Golf is one of the most inclusive sports there is. Golfers with physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities play at every level, from casual rounds with friends to international competitions. The handicap system lets players of all abilities compete fairly, the pace of the game allows people to play at their own speed, and adapted equipment and modified rules make the game accessible to many more people. Here's an introduction to adaptive golf.
Who plays adaptive golf?
- Golfers with limb differences or amputations, standing or seated.
- Wheelchair users and golfers with limited mobility.
- Golfers with visual impairments, often playing with a guide or coach who helps with alignment and description.
- Golfers with intellectual disabilities.
- Golfers with neurological conditions, such as those affected by stroke, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease.
- Golfers with hearing impairments.
- Golfers with short stature.
Benefits
- Physical activity outdoors, at your own pace.
- Social connection and community. Read golf and mental health.
- Independence and confidence.
- Fair competition through the handicap system. Read the World Handicap System explained.
Equipment
Mobility
- Single-rider adaptive carts allow golfers with limited mobility to drive onto fairways and, on some courses, close to or onto greens without damaging the turf. Some have swivel or lifting seats so golfers can play from a seated or supported standing position.
- Standard carts and trolleys help many golfers with limited stamina. Read walking vs riding a golf cart.
Clubs and grips
- Shorter or longer clubs for seated golfers or different body proportions.
- Lightweight clubs and flexible shafts for golfers with limited strength. Read the golf shaft flex guide.
- Larger or specially shaped grips for golfers with limited hand function. Read how to regrip golf clubs.
- Gripping aids and prosthetic attachments for golfers with limb differences.
- One-handed swing techniques for golfers who play with one arm.
Other aids
- Ball pick-ups and tee-up devices reduce bending.
- Bright-coloured balls and high-contrast targets help some golfers with visual impairments.
A clubfitter or adaptive golf coach can help you find the right equipment. Read custom golf club fitting.
The rules
The Rules of Golf include modifications for players with disabilities. Examples include:
- Golfers with visual impairments may have assistance with alignment from a guide.
- Golfers who use mobility devices have rules covering how those devices are used.
- Golfers with certain disabilities may use assistive devices, such as some anchoring or support methods, that are not normally allowed.
Check the current modified rules for players with disabilities, and ask the committee before a competition. Read conforming golf equipment.
Getting started
- Contact a disability golf organisation or your national golf federation, which can point you to adaptive programmes, coaches and accessible courses.
- Find a coach with adaptive experience. Read golf lessons: choosing an instructor.
- Start at a driving range or short course, where you can learn at your own pace. Read first time at the driving range and par-3 and short courses.
- Ask clubs about accessibility: paths, buildings, carts, toilets and parking.
- Get a handicap when you're ready, to play in competitions.
Competitions
Adaptive golfers compete at club, regional, national and international level, with events for different impairment groups and integrated events alongside other golfers. Some professional tours have staged events for golfers with disabilities, and there are world rankings for golfers with disabilities. Read amateur golf competitions explained.
Tips for clubs and playing partners
- Ask, don't assume: golfers with disabilities know what help they need.
- Make facilities accessible: paths, ramps, parking and buildings.
- Allow adaptive carts where possible, with guidance on where they can go.
- Welcome new golfers through inclusive programmes and taster sessions.
- Treat everyone as a golfer first. Read golf etiquette 101.
Frequently asked questions
Can people in wheelchairs play golf?
Yes. Many wheelchair users play golf, often with single-rider adaptive carts that allow play from a seated or supported standing position.
Can blind golfers play golf?
Yes. Golfers with visual impairments play with a guide who helps with alignment, distance and description.
Are there golf competitions for disabled golfers?
Yes, at club, national and international level, along with world rankings for golfers with disabilities.
Do the rules change for golfers with disabilities?
There are modified rules for players with disabilities. Check the current version and speak to the committee before competing.
The bottom line
Golf welcomes golfers of all abilities. With adapted equipment, modified rules, experienced coaches and supportive clubs, people with a wide range of disabilities enjoy the game socially and competitively. If you're interested, contact a disability golf organisation, book a lesson and start at your own pace. For more on taking up the game, read golf for beginners: the complete guide.