The Inaugural NSW Inclusive Championship will be held at Pacific Dunes Golf Club from May 3-4, 2021.
The Championship is open to players with a physical, sensory or intellectual impairment based on the International Golf Federation (IGF) definitions of impairment.
Intending competitors can find more information on these definitions here.
The world rankings for golfers with a disability are open to men and women with a GA handicap up to 54 across three ranking categories; Stroke and Nett (Handicap 18.4 or below) and Stableford (Handicap 18.5+).
Sydney-based Shane Luke [pictured], an above knee amputee who’s ranked No.1 in Australia, told the Port Stephens Examiner he was looking forward to taking on the best ladies and men of all abilities.
“I have played once previously at Pacific Dunes and I am looking forward to returning there. I have no great expectations but I will be out to win, along with enjoying the company and supporting the event,” he said.
“I want to congratulate the organisers for putting on such a tournament and my hope is that it will become a more frequent event. It provides a great opportunity for new players to have a try at golf, as well as building a pathway for people with disabilities wanting to improve their game.”
Christian Hamilton, senior manager of inclusion at Golf Australia, said the governing body was delighted to assist Golf NSW in delivering this important event on the World Rankings for Golfers with Disability schedule.
“We are thrilled to have Golf NSW lead the development of this event and add further strength to the Australasian All Abilities schedule,” said Hamilton.
“NSW has always had strong participation through partner organisations Special Olympics, Amputee Golf NSW, Blind Golf NSW, Deaf Golf NSW and Empower Golf. We are excited to see this event grow over the coming years.”
Graeme Phillipson, general manager of golf, Golf NSW, echoed Hamilton’s comments.
“Participation in the sport by anyone, regardless of their ability, age or gender is critical to the growth of our great game. The addition of an all-abilities championship on the Golf NSW Calendar for 2021 and beyond is significant for Golf NSW and the sport across the state,” said Phillipson.
