Rustic Canyon now walking only (w/ exceptions)

[Mark Kiely]

New policy announced at Rustic Canyon. Probably won't impact too many people here, because I think most here prefer to walk anyway. Interesting, though. This pops up when you click on Book A Tee Time:


ATTENTION GOLFERS!The course will be walking only until further notice. Exceptions will be made for golfers 60 years of age or older and individuals with an approved doctor’s note. Our apologies for any inconvenience. Thank you

[Tom_Doak]

Is that just a COVID safety measure?  Or do you think they're trying it out now to see if it could stick?

[Pete_Pittock]

Their website also says electric carts are available, first come first serve. No guarantees.
Probably fleet management brought on by Covid 19 restrictions.

[Steve Lang]

   They could simply be limiting traffic to reduce turf compaction... 3 or 4 carts a tee time can have some impact but I'm imagining its perhaps related to cart rental terms

[Tal Oz]

I'm almost positive it's a COVID safety measure. LA city golf emails have been drastic and erratic here lately. A few weeks ago we got an email effective immediately no golf with anyone outside your household and if you book a single you have to pay for the foursome. Last week we got an email saying back to booking normally with golfers outside your household.
I'm playing rustic tomorrow and Tuesday, will report back from the guys at the shop. For what it's worth, rustic is booked solid for 2+ weeks and rounds are taking upwards of 5 hours even midweek.

[Tal Oz]

Photo of the sign at the pro shop now, however when I played on Saturday there were multiple groups in carts. People in their 20s and 30s riding. Not really sure how much enforcing they're really doing.
https://imgur.com/a/nwNLjEa

[Anthony_Nysse]

Is that just a COVID safety measure?  Or do you think they're trying it out now to see if it could stick?

Are they a bermudagrass golf course? If so, could it be to protect the bermudagrass more during the winter months when its not growing?

[John Kavanaugh]

Photo of the sign at the pro shop now, however when I played on Saturday there were multiple groups in carts. People in their 20s and 30s riding. Not really sure how much enforcing they're really doing.
https://imgur.com/a/nwNLjEa

That is a beautiful sign. Did Tommy print that up for them?


60 is an odd cut off age. I'm midwest 60 and am relieved, if I was L.A. 60 I might have to speak to someone.

[Jim_Coleman]

  If it's not Covid related, they wouldn't apologize.

[John Kavanaugh]

The CDC has established 65 as old.

[archie_struthers]

 


Seems like a cogent preemptive strike in a crazy place like Cali!

[Pete_Pittock]

The big loophole is a letter from a doctor.  Some non-mask wearers use it.  I assume people who want to play golf, but not walk, will do likewise.  Not that I am advocating against the letter because I have one (my free-range is about 300 yards).

[jeffwarne]

Has any Doctor ever given a note REQUIRING a person to walk?
Would seem more useful...

[R_Paulis]

As any tee time is really hard to obtain in the area, RC's no cart policy has relieved some pressure so it's a bit easier to get on the course.


It was a bit of a surprise when we were denied a cart during our semi weekly round. Apparently, it was a Covid related banishment by way of the County. Although, it was also shared the course was really beat up by cart traffic...


As a "GPS behavioral pattern nerd" it would be interesting to see the phone tracks of walkers vs carters at RC. I do see heavier trafficked short cuts being generated in the chaparral and dry river bed. Not surprisingly, #14 tee to fairway is the most apparent.

[Tal Oz]

RP, I haven’t noticed it being any easier to get out. Fully booked up at least two weeks out anytime I check.


I agree with you about the foot traffic being higher on 11 and 14 in the wash from tee to fairway. Given the incessant play at rustic since the Covid break, the course is in spectacular shape. December has become one of my favorite months for golf in LA where everything is firm, the Bermuda is dormant, and the weather is usually temperate.

[R_Paulis]

RC reportedly has carts available to all again with dividers between the occupants. Olivas Links, also in Ventura County, has this cart arrangement. I can assume Ventura County covid rules have put this rule into effect. Surprisingly, there are other Ventura County courses without cart passenger separators...