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Topgolf To Reopen First Location In Oklahoma City On May 11

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After closing all of its U.S. venues for almost two months to combat the spread of the coronavirus, Topgolf has announced the location for its first reopening: Oklahoma City on May 11.

The golf entertainment giant is implementing strict requirements for the health and safety of customers and associates, including protective barriers between hitting bays, disinfecting equipment and other high-touch items between every group, and incorporating social distancing markers and mandates.

While the measures will first be introduced at the Oklahoma City venue next week, they will be required at all of Topgolf’s 56 U.S. locations as they gradually reopen.

Topgolf’s reopening plan comes as golf courses in all 50 states have been approved to resume play, cleared by state or local governments as a safe and healthy outdoor activity during the ongoing pandemic. While a golf course has an average footprint of 150 acres that results in natural physical distancing, Topgolf’s three-story, socially- and technologically-focused driving ranges are more confined.

But Topgolf is implementing extensive safeguards, starting with free online reservations to minimize crowds in the lobby. 

Guests will be also be asked to wait in their cars and not congregate if the venue is at capacity, with text messages indicating when a hitting bay is ready. Six-foot social distancing measures will be in place throughout the lobbies, with a safety barrier at the check-in desk to mitigate person-to-person contact. All guests will be informed of the new safety measures on arrival.

While guests are encouraged to bring their own golf clubs, complimentary equipment will be provided and disinfected after every group. All golf balls, game screens and frequently touched bay surfaces will be similarly disinfected, while plates, silverware and condiments will be removed from tables and only brought to guests when seated.

Because the tees in the side-by-side hitting bays are spaced 11 feet apart, 8-foot by 8-foot dividers will be installed between every bay for added comfort and safety. No more than six guests will be permitted in a bay.

Topgolf employees are required to wear masks at all times and gloves when handling food and drinks. The venues will also conduct daily health screening of associates, with staggered shift check-ins to prevent overcrowding.

“When you return to Topgolf we know it will feel different at first, but we’re also confident that you will recognize the fun experience you know and love,” Topgolf Entertainment CEO Dolf Berle said. “Let’s play, and play safely.”

Topgolf shut down all of its venues on March 18.

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