Sport returns to Goodwood - first for golfers then for cyclists and drivers

On Thursday, golf was the first sport to resume at Goodwood after the Covid-19 pandemic caused the majority of the estate’s business areas to close.

In the build up to the club’s highly anticipated reopening, Golf At Goodwood members took part in a raffle, led by general manager Gary Beves, which raised £3,420 for NHS charities.

Raffle prizes included the chance to take the first tee time on both of Goodwood’s golf courses and the first lesson from one of the club’s PGA professionals. The first set of tee times were fully booked within four minutes, as Golf At Goodwood members rushed to secure their first game since Government restrictions forced the club to close.

Following the reopening of Golf At Goodwood, the Motor Circuit will also reopen from next Wednesday - 20 May - for cycling and track days, both of which can be managed within the social distancing guidelines the Government has put in place.

Cycling around the 2.5-mile track is a fun and safe way for visitors to get their daily exercise and offers a welcome change of scene for outdoor activities.

Club cyclists, leisure cyclists and families are all welcome and can be accommodated within the sessions, which will take place three days a week. Track days take place in the customer’s own car and require minimal interaction with staff since registration and sign-on can be done electronically in advance.

Goodwood has put measures in place to maintain the safety of all customers and staff, including the enforcement of social distancing rules. These include limiting the capacity on both the golf courses and track to ensure customers are spaced at least two metres apart from each other, strict cleaning regimes and making PPE equipment available to staff where needed.

Golf At Goodwood General Manager Gary Beves said: “We were delighted that our members came together to raise money for such a fantastic cause. We knew demand for the first tee time would be high and thought that a raffle amongst members would add some healthy competition whilst raising much needed funds for the NHS.

"We can’t wait to welcome members back and we are so thankful to all of the team who have been working whilst we have been closed. The courses look great and it’s going to be a busy few weeks for us ahead!"

There's no news yet on when racing will be able to be staged at the racecourse but Goodwood has already lost its May fixtures and its Three Friday Nights music/racing events.