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As golfers age, strength, flexibility, range of motion and
vision age also. There are key areas that can cause older
golfers problems. There are several adaptive golf products
that can help keep golfers playing longer and maybe even help
them beat younger golfers.
Presently, only 10% of persons with some disability play
golf. However, 35% of individuals with disabilities not currently
playing golf, are interested in learning.
Adaptive Golf Programs
First Swing golf program was developed by the National
Amputee Golf Association. NAGA Executive Director Bob Wilson
came to Erie to direct the two-day training seminar and worked
with Hudson to get the Shriners Hospital program off the ground.
About 15 Shriners patients and five staff members were part
of the initial training program. They learned about grips,
stance/balance and swinging the club, taking their various
physical challenges into consideration. Participants learned
to use adaptive equipment and employ wheelchair techniques
as well.
Kernan Hospital's adaptive golf program has offered
golfing opportunities to persons with disabilities since 1991.
The centerpiece of Kernan's adaptive golf program is a 2,400-square-foot
putting green that has paved pathways leading up to it, making
it accessible to people who use wheelchairs.
New Adaptive Golf Equipment And Merchandise
Adaptive Golf Equipment Companies
- Upright Golf
Upright Golf produces the Assistive Golf Stick, designed
specifically for golfers that play or practice from a seated
position. Upright Golf also sells adaptive putters and a
ball retriever attachment that allows golfers to remain
upright, eliminating the game's repetitive bending and stooping.
- Sure Grip Sports Glove
This adaptive sports glove is made with special grasping
capabilities, including a strong, Velcro strap for grasping
a golf club, baseball bat, or any object. The company will
build up artificial fingers into the glove, if needed. See
site for details.
- Access to Recreation
Scroll down on left side for golf and many other sports.
Clever Clubs®, sold here, are a line of golf clubs for
people that use a wheelchair; available in a Shorty set
for use from the side.
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Florida Golf's City of the Month
