Learning Disabled Golfers are Ready to Tee-Off at The Belfry

British Learning Disability Swimming Championships August 8, 2008— On the 15-16 of August, 29 learning disabled golfers from England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland will be competing in the Special Olympics Great Britain (SOGB) Triple Crown Golf Tournament to be held at prestigious The Belfry golf resort in Birmingham.

The learning disabled athletes will be representing their home countries as they compete in the two-day event. They will be covering a grand total of 18 holes, playing 9 each on Friday and Saturday. Participants will also have the opportunity to qualify for competition at the 2009 SOGB National Summer Games in Leicester next July.

The Belfry played host to the Ryder Cup four times, as well as the PGA Senior’s Championship and numerous European Tour events. This year, The Belfry is kindly supporting SOGB by hosting the Triple Crown Golf Tournament. Andy Heffer, Director of Sports and Services for SOGB, says, “We are thrilled to be holding this event on such renowned golf courses.  It should make for a great weekend with the athletes showcasing their skills at a world class venue.”

29 caddies and approximately 20 volunteers from SOGB’s official partner National Grid will also attend to help out with the event.

SOGB is part of an international movement that works to provide opportunities for sports training and competition to those with learning disabilities. Participation in Special Olympics provides athletes with a variety of life skills that are indispensable long after the competition has ended. The SOGB programme currently reaches over 8000 children and adults across the nation, but the organisation is looking to expand its influence so that all people with a learning disability may have access to this life changing opportunity.