The rise and rise of All Abilities golf was apparent at two recent events on WA soil.
Firstly, The Vines Resort played host to the Special Olympics WA Golf Qualifying Event in late September, attracting a record turnout in the process.
The facility is already a hotbed for All Abilities golf thanks to resident pro Mark Tibbles‘ renowned ‘Ready, Steady, Golf’ initiative, and the Special Olympics qualifier was another major success.
The event brought together 44 athletes — including individuals with intellectual, psychological and physical disabilities — along with their families, coaches, and volunteers.
Competitions on the day included 9-Hole Individual Stroke Play divisions for more experienced golfers and Unified Pairs foursomes format for new players.
The Division A Stroke Play title went to Lily Broadbridge, with Zach Byala winning Division B. In the Unified Pairs comp, divisional victories went to Grant Piercy & Sean O’Connell; Xavier Bransby & Daniel Hilton; Rosalie Taylor & Murray Taylor; and Glenn Jack & Sean O’Connell.
Mark Tibbles was blown away by the response to this year’s event, saying: “From just two golf entries in 2023 to a full field of competitors in 2025, it’s been incredible to see the growth of golf within the Special Olympics community.”
An All Abilities golf clinic was also part of the schedule on third-round day at the Nexus Advisernet Bowra & O’Dea WA Open at Mount Lawley GC in October.
Led by Mark Tibbles and Andrew Thomas, with the support of Anne-Maria England, 26 All Abilities golfers were given instruction on driving, chipping and putting – with plenty of fun had by all.
Participants in the WA Open All Abilities golf clinic
Find out more about All Abilities golf programs near you here.
Keep up with the latest WA golf news news via the GolfWA news section and our Facebook and Insta accounts. You can also subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter here.
