Calgary,
05
August
2021
|
11:05
America/Denver

Recreation hosts adaptive golf classes

aafs-golf

With funding from the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, Calgary Recreation has been hosting junior adaptive golf lessons at the Shaganappi Point Golf Course and the McCall Lake Golf Course. Starting in July as a pilot project, these lessons have been free of charge for children with various disabilities and participation is organized through foundations such as Cerebral Palsy Kids and Families, Alberta Sports and Recreation for the Blind, Autism Aspergers Friendship Society of Calgary and Ups & Downs.

Classes are taught by pros from the National Golf Academy and feature five lessons on the driving range and putting green with the opportunity to play on the McCall Lake Par 3 course. The instructors adapt both equipment and techniques to suit any abilities. The classes are on greens that can accommodate wheelchairs and offer longer class times and brightly-coloured golf balls that are easily visible, ensuring participation for children of all physical and developmental abilities.

“We are constantly learning and adapting every golfer’s needs when working with people of all ages, levels and abilities,” says Gennie Liu, Recreation Program Specialist with Calgary Recreation, “We have worked with each disability group to understand participant abilities, possible adaptations and tips to make it inclusive and accessible for all.”

The junior adapted golf programs have been very successful and are expected to be held again in Summer 2022.

 

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