Brexit and Golf

Believe it or not, there is already some absurdity being mentioned (usually on Twitter) when it comes to how the decision by the United Kingdom to leave the European Union will affect the game of golf.   So, I thought I would list some things on how the Brexit will (or will not) affect the golf industry.

1.  The US will still play Europe in the Ryder Cup--Even though the UK is leaving the European Union, the Ryder Cup will still be staged between players from the two continents.  Technically, the UK is on the European continent...they are just leaving the economic and governing structure known as the EU.  So, for all of those people hoping the US could go back to dominating the Ryder Cup by just playing English/UK players....think again.

2.  In the foreseeable short term, the cost of playing golf and traveling to the UK will decrease--The British Pound fell to a 30-year low against the US Dollar immediately this morning upon the UK referendum results.  The cost for golf trips, greens fees, hotels...really anything in the UK will immediately decrease in cost for US travelers because of the exchange rates.  Likewise, any products you like t purchase from the UK (Twining's Tea, HP Sauce, etc.) will also take less out of your pocket. Donald Trump already said Brexit will bring more people to his renovated Turnberry...you may not like him, but he is right on this issue.

3.  Travel between Ireland and Northern Ireland MAY be affected--Ireland is part of the European Union and there has not been a border check between there and Northern Ireland since the Troubles.  With the UK (which Northern Ireland is a part of) out of the European Union, there is talk of adding a border check at the IRE/NI border.  Now, you can stay in Dublin and drive straight up to play courses like Royal County Down or Ardglass in about 2 hours.  With a border crossing and customs check...you better add at least a 1/2 hour to this trip...making your golf day-trip just a bit longer and bothersome.  Stay tuned on this issue.

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