Golf is a sport that many people with disabilities would love to play more frequently. A recent article in Golf Instruction notes that nearly a quarter of veterans with mobility issues would like to play golf. Golf courses are specifically included as one of the public places that must be ADA compliant, and many are. Golf carts adapted for access, for example, are quite common.
That said, ADA access on golf courses is not universally accepted by the public, which means that education is sometimes needed to actually play comfortably on the courses.
One concern is that access methods such as wheelchairs, crutches, or scooters, and other mechanized means of support damage the greens. However, many access products are specifically designed to avoid damage.
The other is a concern by golfers with disabilities that they are seen as impediments to the pace of the game. Golf Instruction quotes a player as saying that they are “painfully aware that we are seen (usually inaccurately) as the cause of slow play.” However, many golfers with disabilities are the same pace or faster than other golfers—speed is more a matter of ability than abled status. Education about this can help here.
Golf Instruction advises a golfer with a disability who encounters an issue at a course to talk to the management or owner and encourage them to adhere to the access requirements set forth by the ADA. It is also possible to contact the U.S. Golf Association, the National Golf Course Owners Association or local government.
Need help with access at your local public golf course? Contact us and we can help!