A Golf for All programme was launched this week, with the hope that it can attract more people to take up the sport.  Cork Sports Partnership have teamed up with Cork City Council, Confederation of Golf in Ireland, Prince Clinic and Mahon Golf Course to offer adults with a disability the opportunity to get involved in a four week Golf For All programme.  The weekly sessions are suitable for beginners or anyone who has been away from the golf course for some time.  The weekly sessions will be delivered by Irish Amateur Open Champion Peter O’Keeffe.  Golf For All will began on Tuesday May 22nd for four weeks and continues each Tuesday from 6pm – 7pm at Mahon Golf Club.  Pádraig Healy is the Sports Inclusion Disability Officer with Cork Sports Partnership and he has been the driving force behind the programme.  “We are really excited to offer adults with a disability the opportunity to play golf for the first time or support players return to the game with this four week Golf For All programme” said Healy.  “The programme is open to adults with Intellectual, physical and sensory disabilities.”

Golf fitness coach and 2017 Irish Amateur Open champion Peter O’Keeffe said “I am delighted to be involved in this project and to have the opportunity to promote golf to a wider group and give people with a disability the chance to enjoy the physical and psychological benefits of our wonderful game.”  Registration is just €20 for the four week programme. A few places still remain, to register contact Pádraig Healy, Sports Inclusion Disability Officer with Cork Sports Partnership at phealy@corksports.ie or 086 7947923.  Padraig hopes that this programme is just the beginning and he’s actively looking for volunteers, both golfers and non-golfers to join in future programmes.  Golf has had a long association with Special Olympics with several club operating in Cork, and many of those have a strong affiliation with their local clubs.  Another initiative to support inclusion is getting underway this month as Tralee IT are backing a new programme aimed at supporting those with Autism.  #GameON Autism Golf Programme is aimed at developing life skills, encouraging social interaction, and promoting healthy living through golf for individuals on the autism spectrum.  Each session is designed to help build self-esteem and confidence in a fun, welcoming and supportive environment; encouraging participants to learn golf skills while practicing specific autism learning concepts.  The initiative has been piloted and rolled out by Tralee Institute of Technology in conjunction with PGA Professionals and volunteers.  A #GameOn Autism Golf Training Seminar and Clinic being held in The Great National, Ballykisteen Golf Club, Tipperary on Tuesday 29th May, 9am-3pm. The seminar is relevant for PGA Professionals, exercise leaders, PE Teachers, golf & autism advocates.