Golf courses, although spacious and outdoors, have seen quite the impact during the global pandemic. Golf carts remain parked and swings have stopped as frequent players are staying home in an effort to social distance.
But as most of Virginia eases restrictions on parks and recreation, local courses are beginning to reopen, and one of the state’s well-known courses, Massanutten Resort, is offering at-home golfing tips to keep you sharp while it waits to welcome golfers back someday soon.
Below, find a few tips from Jason Crawford, Massanutten Resort’s head golf pro, and a list of local golf courses that are reopening in Northern Virginia.
For more explanations and handy tips from Crawford, check out the resort’s “Massanutten Moments” videos on YouTube.
Uneven Line Shots
When encountering uneven line shots at Massanutten Resort, or other courses you typically frequent, here are a few tips on how to make sure you have a successful shot.
Ball above feet
- “Don’t try to swing for maximal distance; hitting the ball is all about solid contact.”
- “A ball above your feet will tend to fly to the left for a right-handed golfer. The clubhead will match the slope, so if the slope goes to the left the flight of the ball will move to the left.”
- “You’re going to want to make your adjustments so you can hit this shot solidly in your set-up. The way I combat this is I stand up a little taller and grip down an inch closer to the handle.”
Ball below feet
- “To allow for a shot to curve to the right, aim farther left. Expect a higher ball flight and less momentum for a solid roll.”
- “Due to the ground sloping away, the club is shortened. The best stance for this angle is to bend your hips and lean your upper body forward to reach the ball.”
Golf Courses Reopening
Here’s where to play in Northern Virginia (following each course’s rules and restrictions). Nearly all golf courses are currently requiring pre-booked tee times online. Please plan ahead before visiting.
Algonkian Golf Course – Open normal operating hours. Social distancing is encouraged and sanitation protocols have been increased. Food and beverage stations are closed until further notice. Carts will be single-rider only unless guests come from the same household.
Brambleton Golf Course – Open normal operating hours. Social distancing is encouraged and sanitation protocols have been increased. Food and beverage stations are closed until further notice. Carts will be single-rider only unless guests come from the same household.
Burke Lake Golf Center – Open normal operating hours. Social distancing is encouraged and sanitation protocols (as well as specific directions) are posted on the course and should be followed at all times. Food and beverage stations are closed. Review the Park & Play Safety guidelines before visiting.
Greendale Golf Course – Open normal operating hours. Social distancing is encouraged and sanitation protocols (as well as specific directions) are posted on the course and should be followed at all times. Food and beverage stations are closed. Review the Park & Play Safety guidelines before visiting.
Jefferson District Golf Course – Open normal hours starting Friday, May 22. Social distancing is encouraged and sanitation protocols (as well as specific directions) are posted on the course and should be followed at all times. Food and beverage stations are closed. Review the Park & Play Safety guidelines before visiting.
Laurel Hill Golf Club – Open normal operating hours. Social distancing is encouraged and sanitation protocols (as well as specific directions) are posted on the course and should be followed at all times. Food and beverage stations are closed. Review the Park & Play Safety guidelines before visiting.
Oak Marr Golf Complex – Open normal operating hours. Social distancing is encouraged and sanitation protocols (as well as specific directions) are posted on the course and should be followed at all times. Food and beverage stations are closed. Review the Park & Play Safety guidelines before visiting.
Pinecrest Golf Course – Open normal operating hours. Social distancing is encouraged and sanitation protocols (as well as specific directions) are posted on the course and should be followed at all times. Food and beverage stations are closed. Review the Park & Play Safety guidelines before visiting.
Pohick Bay Golf Course – Open normal operating hours. Social distancing is encouraged and sanitation protocols have been increased. Food and beverage stations are closed until further notice. Carts will be single-rider only unless guests come from the same household.
Twin Lakes Golf Course – Open normal operating hours. Social distancing is encouraged and sanitation protocols (as well as specific directions) are posted on the course and should be followed at all times. Food and beverage stations are closed. Review the Park & Play Safety guidelines before visiting.
For more on Northern Virginia’s parks and recreational activities, subscribe to our Parks & Rec newsletter.
