The USGA and R&A are on a mission to boost golf’s participation, and they took another step on Tuesday by announcing a global ranking of disabled golfers that will launch in 2019.
The two governing bodies reached an agreement with the European Disabled Golf Association, which first created a ranking for disabled golfers in 2014. The ranking will be administered in tandem with the World Amateur Golf Ranking and will include rankings for both men and women.
“It is another important step towards ensuring that golf is more inclusive of people of all ages and abilities, said Duncan Weir, the R&A’s executive director of golf development and amateur events. “There is an accelerating growth in the number of events around the world for golfers with disabilities to compete in, so it makes absolute sense that there is a global ranking to provide a robust measurement of an individual’s skill and ability.”
The USGA and R&A have been busy modifying the rulebook, and they have also made tweaks to accommodate golfers with disabilities. “One of golf’s best benefits is that it can be played by everyone, and it can be played for a lifetime,” said John Bodenhamer, the USGA’s senior managing director of championships. “We are working to create meaningful and lasting change to make golf more welcoming.”
According to the release, golfers and event organizers will be able to register later this year with the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability.
