| After careful deliberation, the PDGA Board of Directors has decided to suspend PDGA sanctioning of all events for a minimum of 15 days through March 31, 2020. This decision takes effect immediately and will be re-evaluated in the coming days as information and guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) develops.
The COVID-19 pandemic has presented all communities with an unprecedented challenge, and that goes the same for disc golf. With many municipalities mandating that gatherings be limited to 50 people or less and White House statements on March 16 calling for that number to be 10 or fewer, it is difficult to run disc golf events while still remaining in compliance with the recommendations of the WHO, CDC, and other public health experts. With the interest of not only the health and safety of members but also the greater public in mind, suspending sanctioning is the responsible choice.
“The health and safety of the disc golf community is our top priority,” Board of Directors President Justin Menickelli said. “Undoubtedly, this decision affects many stakeholders. We understand the burden this may put on tournament directors who have invested time, money, and energy into their events; on players who are now forced to alter travel plans; on sponsor relationships; as well as thousands of members who look forward to playing in sanctioned events each weekend. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic touches more communities and puts several age groups and those with underlying health conditions at risk, it is requiring sacrifices from everyone. We know our members will keep this in mind and be great ambassadors for our sport. Eventually, we will get back to business as usual, and we look forward to seeing thousands of disc golf events resume on courses around the world.”
With regard to refunds, players are encouraged to be patient in working with tournament directors, who are handling numerous requests at this time. Please see the PDGA Competition Manual for Disc Golf Events section 1.03 online for more information on withdrawals and refunds. PDGA staff has also complied a list of frequently asked questions. Please keep an eye on PDGA.com for the most up-to-date information.
As a reminder, please be sure to follow the guidance issued from the WHO and CDC for preventative measures to limit the spread of COVID-19:
- Wash your hands with soap regularly and thoroughly (30 seconds) or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap is not available. This measure is particularly important before meals, especially in a buffet-style service.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with your hands.
- Avoid close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections and stay at least two meters away from infected people or people who are showing symptoms (such as coughing).
- Avoid mass gatherings.
- Ventilate hotel rooms regularly.
- Seek medical care if you have a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.
- Stay informed and follow the advice of your healthcare provider.
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