Almost 30 participants from the wheelchair basketball community came out to try their hand at the sport of golf on September 12, 2011 at the scenic and challenging Redwoods Golf Course in Langley. Playing by Texas Scramble rules meant that every team had a chance to score well and every participant had an opportunity to make his or her shot count. As well as the usual methods of winning the game (the team with the lowest score was captained by our own Brad Hagkull), there were extra prizes on select holes for closest to the pin (men's and women's), and the straightest drive.
Some were trying out this new sport for the first time, others play regularly, and some others were enjoying the challenge of taking the rust off their game. At a stretch it could be considered cross training, but everyone had a great time. I know my shot percentage has improved as I find the larger target of the hoop with a backboard a cinch after this season of golf.
I also got to play with people I usually don't meet on the court (unless I am called for a foul, right Dean?!!). There were foursomes made up of some work colleagues with an additional member coming from the basketball world. There were a couple of adaptive golf carts available which allowed some of our world class basketball athletes to try a sport that may not have been accessible to them without the cart.
All in all, we raised $1100 for wheelchair basketball and enjoyed 9 holes of glorious green splendour, friendly, fun competition, desirable door prizes, and a scrumptious steak or salmon dinner. Special thanks go to Doug Hawley at Redwoods for making his golf course available and accessible, as well as his excellent and efficient support staff especially Dana.
Keep your schedule open for the 2nd annual fundraiser next year! And bring your A-game!!
by Louise Higgins
