PGA beefs up virus protocols after positive cases emerge

PGA beefs up virus protocols after positive cases emerge

Revised policies come after players withdrew from Travelers Championship for Covid-19 related reasons.

Collin Morikawa tees off during the Travelers Championship golf tournament in Connecticut on Thursday. (AP pic)
NEW YORK:
The PGA Tour said Saturday it is beefing up safety protocols for upcoming tournaments following a rash of positive coronavirus tests at this week’s Travelers Championship.

The tour said in a statement that as of next week’s Rocket Mortgage Classic in Detroit, no players, caddie or other individuals will be allowed inside the “bubble” until first being cleared via a negative Covid-19 test.

Previously players and caddies were allowed to be on-site to practice as they awaited test results, but were not allowed to use any indoor facilities.

“The Tour is taking that precaution one step further to add an additional safety measure in that no player nor caddie will be on-site – anywhere – to start the week, without first being cleared through Covid-19 screening,” the Tour said.

“This same policy will apply to all individuals inside the bubble, such as independent physios, instructors, staff and others.”

The revised safety policy comes after seven players withdrew from the Travelers Championship in Connecticut for Covid-19 related reasons.

Three players and two caddies tested positive immediately before or during the event, while two other golfers withdrew as a precautionary measure.

On Saturday, Jason Day teed off in the third round alone after requesting an additional test. He was later confirmed to be negative for the disease.

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