There are only five ParaGolfers available for public use in NSW – and one of them is at Gosford Golf Club.
The club is leading the region in making golf an all-inclusive and accessible sport as its all-terrain ParaGolfer raises the user into a standing position to allow a more conventional golf swing, and its low-pressure tyres and wide stance allow it to be used in all areas of the golf course (including greens and appropriately designed bunkers).
Club Captain Bob Thomas said the ParaGolfer was regularly used by people with high-level spinal cord injuries but could also be used by anyone with mobility or stability issues.
“A few months ago I was walking to the first tee and a young lady was riding up the path on a ParaGolfer,” he said.
“She had a big smile on her face after spending time on the course.”
Meg McIntyre, who travels to Gosford Golf Course from Port Macquarie for lessons in the ParaGolfer, said being able to play golf again was wonderful.
“Finding something to do, where I can actually improve, is also very exciting,” she said.
McIntyre was a regular golfer before MS made it hard for her to continue about five years ago.
“Since my mobility has deteriorated, my world has shrunk significantly,” she said.
“Returning to golf with the ParaGolfer has enabled me to get back amongst people, to rekindle old friendships, to have a laugh, to enjoy nature and to be part of normal life.
“I’m feeling the love!”
Another ParaGolfer at Gosford Golf Club, Jeannie Mansour, said she enjoyed just getting out on the course.
“I really enjoy the chance to get out and have a go,” she said.
“I’m not up to a game (even nine holes) just yet, although we currently try a couple of holes which is a start.
“I started late in 2018 and then in 2019 COVID arrived.
“That meant quite a break, as at first the courses were closed, and there were rules about social distancing and the like which made using the ParaGolfer impossible.
“Then when we restarted there would be plenty of rain on the days I was to come; I’m a rain magnet.”
The ParaGolfer offers golfers with disabilities the opportunity to play golf on a regular basis.
“It may well sound silly, but it allows me to be able to swing to hit the ball without falling,” Mansour said.
“I can also hit straight (mostly), as when you’re strapped in, there is no body movement to worry about.”
Gosford’s PGA Professional staff encourage any golfers with disabilities to come and give it a try.
“Golf is an excellent sport and we are so pleased that the ParaGolfer makes it possible for people of all abilities to play,” Head Professional and Operations Manager Tom Ballard said.
“We offer a full range of coaching on the ParaGolfer; one-on-one coaching is a great way to get started on the course.”