Golf pros in the Pembina Valley weren't sure that there would be much of a golfing season at all but were pleasantly surprised when they found out golf courses are included in phase one of the province's reopening plan.

"Golf is definitely the one game that you can go out and play and maintain the social distancing rules that we have in place," says Winkler Pro Greg Hesom.

The Winkler Centennial Golf Course says that the most important thing is for people to make sure they don't come if they are not feeling well or show COVID-19 symptoms. As well, anyone hoping to come should get a tee time beforehand, and use different carts unless they're from the same household.

"At all times maintaining social distance. You can't touch the flagstick but we have an answer to that as well. We have a little device built that you can pull up with your putter and that gets the ball out of the hole. And obviously things like no rakes or water coolers that would be shared contact points out on the course," he says.

Playing through is allowed as long as people proceed cautiously and with proper distance.

Hesom says, "getting outside and being able to exercise is hugely important. We've all been lacking some social ability in not being able to get together with friends. Getting outdoors . . . is huge for our mental health."

He adds that Monday through to Wednesday (May 4-6) will be for members only, and the general public is welcome from Thursday (May 7) and onward.

Tee times can be found on the golf course's website.