USGA introduce championship for disabled golfers starting in 2022
The US Adaptive Open Championship will be held at Pinehurst and it will play host to the best disabled golfers in the world.
The USGA have announced the introduction of the US Adaptive Open Championship for the best disabled golfers in the world.
The No.6 course at Pinehurst will host the event from July 18-20 in 2022. The USGA have also said that Pinehurst will host the 2023 renewal well.
"Since 1895, our championships have provided the world’s best players with an opportunity to showcase their skills on a global stage, compete for a national championship and achieve their dreams," said USGA Senior Managing Director of Championships John Bodenhamer.
"After years of planning and delays caused by the global pandemic, we are proud to bring that same opportunity to the adaptive golf community through this championship and to do so at Pinehurst, our second home.
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"We believe this effort will spur participation for golfers with disabilities and hope it inspires others in the industry to make the game and its competitions more welcoming to all."
The historic site of Pinehurst was chosen for its physical properties that suit the capabilities of disabled golfers such as shallow bunker entrances, tee-to-green cart paths and few forced carries over hazards.
The idea of creating a championship for disabled golfers was first brought up during the 2017 USGA Annual Meeting. The then-CEO Mike Davis wanted action within four years, but the Covid-19 pandemic caused a delay.
The 54-hole event will be open to men and women who have a physical impairment, sensory impairment or intellectual impairment.
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They must also possess a WR4GD Pass and a handicap in the World Handicap System in order to compete. The field will be limited to 96 players and applications for entry are set to begin in February.
The US Adaptive Open Championship has become the USGA's 15th national championship.
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