Ohio Golf Journal August 2019

GOLF IS FOR EVERYONE! FRED ALTVATER You are a Golfaholic if: You practice your golf swing in the mirror in the Men’s room, while out to dinner with your wife. May thy ball lie in green pastures, and not in still waters...... Last year we had the pleasure and honor of attending the National Adaptive Golf Championship that was held at the Fortress Golf Club in Frankenmuth, Michigan. At the same time the International Adaptive Golf Championship and the Senior Adaptive Golf Championships were being held there, as well. Physically challenged golfers from around the world had converged for this event and we came away impressed. For those that have suffered a stroke, amputation, are blind or have a debilitating disease, golf is not as simple as changing your shoes and throwing the sticks on a golf cart. Special equipment, carts, or other apparatus are necessary to play the game. We saw double amputees, stroke victims swinging with one arm and another stricken with multiple sclerosis that battles to control his body, in addition to, a golf club. To say the day left a lasting impression is a gross understatement. We made a commitment to dedicate one of our issues to bringing awareness to the various opportunities that are available for golfers suffering with various forms of physical disability. This is that issue. Also, in this issue we want bring attention to the fact that golf may be perceived as an ‘elitist’ endeavor, but golfers across the nation are responsible for generating $4 Billion annually for thousands of charities. No other sport comes close to matching the largess exhibited by the golfing public. If you have not done so yet this year, check the charitable outings at your local club, grab your favorite buddies and do more than just lose a few golf balls. If you do, I may just see you on the Back 9. Ben Hogan Ohio Golf Journal