Ainsdale Golf Course opening Saturday

Ainsdale Golf Course, located on Highway 21, south of Kincardine, is opening Saturday, along with other golf courses across Ontario.

Taylor and Charles Candler, owners of the 18-hole course, are excited to get the season under way. Usually, they hold an open house in early April, and the golfing leagues begin about a month later. That was all delayed due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.

“We are thrilled to be opening,” said Taylor Candler. “That being said, some things have changed. The safety of our staff, members, and guests is of the utmost importance and we want to make sure everyone arriving to play golf is safe and enjoys the experience.

Tee times will now be required to play, she said. “If you show up without a tee time, unfortunately, you will not be able to play. This is a mandate from the provincial government, so needs to be strictly followed. You can book your tee time by calling the golf shop at 519-395-5555 or you can book on-line through your ChronoGolf account. Tee times are now 12 minutes apart to ensure the safety of all golfers and to help with social-distancing.”

Golfers are allowed to arrive 15 minutes prior to their tee times only.

“If you arrive earlier, you will be asked to wait in your vehicle,” said Candler. “The driving range and putting green will not be an option to wait out the time, as these areas will be closed for the time being. Once you check in for your tee time (within the 15-minute window), there will be a staging/waiting area for you to be in until called by the starter to the first tee. If you are playing only nine holes, you will be permitted to tee off only on the front-nine to ensure maximum safety, proper social-distance, and the same check-in process for everyone.

Because of the high demand for tee times, if you book a time and cannot make it, you are to call at least an hour prior to cancel. This will allow another member or guest to take that time slot.

As of now, power golf cart usage will be allowed, said Candler.

“Carts will be single-rider carts, unless you live in the same household,” she said. “Please follow the instructions of golf shop staff and starter for loading on to the golf carts.”

Rental pull carts will NOT be available, neither will washrooms. The porta-potties will not be on the golf course, and access to the washrooms in the clubhouse will not be permitted, as of right now.

“We are working on abiding by provincial regulations and working to adequately staff to ensure safety of these areas,” said Candler. “When we are comfortable with meeting these standards, we will let you know. Please plan accordingly.

“As we all know, this is a different time. We sincerely appreciate all the support you have shown us, and continue to show us. We thank you, in advance, for helping us with the safety and social-distancing measures put in place.”

For more information, call the golf shop at 519-395-5555 or E-mail info@ainsdalegolfcourse.com