Golf fans will likely undergo temperature checks and carry social distancing chip technology as The Memorial got the green light Friday to become the first PGA Tour event to allow the return of spectators.
Tournament organisers said they have received official approval from health officials in the state of Ohio to become the first to permit fans since the coronavirus pandemic put a halt to the golf season in mid-March.
The Memorial was originally scheduled to take place 4-7 June at the Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio, but was moved to 16-19 July.
“It’s official, thanks to State approval & support from the @PGATOUR, patrons will be permitted to attend the 45th edition of #theMemorial,” the tournament posted on its Twitter feed.
Organisers added that additional safety restrictions would be announced in the coming days.
Last month tournament director Dan Sullivan said fans would be given badges equipped with technology chips to ensure they are properly social distancing. He also said anyone entering the facility would undergo temperature screenings and there would be no grandstands set up around the greens.
The PGA Tour has been on hiatus since March and resumes next week at the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas. Fans will not be permitted at the Texas event.
It’s official, thanks to State approval & support from the @PGATOUR, patrons will be permitted to attend the 45th edition of #theMemorial ?. More details coming soon regarding protocols designed to promote the health & safety of all who will be on-site at this year’s Tournament. pic.twitter.com/kJG9npxol0
— #theMemorial (@MemorialGolf) June 5, 2020
