FORE!! Are you covered for a hole-in-one?

Newbie Golfers Warned as Golf’s Popularity in the UK Booms

As the popularity of golf continues to surge in the UK, new players have been warned to make sure they are covered out on the course.

Insurance experts from Quotezone.co.uk have told new players taking up the sport that it is important to check they are insured to help avoid any costly penalties.

Golf has seemingly been going through a transformation of late. Celebrity and influencer endorsements, the emergence of luxury golf resorts, and the rise in popularity of trendy apparel and fashion, are all contributing to the sports more modern image. 

Recent research conducted by the Professional Golfer’s Association (PGA) has found that 22.4 million adults across the UK and Ireland are consuming some form of golf.*

These numbers also include ‘non-traditional’ forms of the game, such as adventure golf and simulator golf.  Non-traditional forms of ‘nightlife’ golf are contributing to the increased popularity, as corporate events and stag dos embrace the new culture.

For traditional on-course golf, 4.9 million adults across the UK and Ireland are currently playing full or short course golf. This equates to 9% of the adult population.

Whilst these numbers are high, a lot of casual players may not realise that they are playing without any insurance and the dangers that could lead to. 

The savings experts at Quotezone say golf insurance is an essential part of the game, especially for beginners, as it can protect players if anything were to go wrong. 

Insurance policies can cover equipment, public liability, third-party property damage and even hole-in-one cover.

Quotezone.co.uk CEO Greg Wilson says: “Although it’s not required by law, golf insurance can provide peace of mind for those trying to relax and play the sport, especially for beginners.

“Players who are members at a club may have some insurance included in their fees, but additional insurance is still worth considering, whether you’re a member or a casual player.

“Accidents can happen, and you don’t want to be in a situation where one of your wayward shots causes an injury. Most insurance should include public liability for this scenario. 

“Equipment can also be expensive and regular home insurance cover may not suffice, especially if any damage or theft takes place away from the home. 

“You might also think you’ll never hit a hole-in-one, but a lot of insurance cover actually includes hole-in-one cover just in case. It’s an unofficial tradition in golf to buy everyone a round of drinks after hitting a hole-in-one, especially in tournaments and events, so it’s an extra bit of protection if you’re ever stuck with a large bar tab.”

Quotezone helps over 4 million users a year compare and find savings on all sorts of insurance and personal finance products, such as golf, car and motorhome insurance. 

Reference:

*https://www.ipsos.com/sites/default/files/ct/news/documents/2023-10/golf-for-all-2023-pga-ipsos.pdf