Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/68546
FROM THE FAIRWAY BY GAYLE MOSS - (www.GolfGal.ca) Adapted GOLF When the Paralympics were held in Vancouver in 2010, I attended as many events as I could, marvelling at the passion and perseverance of the athletes as they overcame what appeared to be insurmountable odds to excel in the sport they loved. I was in awe of their courage and tenacity. Their "never give up – never surrender" outlook on life left me wondering what I would do if I were to experience serious trauma through illness or accident. Would I give up golf or would the love of the game give me the strength to try, try again? Thankfully I haven't had to find out, but after spending an afternoon at the Adapted Golf Clinic at McCleery this past June, with 15+ golfers who have survived severe traumas, I think their example gave me an answer to my question. If you really love something, you will find a way to enjoy it, no matter what life throws your way. Fortunately, there are organizations ready to help, such as the Vancouver Park Board and 18 GF Strong Rehab Centre. Over a dozen years ago, Jan Vetter from GF Strong and Bonnie Friesen from the Park Board launched the Adapted Golf Clinic. As part of that initiative a workshop was held with 14 golf pros who wanted to give of their time and energy to help those who might otherwise never have a chance to hone their golf skills. My coach, Ginny Golding (www.ginnygolding.com), from the University Golf Club, was the coach at this year's clinic. She had attended an Adapted Golf workshop with the LPGA quite a while ago, and for the past 12 years, Ginny has provided instruction for people with disabilities – many of whom are clients referred to her by GF Strong. "Let us not forget that golf is about hitting a little ball with a stick. Where we hit the ball, how we hit it, how we hold the stick and who Continued On Next Page IMAGES CREDIT GAYLE MOSS (WWW.GOLFGAL.CA)