'COVID-19' Safe Zone... "Mini Tours Are Thriving"

US Arizona's 'Golf-Friendly Policy' Spurs Excitement for Both Women's Cactus Tour and Men's Outlaw Tour

World ranking 136th Callum Hill.

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] "Mini tours are still thriving."

While professional golf tours worldwide have been completely suspended due to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), mini tours are held every week in Arizona, USA. These events cover prize money and operating costs through player entry fees. They are mainly participated in by players dreaming of the big leagues or veterans who have been pushed out of the PGA Tour and LPGA Tour. Interestingly, the number of tournaments has recently increased.

Mike Brown, head of the Cactus Tour (women's mini tour), told Golf Channel, "Last year we held 3 events in 4 weeks, but now we are running tournaments for 9 consecutive weeks." The Outlaw Tour (men's mini tour) is also expected to add 3 more events by May. Top Peterson, head of the Outlaw Tour, emphasized, "Golf-hungry fans want these events to be held," adding, "It is a good thing to have something to watch amid the COVID-19 situation."

Mini tours usually wind down their tournaments gradually around mid-March when professional golf tours start to resume. This is because the increase in first and second-tier tours reduces golf fans' interest. However, this year, due to COVID-19, the spotlight is actually shining on mini tours. Earlier this month, Calum Hill (Scotland), ranked 136th in the world, made news by winning the Outlaw Tour Velad Founders Cup. It was notable that a player ranked within the top 100 in the world participated in a mini tour.

Arizona's "golf-friendly policy" is further strengthening the atmosphere. Golf courses have been designated as essential businesses, just like hospitals, pharmacies, and grocery stores, vital to residents' daily lives. The mini tour organizers claim, "We are responding to Governor Doug Ducey's consideration with thorough quarantine measures." They have significantly reduced the number of participating players and minimized player contact by eliminating handshakes. Peterson confidently stated, "There has not been a single case of COVID-19 infection among participating players so far."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.