Monroe County’s three golf courses – Genesee Valley, Durand Eastman and Churchville – are now open for the season. The courses have thrived during the pandemic, according to Greg Klem, the county’s superintendent for the courses. Klem said 200,000 rounds of golf were played last season, up from just under 100,000 in 2019.
Klem believes that with all the tensions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the links became an escape for many.
“It’s a little bit of a way of getting away from the real world. I think that’s why it was popular last year and had a record number of rounds,” said Klem. “The pandemic brought out new players. They said ‘I’m gonna pick up golf again because I can’t do anything else.’”
A number of safeguards are in place on the courses due the pandemic. Golfers will need to bring their own clubs and not pick up stray balls. Maintaining 6 feet of distance and wearing masks are required in the pro shop but not on the course if you’re with your party.
Booking rounds online ahead of time is strongly encouraged.
