Golf Ireland has formed a ground-breaking partnership with Special Olympics Ireland, offering support by means of funding and a renewed commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in the sport of golf.
The partnership aims to enhance the experience of 600 Special Olympics athletes, providing them with greater opportunities to compete, train, and thrive in one of Ireland’s most popular sports.
From its humble beginnings in 1995, with a small group of dedicated athletes inspired by the Special Olympics World Games in Minneapolis, the Special Olympics Golf Programme has grown into a powerhouse of inclusivity and achievement.
Today it stands as one of the most cherished sports within Special Olympics Ireland. With accessibility and inclusivity becoming more widespread in Golf, there has also been an increase in the development of skills and opportunities, culminating in some outstanding performances at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin last year, when Team Ireland’s golfers brought home six medals.
“The best thing about Special Olympics? It’s the memories and it’s the friendship. The friendship I’ve made at two World Games is just incredible. You were looking out for them, they were looking out for you. It’s that friendship. It’s the memories,” said Team Ireland golfer John Keating, who brought home a silver medal from the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Berlin.
This partnership between Golf Ireland and Special Olympics Ireland is not just about funding; it is about a shared vision for the future. With the backing of Golf Ireland, the Special Olympics Golf Programme is poised to break new ground. Golf Ireland’s support will be directed towards creating more accessible opportunities within clubs, increasing awareness and inclusivity, and investing in the development of Special Olympics athletes, ensuring that everyone has the chance to experience the joy of sport.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Special Olympics Ireland in this exciting partnership. At Golf Ireland, we are committed to ensuring golf is for everyone and this initiative marks another step towards greater inclusivity and accessibility. We are proud to support these outstanding athletes and look forward to watching them thrive,” said Mark Kennelly, CEO of Golf Ireland.
Matt English, CEO of Special Olympics Ireland, added: “We are excited to partner with Golf Ireland to promote inclusivity and empower athletes of all abilities. This collaboration will create new opportunities for our athletes to enjoy golf and challenge some perceptions about intellectual disabilities. Together, we’re making sport more accessible for everyone.”
As the Special Olympics Golf Programme continues to grow and flourish, this partnership marks a significant step forward in ensuring that every athlete, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to experience the joy and benefits of golf. Together, Golf Ireland and Special Olympics Ireland are paving the way for a more inclusive future, where the love of golf can be shared by all.
The next Special Olympics World Games is being held in Turin, Italy from March 8-16.