The PGA is set to introduce a groundbreaking tournament in December, featuring participants with intellectual disabilities. The event will take place at the Glenview Par 3 course, located west of the Sunshine Coast. This new tournament is part of the adidas PGA Pro-Am Series but will not count towards the Order of Merit. It will be organized by Golf Programs Australia Incorporated (GPAI).
GPAI was founded in 2014 by PGA Professional Darrell Dalton and his wife Michelle. The organization aims to use golf as a means to promote inclusivity and provide training and employment opportunities through its charity shop in Nambour. Their ultimate goal is to establish a golf facility staffed entirely by individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Scheduled for December 4, the Pro-Am has already garnered significant interest, with over a third of teams sold. Approximately 90 amateurs are expected to join 30 professionals for this unique event.
The concept for this pro-am was initially suggested to Dalton by Gavin Kirkman, CEO of PGA of Australia, two years ago. As the event approaches, excitement continues to build among those involved in organizing it.
“The excitement that it’s generating just in our crew itself is spectacular,” said Dalton. “This tournament is going to put a spotlight on the people we work with every day, which is what we’re all about.”
Dalton expressed hope that hosting this professional golf tournament would help spread awareness across the country through participating professionals.
“The relationship we hope to build with the PGA and the PGA Pros who play is really important,” Dalton added. “We’d love their support to spread the word.”
Participants from GPAI will collaborate with Glenview Professional Wade Hooper on various tasks during the event, including greeting golfers and assisting with team registrations.
For those interested in entering a team or becoming a major sponsor for the day, contact information has been provided.
