Reopening Amid Coronavirus: Riverside County Gets A Preview

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — When golfers and tennis players got the exciting news Monday that their favorite sports were being allowed again in Riverside County despite the coronavirus "stay-home" order, they knew there would be restrictions.

Since then, the county along with some cities, as well as golf and tennis clubs and centers, are spelling out the rules of modified play in detail. The easing of restrictions offers a glimpse at just how life might be for the rest of us until a vaccine for the virus is approved.

For example, golfers can resume play if their favorite course is open. Palm Springs is considering whether it should reopen courses even though the county has given a green light (more is expected on that Thursday). For courses that are open in the county, social distancing requirements must be observed by players, with no more than four to a group — and everyone has to wear face coverings, per the county order. No caddies are allowed. Clubhouse dining, as well as any other in-house affairs, remain prohibited.

For tennis players, the restrictions are even greater. Tennis requires good cardio vascular fitness. The sport involves a great deal of sprinting, and even elite pros gasp for air on long points. Per the county's order, however, tennis players must wear face coverings.

Several tennis facilities are following the U.S. Tennis Association's stringent COVID-19 lead. Murrieta Tennis Club announced Wednesday it was reopening, but laid out strict rules per the USTA's suggestion, including that each player must bring their own can of balls and no else can touch them. All benches are being removed from courts to prevent players from accidentally sitting too close to each other on changeovers.

Beyond golf and tennis, the county has approved drive-up religious services — a concept that would have seem so foreign earlier this year.

On Wednesday, Gov. Gavin Newsom eased restrictions on "important" surgeries that had been canceled or postponed due to coronavirus. Riverside County residents are still waiting to hear from local health officials about what that means. Newsom's announcement also begs the question: When can Riverside County residents begin resuming preventive health, dental and optometry appointments — and how will those checkups be conducted?

During a news briefing Wednesday, Secretary of California Health and Human Services, Dr. Mark Ghaly, said it best when referring to the economy's reopening. "It’s not a switch, it’s a dimmer" that is constantly being adjusted.

For answers to questions concerning state and local orders, read this recently updated county FAQ.

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