Blind Golf Championships help raise awareness

Brad Halyk, general manager at The Greens at Renton, welcomes visually impaired golfers to the Ontario Provincials Championship on August 1st.

Alex Hunt 

Advocate Correspondent

Blind and visually impaired golfers from across Canada gathered in Norfolk County early in August for a week of championship tournaments.

The Blind Golf Canada Championships returned to The Green at Renton where visually impaired golfers played in the Ontario Provincials Championship, August 1-2 (Stableford format); the ISPS Handa Canadian Open, August 4-5; and concluded with the International Blind Golf Association World Championships, August 7-8.

Golfers from 15 countries were expected to compete on the 27-hole course this year, demonstrating the growing international reach of the sport. Provincial, national and international players, along with their individual guides, played in their designated classification levels to ensure a fair shot for everyone.

“For an event on this scale, we need all the help we can get,” said Laurie Montegomery, volunteer coordinator on the Blind Golf Canada Committee. “Our volunteers are the heart and soul for this tournament. Seeing the enthusiasm grow from just a handful in 2022 to around 40 people this year is just incredible.

“These folks don’t just stand on the sidelines, they’re out on the course as spotters and caddies, guiding players every step of the way. Their dedication truly elevates the experience for everyone involved and we couldn’t do it without them.”

Players register in three categories based on their vision level. The B1 classified players have no light perception in their vision. Players in the B2 classification inherit approximately 5 per cent of their vision, and golfers in B3 can use 10 per cent of their vision. 

“Our ultimate goal is to raise awareness for blind golf in the community, increase membership and grow the volunteer base,” said Joan Lang, communication coordinator on the Blind Golf Canada Committee. “Without guides, many players can’t participate. We want more people to know they can be a guide and help the golfers navigate the courses so they can keep playing the game they love.

“Golf is absolutely possible for people with vision loss, and with the right support, it can thrive in more communities. It’s about breaking down barriers and showing that blind golf can be fun, accessible, and inclusive.”

The Blind Golf Canada events welcome players of all ages, fostering an inclusive environment that extends beyond the game itself. 

Lang said that for many of the players, the tournament pushes them out of their comfort zone and reveals abilities that they never thought they had. It also serves as a rare opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges, who understand each other's struggles.