
Sun Protection at Drax: Playing Smarter, Playing Safer
At Drax Golf Club, we believe that enjoying our course should go hand-in-hand with looking after your health. With the risk of skin cancer rising significantly in the UK over the last three decades, we are committed to raising awareness about the importance of sun protection for all our staff, members, and visitors.
The "Slip! Slap! Swing!" Approach
We support the principles of the Slip! Slap! Swing! campaign, encouraging all members and visitors to adopt these essential habits every time they visit our woodland course.
-
Slip on a shirt: Choose lightweight, long-sleeved, and UV-protective clothing where possible.
-
Slap on a hat: A wide-brimmed hat provides crucial shade for your face, ears, and neck.
-
Slap on sunscreen: Use SPF30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen as your primary defence.
-
Slide on sunglasses: Protect your eyes with quality UV-rated eyewear.
-
Swing safely: Stay hydrated, seek shade, and monitor the time you spend in direct UV light, especially between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm.
Practical Tips for the Course
Beyond the basics, here is how you can manage your protection during your round at Drax:
-
Timing is Everything: Apply your first coat of sunscreen at least 20 minutes before teeing off to allow it to fully absorb.
-
The "Halfway" Reapply: Reapply every 2 hours. A great trick is to reapply at the 9th hole. Using a sunscreen applicator keeps your hands clean and ensures your grip remains secure and grease-free.
-
Precision Protection: Use a "chubby" sunblock stick for targeted areas like the nose, ears, and lips, which are often missed by lotions.
-
Be Skin Savvy: Check your skin monthly for any new moles or changes to existing ones. If you spot anything unusual, visit your GP immediately. Early detection is the most effective form of defence.
Why It Matters
Playing at Drax is about strategy, precision, and enjoying our natural surroundings. By being proactive with your sun safety, you ensure that you can continue to enjoy the game we love for years to come.
For more in-depth resources and to learn about becoming "Skin Savvy," we recommend the full range of advice from the Melanoma Fund’s Slip! Slap! Swing! campaign.
