Adapting golf for individuals with disabilities has been a hot topic for disability rights over the past decade. At the turn of the millennium, there was a battle between Casey Martin and the PGA Tour over his use of a golf cart.
Currently government and private courses are under fire for not providing accessible, single-rider carts. The good news: people with disabilities keep winning when it comes to golf access. Now with more awareness, specialized golf cars, instruction, and disability-friendly policies at golf courses throughout the United States, there are fewer excuses not to play.
Adaptive Equipment is Key
When it comes to adaptive sports, equipment and specialized instruction are what make it happen. One of the most exciting pieces of new equipment on the market is the Paragolfer. It was designed by Anthony Netto, is powered by Otto Bock, and is sold in the U.S. by www.legsdontwork.com. The Paragolfer is incredible for individuals with mobility impairments; the upright position allows you to use off-the-rack golf clubs and promotes many health benefits due to the standing position and range of motion. This is therapy and recreation in motion!
“Chucker” Golf: For those who have a difficult time hitting the long drive, chuck the little white ball instead. Cost is $34.95; it’s from Access to Recreation; log on and then select golf. My wife enjoys playing golf with me now, and is able to consistently chuck the ball 140 yards. Also available at Access to Recreation are a variety of clubs for playing from your wheelchair or single-rider style golf carts.
Visual Impairment: GPS golf units take the guesswork out of being a coach for golfers who are blind. Look up the distance, select the correct club, and swing away. With this technology the coach just has to focus on putting the club head behind the ball and, of course, keeping track of those lower scores. A few excellent choices can be made between $200-$400 from Sky Caddie or Upro.
Tee it up: Bending over may be the most difficult part of the game for many individuals with disabilities. A couple of nice products are available to set the tee, pick up a ball, or place a marker down without ever bending over. USA Golf Products, Inc offers the pro master or the EZ tee. If the only thing stopping you from playing is the inability to bend over, check out these adaptive products.
Wheelchair-Accessible Golf Courses
Whether you are looking to make your course accessible or asking for access at a local course, the National Alliance for Accessible Golf has the information you are looking for. They have two tool kits, one for golfers and one for golf course owners and operators. The information was designed by professional organizations, including the USGA, PGA, LPGA, NGCOA and more to answer many questions on “why” and “how” golf courses can be and should be made accessible www.accessgolf.org.
Adaptive Golf Organizations
Depending on your personal disability, many organizations are available to assist you in realizing your ability to play the game of golf:
National Amputee Golf Association
United States Blind Golf Association
US Deaf Golf
National Alliance for Accessible Golf
"Golf, is a good walk spoiled." — Mark Twain
See Related Articles
Discover how veterans with disabilities are healing through adaptive golf, in PGA Programs Utilize Golf as Recreational Therapy For Vets.
See Challenged Athletes Foundation Gives Adaptive Sports to Disability Community to learn more about an organization that is helping athletes with disabilities find their way back into the sports they love.
