A Durham-based golfer who suffered a stroke earlier this year has launched a new community initiative aimed at helping others return to the game, with plans to expand from the north east of England to golf clubs across the UK.
Andrew Biggs founded Stroke Play Golf with close friend Mark Eadle to bring people together through accessible golf events, removing the physical and financial barriers that can prevent stroke survivors from enjoying the sport.
The not-for-profit initiative is seeking support from clubs willing to provide tee times, facilities, equipment and free buggy use. Its ambition is to establish regular gatherings where participants can enjoy golf, share experiences and build friendships without pressure to complete 18 holes or achieve a particular score.
For Biggs, 57, the project stems from his own experience of recovery after suffering a stroke just nine months ago.
“I had a stroke in January whilst driving on the motorway. That was followed by a ‘blue light’ ambulance to a hospital 220 miles from home and not quite sure what was happening or what would happen,” he recalls.
While his outward appearance may suggest he has recovered, Biggs says the effects of his stroke remain largely invisible, creating challenges that are not always understood by others.
“Fast forward to now and I look 100% and often hear ‘you don’t look like you had a stroke’, that can be a challenge as my symptoms are all hidden, although no less painful.”
Golf had already played an important role in his personal and professional life. Before his stroke, Biggs organised golf events for people working in property, using the game to help participants develop relationships and strengthen their support networks.
Returning to the course became an important goal during his recovery. With a buggy and Eadle’s support, he has been able to resume playing, although the experience also highlighted the additional costs and expectations facing golfers with health limitations.
“After the stroke, getting back onto the course was a big driver and I am pleased to say that I have done this multiple times now, with a buggy and Mark’s support. I have decided that bad golf is better than no golf,” he says. “This got me thinking as the golf is now more expensive, as the hire of a buggy can be as much as £60. It can also mean that you feel obliged to complete the 18 holes as you have paid for the whole package.”
Those experiences helped shape Stroke Play Golf’s approach: participation should reflect what each individual feels able to do, whether that means playing nine holes, following a short loop, accompanying others in a buggy or simply trying a putt.
“I don’t believe there should be any barriers to people enjoying what they love, either physical or financial,” Biggs says.
Eadle brings more than 40 years’ experience in professional sport and the golf industry to the venture. His father suffered a stroke, while conversations with friends and others discussing their recovery have reinforced his understanding of the isolation people can experience after initial rehabilitation ends.
Rounds played together gave Biggs and Eadle time to discuss recovery, confidence and everyday challenges. They identified a need for opportunities to meet others who understand those experiences, with golf providing a relaxed setting for conversation and mutual support.
The initiative has secured partnerships with Longhirst, Beamish Park and Hexham golf clubs, with its launch event being held at Longhirst on September 30th. The founders intend to develop the north east events before taking the model nationwide.
Regular monthly gatherings are planned, offering free golf, equipment and buggies for those who need them. Experienced golfers and newcomers will be welcome, as will people returning to activity after other serious health issues.
The longer-term ambition is a network of partner clubs and a register of Stroke Play Golf members who can access free buggy use. Offering shorter playing options would also help participants enjoy the course without feeling committed to a full round. Sponsors and other supporters are being sought alongside clubs to help make that expansion possible.
Biggs and Eadle want to establish a sustainable community in which the social experience carries as much weight as the golf. As Biggs puts it: “Stroke Play Golf isn’t about competition, it’s about community.”
If you would like to get in touch with Stroke Play Golf, visit www.strokeplaygolf.org, email andrew@strokeplaygolf.org or call 07775 989882.