they aren’t. Could it be the snowbirds?
It maybe very easy to blame the timing on the arrival of seasonal residents but that would be misinformation. When all outside activities were shut down in the spring except for golf, the number of golf rounds played in TV went UP by tens of thousands. Most of those plus the expected or normal number of rounds played were in single rider carts. So yes course conditions were negatively impacted inspite of the greens keepers efforts. Some of the single riders didn't care where they drove, not returning to cart paths near the greens, driving through garden areas and even through sand traps. Yes I do work at a champ course and have witnessed these behaviors first hand. Like all aspects of a group, a vast majority care about the courses and how they leave them but there has been a growing number of bad apples in this single cart era who could give a rip and do whatever they want to.

[ficoguy]

I'm not riding with some snowbird from up north

[DARFAP]

Interesting. Every time I hopped in with a group (pre-pandemic), we were told only 2 carts, and I normally ended up riding with someone else because the others never wanted to give up their cart. Was told the only time this 2 cart rule didn't apply was if someone was a smoker--couldn't force one to ride with the smoker.

[KCoffey]

I heard about it on WVLG this morning. Did not hear start date though.

[Red White & Blue]

They want us dead!
Besides, if someone that I don't know want so ride with me I'm charging $4.00 per 9 Holes....
Its my personal cart not the Villages!!!!!!

[swooner]

[QUOTE=Regor;1842590]The Villages golf courses are going back to only 2 carts per foursome on Oct. 10. I think it is a terrible idea! This pandemic is far from over! You can't social distance in a golf cart.


just for info. it's 2 carts allowed in the fairway and 2 in the rough... it's ok with me the guys I golf with can't hit the fairway anyway
Which two get to ride in the fairway? Who plans to enforce it. Nonsense! Does anyone else agree golf administration is run by a bunch of jerks?

[Red White & Blue]

I am an executive ambassador. You can take it to the bank. It is true. I expressed my concern of this being too soon, but was told that the “Phase 3” rules will be implemented. The individual courses did not implement this. It came from higher up.

Its Snow-Bird-Time: the Villages wants to show that everything is fine here and for them to come back down!
Its all about the money, soon you'll be able to shake your butt's at the squares while drinking their expensive drinks....

[DeanFL]

.
.
...when I first saw this, my first thought was>
.

[Shadow8IA]

They’ve always allowed 3 carts. One just has to stay on the golf cart path.

[alwann]

Not meaning to hijack this thread, but has anybody seen the winter rates yet? Come January you will pay more for the privilege of riding with a Covid spreader. Snowbird season has higher rates. I wonder whether Golf Management will goose them up again.

[MSchad]

Not meaning to hijack this thread, but has anybody seen the winter rates yet? Come January you will pay more for the privilege of riding with a Covid spreader. Snowbird season has higher rates. I wonder whether Golf Management will goose them up again.
Where did you see the price hike on rates/fees?

[Regor]

Where did you see the price hike on rates/fees?

He was asking if anyone has seen the new rates.

[Singerlady]

It maybe very easy to blame the timing on the arrival of seasonal residents but that would be misinformation. When all outside activities were shut down in the spring except for golf, the number of golf rounds played in TV went UP by tens of thousands. Most of those plus the expected or normal number of rounds played were in single rider carts. So yes course conditions were negatively impacted inspite of the greens keepers efforts. Some of the single riders didn't care where they drove, not returning to cart paths near the greens, driving through garden areas and even through sand traps. Yes I do work at a champ course and have witnessed these behaviors first hand. Like all aspects of a group, a vast majority care about the courses and how they leave them but there has been a growing number of bad apples in this single cart era who could give a rip and do whatever they want to.

So, you’re basically saying that they’re punishing us who have good golf etiquette for those that don’t? The timing is VERY SUSPECT! We now have ambassadors who no longer dispense water and rarely give out sand. So, when these ambassadors see bad course behavior, what actions do they take? They may mention it to the individual, but unable to take any actions beyond that. So, what we have are rules that can’t be enforced. There are no consequences to bad course behavior/etiquette.

Also, the opening of the squares is right in line with my thinking, too. Hmmmmmm.....

[davefin]

Boy, they really screwed up the wording in the 2 cart rule. It was NOT intended to require 2 golfers per cart. ONLY two carts on fairway on Championship and Executive par 4 courses. They need to re word this!

[drcar]

I seriously doubt that this will be mandatory. It was never mandatory in the past. If I registered as a single golfer, I took my own cart. No one ever required strangers to ride together. Let's not take this info too seriously.

You are correct, NO ONE will be forced to ride with someone just like before. BUT only 2 carts on fairway at one time!

[cleanwater]

Drinking fountains shut down but we can cozy up to each other safely? Seems openings so much at once is reckless to me. Opening recreation centers, music at squares, and buddy up in golf carts too. I thought the Villages was very prudent with the many limitations they put in place. We still have no good coronavirus medicine or vaccines. Seems way too early for increasing exposures for old folks. Hope it works out ok but count me out of these risky activities. All these decisions are being made with no public health review or least none that is made public. I’d have a lot more confidence if they shared the public health recommendations that led to rpthese changes.

[yankygrl]

5 million people have gotten sick. 200,000 have died just here in the U.S. Cases are going up! The leaders of this state and country say things are getting better, so we should forget all the things that caused the amount of cases to decrease for a while. Open everything back up! About as stupid as stupid can get.
You don’t have to participate if you’re not comfortable. STAY HOME

[JoMar]

You don’t have to participate if you’re not comfortable. STAY HOME

It's all about the money.....not about what makes sense. Nothing has changed since March, people are still getting sick and dying at a rate that exceeds the flu. But I agree, those that aren't comfortable will stay home and those that feel invincible won't....it's all personal choice until a higher power decides that it will take over.

[Going My Way]

Drinking fountains shut down but we can cozy up to each other safely? Seems openings so much at once is reckless to me. Opening recreation centers, music at squares, and buddy up in golf carts too. I thought the Villages was very prudent with the many limitations they put in place. We still have no good coronavirus medicine or vaccines. Seems way too early for increasing exposures for old folks. Hope it works out ok but count me out of these risky activities. All these decisions are being made with no public health review or least none that is made public. I’d have a lot more confidence if they shared the public health recommendations that led to rpthese changes.

$$$$$$$$$ Its like one of the poster wrote on top, its all about the money. They want to show that the Villages is safe in order the get the Snow Birds down here sooner. $$$$$$$$$

[Neils]

Seems to me that perhaps y’all should look around at other states that have been having 2 persons to a cart for most of the last 5 months and the numbers are going down just like in Florida, if you’re concerned about it then don’t go , the additional wear and tear on the facilities is the reason the single cart per person rule is being changed , rounds go in astronomical numbers as the winter residents arrive so it’s time

Since the residents own the exec courses and pay for all the upkeep via amenity fees, we have a right to use our courses and stay safe. Contact your CDD supervisor to discuss the cart sharing situation. They can direct the recreation dept as needed.

[Neils]

[QUOTE=ureout;1842743]
Which two get to ride in the fairway? Who plans to enforce it. Nonsense! Does anyone else agree golf administration is run by a bunch of jerks?

Residents own the exec courses via their CDD. Amenity fees pay for upkeep. The local CDD supervisors oversee the rec dept.
Golf admin is not really in charge - the residents are in charge.

[elenG]

I talked to the starter at Caine Garden. He said it’s 2 carts allowed on the fairway at the same time. You can still have 4 carts individually but you must watch so only 2 ride the fairway at the same time.

[vintageogauge]

I talked to the starter at Caine Garden. He said it’s 2 carts allowed on the fairway at the same time. You can still have 4 carts individually but you must watch so only 2 ride the fairway at the same time.

Amen, it's just going back to the way it was, not mandatory to have only 2 cars.

[Jazzman]

I talked to the starter at Caine Garden. He said it’s 2 carts allowed on the fairway at the same time. You can still have 4 carts individually but you must watch so only 2 ride the fairway at the same time.

Hmm. So I’ve only lived here three years and play three times per week on “championship” courses. No starter or ambassador has ever told me or playing partners only two carts on the fairway at a time. And prepandemic I have played in a group with one cart with two golfers and two single carts. And from what I’ve seen doesn’t look like many others have been told about that rule as well. So hypothetically, if all for balls wind up at the same general area on the fairway, who gets to ride their cart to the ball?

This is overkill. Course management can easily decide when particular fairways are designated carts on rough only per the condition of the fairways at any point during the day. With the exception of the recent rains, the majority of the fairways are rock hard and not affected by carts. What does affect the quality is the lack of etiquette on the part of those who don’t fill divots, drag their feet on the greens, drive up to greens within ten feet or less, etc.

[justjim]

Seriously! New to golf? Highly recommend attending the good golf school, or at least reading the good golf guide pamphlet you can pick up for free at any course.
I believe MSchad was just joking. However, a good friend who use to be an Ambassador told me that he had a couple of new golfers tell him just what MSchad said and they were serious. It’s very believable they are out there.

[justjim]

I'm not riding with some snowbird from up north

I understand. The only person I plan to ride with is my wife. The restrictions on activity in Illinois are much more than here in Florida. I was there just a few weeks ago and it was and still is almost a complete lock down to try and stop the COVID 19 and save lives in certain counties. The irony is that many so called snowbirds are likely to be safer to ride with than a neighbor on our same street. Still I agree changes now may be a bad idea.

[Canabarrybarb]

Be sure to voice your concern by writing to golfinfo@thevillages.com . There is no excuse for removing safety precautions at this stage. An outbreak in The Villages will cause irreparable harm to the community and to the developer's business.

[dewilson58]

The online news site reported: The most controversial change was the plan to limit golf groups to two carts.


Totally false and stirring the pot.

[Marathon Man]

$$$$$$$$$ Its like one of the poster wrote on top, its all about the money. They want to show that the Villages is safe in order the get the Snow Birds down here sooner. $$$$$$$$$

I would never live in a communty that I felt so strongly about.

[drcar]

Be sure to voice your concern by writing to golfinfo@thevillages.com . There is no excuse for removing safety precautions at this stage. An outbreak in The Villages will cause irreparable harm to the community and to the developer's business.

NOTE: two carts is not mandatory! Each person can take own cart BUT only 2 can be in the fairway at a time. No safety precautions have been removed! It is a personal choice.

[Altavia]

They have updated the message.

[justjim]

[QUOTE=swooner;1843339]

Residents own the exec courses via their CDD. Amenity fees pay for upkeep. The local CDD supervisors oversee the rec dept.
Golf admin is not really in charge - the residents are in charge.

I hear from a good source that this is being revisited regarding the golf cart riders and also the taking of PVC out of the holes. There has been a “strong outcry” about the changes.

[Karadad]

Friend has talked to both champ & exec managers. Single rider carts will be allowed but not preferred.

[Aloha1]

Take the PVC out, no problem. Even with the PVC in, you still reached in to get your golf ball.

As far as the rakes in traps, optional.Keep the USGA rule that you can move the ball to an undisturbed area in the trap with no penalty.

As far as the pins, individual choice as to whether you want to pull it or not.

[ohiosbestus]

The reason they are doing this is because the grass is going to become dormant in a while so new grass wont grow.

[tophcfa]

Friend has talked to both champ & exec managers. Single rider carts will be allowed but not preferred.

Preferred by who, golfers trying to be safe during a pandemic or the golf course? I heard a discussion about this on WVLG this AM and they are definitely backpedaling because of the feedback the poor decision has generated.

[tjbny47]

If this is golf policy is true then it should be communicated in the Daily Sun as well as handouts to golfers at every course. Social Distancing is still the practice & I don’t want to ride with a friend much less a stranger during these uncertain times. I may be riding with someone who doesn’t even know their infected. The Villages Health Locations take your temperature & demand mask use as well. Wonder how the courses will handle that. You can’t even get close to the starter shack to confirm registrations or pay a green fee with cash. Wonder if that will be handled different now.

This change, if true should be pushed back on.

[TimeForChange]

The Villages golf courses are going back to only 2 carts per foursome on Oct. 10. I think it is a terrible idea! This pandemic is far from over! You can't social distance in a golf cart.

Also the PVC in the holes will be gone (Yea!) and rakes will be back in the bunkers.

We were told by the people working the pro shop at Havana yesterday this entire plan has been shelved and there will be no changes to the number of carts on Monday.

[TimeForChange]

The reason they are doing this is because the grass is going to become dormant in a while so new grass wont grow.

I would rather the grass go dormant than for one person to contract C19 from having to ride with some snowbird they do not know because of a stupid two cart rule.

[YouNeverKnow]

I would rather the grass go dormant than for one person to contract C19 from having to ride with some snowbird they do not know because of a stupid two cart rule.
It doesn’t have to be a snowbird! Plenty of people here are not practicing social distancing and haven’t been for months. Hanging out in big groups, dinner groups at restaurants, large parties at peoples houses, no social distancing and no masks. You could just as easily spread it to your friend or neighbor without knowing you have been infected or before symptoms occur. I’d rather ride with a snowbird since many states have been much more careful than Florida or the Villages have been!
If you think you are being safe because you know the person you’re riding with or it’s a friend or neighbor think again. Many people have not been honest about the activities they have been doing. Villagers are certainly not any safer than snowbirds.