15/05/2020
Following changes to restrictions put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Isle of Man Government has continued the process of bringing sports and recreation back online.
Bowls and coarse fishing will restart on Saturday followed by archery, shooting and paddle-sports on Sunday.
Their return follows successful work with sporting associations and clubs to produce sensible and credible plans on how they will can be enjoyed safely as well as Public Health’s approval of risk assessments and control measures, with the release of guidelines for each sport by the Isle of Man Government.
Just like recreational fishing and golf the activities can only be played on your own or with members of the same household and social distancing rules must be followed. Anyone displaying COVID-19 symptoms, sharing a house with someone displaying symptoms, or required to self-isolate should not take part.
Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Sport, Education and Culture, said:
‘I am delighted to see the next wave of sports returning and I hope it will provide a much needed boost to the wellbeing of all those who enjoy them. We are working closely with Public Health, clubs and the governing body of each sport to ensure people can again enjoy the sports they love.’
Bowls, archery and shooting will restart for club members and people who arrange prior permission to play on Saturday. People are asked to avoid all unnecessary contact with people from other households and wash their hands before and after the activity.
Anglers also need prior permission to go coarse fishing at the Island’s only facility, Sunset Lakes in Peel. Once permission is granted a time slot will be granted to access a designated platform and people can fish alone or with up to three people from the same household.
Any equipment used must be sterilised after use and not shared with others.
Paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing will also restart for people with their own equipment. People are asked to consider their own personal fitness and experience level prior to taking to the water, limit their paddle to two hours or less, and maintain the limited distance from the shore. People will also be allowed to use Mooragh Lake but spaces will be limited and can be arranged through the Venture Centre.
The Isle of Man Government would like to thank the sport’s governing bodies and the Management team at Sunset Lakes for helping to create the guidelines.
Further sports are also being considered and announcements will be made over the coming days and weeks as guidance details are finalised.