A pioneering golf tournament for visually impaired residents has been held following a collaboration between The Comis Hotel & Golf Resort and Sight Matters.
The initiative introduced members of Sight Matters to golf through a structured programme tailored for people with sight loss, most of whom had never played before.
Participants took part in three practice sessions at Comis, using the putting green and indoor simulator, before competing in a final tournament observed at its opening session by His Excellency Sir John Lorimer.
Phil Longworth won the Long History Drive title with a 143‑yard drive, while Roger Ingrey and Julie Kneale were crowned Blind Legends champions. Awards for Most Improved and the Pros Award went to Sue Quayle and Tanya Shimmin respectively.
The programme was developed by Mark Emmington, Director for Infrastructure at Comis, and Sight Matters CEO Cathryn Bradley, who said the event showed how accessible sport can open new opportunities for people with sight loss.
Bradley said: ““This has been a fantastic opportunity for our members who enjoyed the programme immensely, learnt a new skill as well as the fun and competitiveness of the final tournament.
“We have only been able to do this due to the team at the Comis who were superb in their commitment to the delivery of the programme, facilitating adaptations to the software for the blind and visually impaired and adapting their communication style so those without sight could successfully play golf.”
PGA professional Stephen Crooks, who supported the sessions, said watching participants learn and compete was “good fun” and hoped similar events would follow.
Both organisations say they intend to build on the success of the programme and expand inclusive sporting opportunities in future years.
