Yelverton Golf Club

SECRETARY’S NEWS

Winter Trolley Rules Review

Winter Trolley Rules have been in place since Monday 7th November 2011. Namely, electric PowaKaddys with Winter Wheels and non-motorised Trolleys with hedgehog wheels may be used; those aged 70 and over, and those members with a current medical certificate may also continue to use their electric trolleys.

Following the recent very wet spell, when considerable damage was done to pathways and walkways, a Total Trolley Ban has been in operation.

On reflection and review, some minor changes have been identified that will improve the process. At present, the stage of a normal Trolley Ban (with exceptions), can only be reduced, i.e. number of trolleys in use, by implementing a Total Trolley Ban. There are times when a stage between the two, could reduce trolley usage sufficiently to reduce wear and erosion issues. This would also be seen to be fair to members who need to use a trolley in order to play golf.

However, there will be times when risk of wear and sustained damage is higher and a Total Trolley ban needs to be enforced to protect the course.

Members should be aware of the following revised stages of Trolley usage:

Stage 1 Winter Trolley Usage

Age, Medical Exemptions & *Winter Wheels only

Stage 2 Trolley Ban

Age and Medical Exemptions Only

Stage 3 Total Trolley Ban

No Trolleys at all

* Winter Wheels – Powakaddy winter wheels and currently Pull Trolleys with Hedgehog wheels.

Course conditions will be reviewed on a daily basis and notified by signage and website Notices. Members are advised to bring light bags in case there should be a form of Trolley Ban.

In the meantime, to reduce unnecessary wear/damage and to ensure continued trolley usage, members must route their trolleys outside the fenced / taped off areas, through recognised pathways and avoid any muddy / damaged areas.

To reduce potential damage to the Course, it would appreciated if those with an exemption considered using a lightweight pull trolley or electric PowaKaddy owners with an exemption considered using Winter Wheels.

Members should be aware that the use of hedgehog wheels is under review. Whilst they are allowed this Winter 2011/2012, there is a doubt that they will be considered suitable for use in Winter 2012/2013. Members will be informed in due course of any changes to this policy.

Steve West
General Manager
14 December 2011

Note: Medical exemptions - whilst it is appreciated that most of those with a medical exemption have them for long term conditions, some exemptions were granted for short term conditions and, to be fair to all, those Members who are over their short term condition are asked to return their exempt badges to the General Manager.