Do Golf Courses Close for Rain?
You might not relish the opportunity to play golf in the rain, and it’s understandable that players therefore steer clear of their usual courses whenever the heavens open. However, is that always because they’re avoiding the rain, or does it also have something to do with golf courses closing when it rains? In today’s blog, we’ll be exploring these questions and more.
Light rain might not lead to closures, but heavy rain or thunderstorms can pose safety risks and damage the golf course. Factors like player safety and course integrity determine whether a golf course will close during rain events.
Do Golf Courses Close for Rain?
The short answer to this question is: “It depends.” After all, the term ‘rain’ can mean so many different things, in English there are over 50 words to describe rain alone!
In the event of drizzle or other light rain, it’s unlikely that a golf course would close because such weather tends to come and go in short periods. If, however, there were a large deluge, especially with thunder and lightning, then a course might close both for the players’ safety, and to preserve the physical integrity of the course.
Effects of Light Rain On your Golf Course and Game
A small rainshower or period of drizzle is only going to make one’s golf game a little uncomfortable for a time. With proper rain gear and/or the carrying of decent, large golf umbrellas, then one can easily counteract this light rain and continue on as normal.
The main area of concern is that even light rain will make the ground on the fairways and greens softer, which in turn can have an impact on the game. For instance, a ball hit from the tee might not bounce or roll as far along the fairway as when conditions were dry.
In any event, light rain is unlikely to affect a golf course or club’s decision to remain open, unless they have reason to believe that the light rain is merely a prelude to something far worse.
We also have an article about playing in the rain with tips here on the site linked here and below.
Impact of Heavy Rain and Storms on Golf Courses
When there is much heavier rain and thunderstorms afoot, it’s quite possible that a club or golf course will suspend play and close the course until it clears up. That’s not to say other facilities at the club won’t remain open, such as a health club, gym, spa, pool, etc. However, there are good reasons to limit access to the golf course at this time.
First of all, playing in heavy rain and thunder isn’t exactly a safe environment for the players. Besides the ever-present danger of lightning strikes, there is also excess water to think about.
If the golf course becomes water-logged or even flooded, then this can be a whole new level of danger to players on the course. bad weather and flood waters might even attract certain dangerous wildlife in some parts of the country, such as alligators.
Another key reason for closure is to protect the golf course itself. As we mentioned earlier, rain will soften up the ground on which a golf course sits. Softer ground is more susceptible to damage, and the heavier the rain, the softer the ground will be, in particular the greens. It takes a lot of time, effort, and continued maintenance to keep greens in the best-possible condition.
Players left to play in adverse rainy conditions are likely to cause damage to the greens, as well as the fairways, that will take a great deal more time to repair. Better, then, to close the course for a day while the weather clears up.
Potential risks and Hazards of Playing Golf in the Rain
Further above, we talked more specifically about the dangers of thunder and lightning storms to golfers, as well as those of flood waters that might get onto the course. Besides these there are other dangers to playing in the rain that would at least explain why courses discourage play in the rain, regardless of how heavy or light it is.
Loose Clubs
One problem that can happen when playing in wet weather is golfers losing their proper grip on their clubs. Maintaining proper traction between hands and clubs is critical both for effective play and for comfort.
When it’s raining, it’s hard for players to keep proper traction, which will first of all affect their game (most likely in a negative way) and second could lead to blisters or irritation on their hands, particularly their ungloved hand.
Slipping on the Ground
Besides a lack of traction between hand and club, golfers in the rain may also face a distinct lack of grip between their feet and the ground. Even when wearing proper golf shoes, which normally can increase traction and prevent damage on the course, rain makes the kind of potential slippage that none of us can avoid.
With the rain comes damp and mud in the ground, which naturally makes everything slippier. This presents danger to golfers who could find themselves at best pulling a muscle as they suddenly slip across the ground, or at worst experiencing a serious injury as they slip and fall on their back or side.
Effective Tips for Playing Golf in the Rain?
There are some things golfers can do to make rain play more tolerable. A good policy is to avoid the course altogether if rain is forecast, but if you’re trying to beat the rain and get caught out, then there are steps you can take.
- Invest in a rain jacket for extra warmth and to protect your golf shirts from getting too wet
- Get rain gloves that can enhance your grip in wet weather and prevent slipping
- Purchase a hat to wear in the rain to keep your hair dry and stop rain from getting in your eyes
- Attach or store an umbrella to your golf bag; these umbrellas are generally large and protective enough to allow you to stand and swing from underneath, or someone could hold it for you while putting and it would keep you both dry.
As we have mentioned, though, the best policy is to avoid wet weather conditions when it comes to golf. Furthermore, try to understand why it is that a club might close their course when such conditions occur. It’s not only to protect you, but also to ensure that you have a great course to play on when the sun is shining again.
Do Pro Golfers play golf in the Rain
Rain can have a profound impact on professional golf tournaments. Unlike casual play, these events are meticulously planned and involve players, spectators, and broadcasters from around the world. As such, rain can cause significant disruptions.
In light rain, play typically continues, although the conditions can make the game more challenging. Rain can alter the ball’s behavior on the fairways and greens, which requires players to adjust their strategies. In case of heavy rain or storms, however, play is usually suspended for safety reasons and to preserve the course conditions.
There are also specific rules in place. Such decisions are not taken lightly as they can disrupt schedules and affect the competitive fairness of the tournament. Yet, safety and maintaining the integrity of the game remain paramount.
Golfing in the Rain: F.A.Q
Other Ways to play golf if its raining.
You can always head to an indoor golf complex that may have VR, Putting greens or even golf simulators to practice when its raining, or invest in some of these things yourself. We have three ideas on how to keep your golf game going when the weather suggests you stay indoors below and many more on the site!
How long after rain can you play golf?
The ability to play golf after rain largely depends on the amount of rainfall and the course’s drainage capabilities. After a light shower, you might be able to resume play almost immediately. However, heavy rain could lead to pooling or soft conditions that require more time for the course to recover, potentially several hours or even a day. It’s best to check with the course management about when it’s safe and practical to return to play.
How to deal with rain in golf?
Rain can add an extra challenge to golf. To handle it, you’ll need suitable gear like waterproof clothing, gloves, and slip-resistant shoes. Keep your equipment dry using rain covers for your golf bag and towels to wipe down wet clubs.
Play might be slower and you’ll need to adjust your shots since the ball won’t travel as far on wet ground. Embrace the challenge, be patient, and remember that everyone else is dealing with the same conditions.
Can you play golf in a thunderstorm?
Playing golf during a thunderstorm is extremely dangerous and is strongly discouraged. Golfers are at risk due to the open nature of golf courses and the fact that clubs can act as lightning rods.
If there are signs of a thunderstorm, such as dark skies, distant rumbles of thunder, or flashes of light, it’s best to seek shelter immediately and wait until the storm has completely passed before resuming play.
Do golf professionals play in the rain?
Yes, golf professionals do play in the rain, unless conditions become unsafe or the course becomes unplayable. In professional tournaments, the decision to continue play during rain is made by the tournament director or governing body.
They consider the intensity of the rain, lightning risk, and course conditions. Even in the rain, pros must adapt to the conditions, which can include adjusting their swing and strategy due to changes in the course.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while golf is traditionally a fair-weather sport, both professional and amateur players must sometimes contend with rain. While light rain might not lead to course closures, heavy rain, thunderstorms, or poor drainage conditions can make golfing unsafe and unplayable.
It’s always advisable to respect the decisions made by golf course management regarding closures, as they aim to protect both the players and the course. Golfers braving the rain should be equipped with the right gear and be aware of how wet conditions can affect gameplay.
Most importantly, remember that safety is paramount; golfing during a thunderstorm should be strictly avoided. When it comes to golf in the rain, preparedness, understanding, and adaptation are key to ensure a safe and enjoyable game.
