Golf for the Disabled

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IGF Membership

Classification Code

As the Recognised International Federation for Para Golf by the International Paralympic Committee, the International Golf Federation (IGF) is committed to the development of Para Golf and golf for the disabled through the guidance of the IGF Golfers with Disabilities Committee. The IGF encourages golf stakeholders to be inclusive and to promote golf for the disabled at every level, with our key areas of responsibility focusing on:

  • Promote and encourage participation and accessibility of golf for Golfers with Disabilities (GwD).
  • Encourage the international development of golfers with disability.
  • Create a pathway for all GwD to sample, take part and compete from club level through to global events.
  • Support and encourage National Federations to actively affiliate existing disabled golf organisations and promote the inclusion of golfers with disability into their membership.
  • Establish and manage an international eligibility/classification system for golfers with disability.
  • Work with the IPC on golf's inclusion in the Paralympic Games programme.

Golf is a sport for everyone and can be played irrespective of age, gender, physical condition, or disability. Players use their own ball, free from the control of others, where the ball is stationary to allow less mobile and impaired players the opportunity to prepare for each shot. The World Golf Handicap System, variable tee markers and different scoring formats facilitate the opportunity for all golfers, regardless of ability, to play together. Golfers assessed as disabled by their respective governments can participate in golf for the disabled. These players can enjoy golf fully; however, to compete in some international golf for the disabled (G4D) tournaments and score ranking points, players must meet the minimum impairment criteria as defined by the IPC Classification Code.

The Competitive Player Pathway

WR4GD Player Pass

Golfers with disabilities can apply for a pass, which can be used to entry into official G4D tournaments, cart usage, use the ‘Modified Rules of Golf for Players with Disabilities’ and earning ranking points on WR4GD. The Central Eligibility Team grants these passes, and acknowledges the golfer has a government-recognised disability. Apply now to learn more.

Rules of Golf

To facilitate the inclusion of all players with disabilities, The R&A and USGA created the Modified Rules of Golf for Players with Disabilities (MRGPD). The purpose was to create a way for players with different impairments and non-disabled players to play equitably. As with the general rules, the MRGPD is constantly monitored, reviewed and updated on a quadrennial basis. The MRGPD is subdivided into five groups, which respect the needs of players with various impairments.

Equipment Permitted for Medical Reasons

In cases where modified equipment or an artificial device, such as a brace or gripping aid, will allow individuals with an impairment to play equitably in a particular competition, the player may approach the Committee in charge of the competition for permission to use the device under the Exception to Rule 4.3b.