Adaptive golf pilot brings new players to the course in Park City

A participant practices putting during the National Ability Center’s four-week adaptive golf pilot program in Park City. The program introduced golfers with disabilities to the sport through adaptive equipment and individualized instruction. Photo: National Ability Center

National Ability Center’s four-week program introduces golfers with disabilities to the game

PARK CITY, Utah — A new National Ability Center pilot program is opening another corner of outdoor recreation to people with disabilities, this time on the golf course.

The Park City-based nonprofit recently completed its first four-week adaptive golf program, introducing nine participants to the sport’s fundamentals with specialized equipment and individualized instruction.

The program began indoors at the National Ability Center’s Recreation HUB before participants moved outside and eventually onto a golf course.

The NAC says the program is for people who have never golfed or are beginners, with provided equipment and lessons for participants who play standing or seated.

Participant Paula Prentiss said the progression over the four sessions gave her confidence she did not have before.

“The way they brought us along from lesson one to lesson four, I really feel like I learned so much,” Prentiss said. “Everyone was really cognizant about everybody’s disabilities and helping us say, ‘We can!’”

By the end of the program, Prentiss said she felt ready to take the next step.

“I actually feel that I will be able to golf alone with my husband,” she said.

The pilot expands the National Ability Center’s roster of year-round adaptive recreation programs, including skiing and snowboarding, cycling, equestrian activities, rafting and other outdoor sports. The nonprofit’s mission is to help people with disabilities build confidence and skills through recreation and education.

For now, the golf program focuses on introductory and beginner instruction. The NAC says future opportunities could include leagues, teams, or tournaments.