‘In modifying the Rules of Golf for golfers with disabilities, the desired result should allow the golfer with a disability to play equitably with an non-disabled individual or a golfer with another type of disability’.
Golf is a sport for everyone. Regardless of age, gender, physical condition or physical challenge, it is a great way to build friendships and to exercise, while providing an opportunity for personal challenge and growth. There is no reason why the sport shouldn’t be enjoyed by all, including those with disabilities. Wales Golf and the R&A wants to encourage all golfers to play the game, regardless of any disability that they may have.
The R&A and the USGA have produced A Modification of the Rules of Golf for Golfers with Disabilities. This publication contains advice and permissible modifications to the Rules and they provide a means by which disabled golfers may play equitably with able-bodied golfers or golfers with other types of disabilities.
From a practical standpoint, it is useful to subdivide disabled golfers into groups, each of which has a need for somewhat different Rules modifications. Five such groups have been identified for the purposes of modifications to the Rules:
- Blind golfers
- Amputee golfers
Golfers requiring canes or crutches- Golfers requiring wheelchairs
- Golfers with learning disabilities
In addition, in order to assist with the requirements of specific disabilities, some disabled golfers use equipment and devices that do not conform to the Rules of Golf. The R&A can review, on a case by case basis, such equipment and devices and determine whether they should be permitted as an exception under the Rules.
The R&A has also produced an audio version of the Rules of Golf, including the modifications, for blind golfers and others that require this format. Copies of this audio version can be ordered by contacting The R&A. They are free of charge for blind players.
A Modification of the Rules of Golf for Golfers with Disabilities can be downloaded here.
Wales Golf Championships
Any golfer who wishes to play in Wales Golf Championships but requires use of the Modified Rules may do so in any centrally run Championship under the auspices of Wales Golf.
Provided the golfer meets the relevant entry criteria for any given Championship, they must notify the Championship Team at championships@walesgolf.org of their intention to use the Modification to the Rules of Golf at the Championship before the closing date.
The Ping Welsh Junior Tour
We welcome any golfer to participate and compete in the Ping Welsh Junior Tour, and should any competitor require the use of the Modified Rules of Golf then simply notify the Championship Team at championships@walesgolf.org in advance of the closing date.