High heat, no carts at Scioto
U.S. Senior Open at Scioto: 156 players 50+ walking in high heat – temps near 100°F, heat index 107; carts banned.
It’s not the heat, it’s the humanity. Or in the case of the blistering U.S. Senior Open, perhaps the lack of humanity?
Temperatures reached the high 90s July 1 at Scioto Country Club, with a heat index – air temperature combined with relative humidity – of 107. Similar temps are expected to stick around through July 4, with a slight reprieve (88!) forecast for the July 5 final round.
But even if the thermometer soars into the triple digits, the 156 players, ages 50 and up, teeing it up at the national senior championship will be hoofing it up and down the sun-baked fairways because … no riding carts are allowed.
The USGA, which has never suspended or postponed a championship due to high heat, believes riding in a powered cart spoils the integrity of the sport. The organization insists golf is meant to be played on foot. The exception is for medical exemptions, of which there are none this week. Thus, 72-year-old Jay Haas in his long pants will be walking the 5 miles or so that gets him through 18 holes.
As will his caddie. At least spectators attending the championship won’t have to tote a 40-pound golf bag.
The USGA has issued how-to information for helping combat the heat and humidity, urging fans to wear light-colored clothing and a hat, and also using an umbrella for shade.
Complementary water is available at five hydration stations throughout the course, and fans may bring one empty water bottle (32 ounces or smaller, no glass) to refill on-site.
First aid stations are set up on the front and back nine, as well as a wellness pavilion. If feeling faint, dizzy or unusually fatigued, fans should seek immediate medical attention.
Sports columnist Rob Oller can be reached at [email protected] and on X.com at @rollerCD.
