the Cairns Cup at Cherry Creek Golf Club in Michigan, a “disabled Ryder Cup” between the U.S. and Europe. “It’s a disabled Ryder Cup between the U.S. and Europe so each team is going to have different sport categories in terms of disabilities,” said Mathias. “And then we have to build a team based on a different number of actual golf handicap ranges.” Playing in the 0-5 handicap range, Mathias is set to showcase his skills on an international stage. Other notable winners Nancy Towers of Downers Grove, Illinois, who claimed the title in the Overall Women’s Division, showcasing her skill and determination. Meanwhile, Alan Gentry from Louisville, Kentucky, emerged victorious in the Overall Senior Division, thanks to his consistent play, which included three birdies and 20 pars. Johannes Grames of Vancouver finished just three strokes behind Gentry, which highlighted the competitive nature of the event. The Indiana Adaptive Championship underscores the IGA’s dedication to promoting amateur golf through inclusivity and accessibility. Recent research conducted by the National Center on Accessibility at Indiana University, in collaboration with Clemson University, reveals promising trends in adaptive golf participation. Currently, 10 percent of individuals with disabilities play golf, but a significant 35 percent express interest in learning the sport, highlighting the potential for further growth and engagement. The Division Winners were: • Above Knee (G1): Johannes Grames • Below Knee (G2): Josh Williams • Multiple Leg (G3): Evan Mathias • Arm-Unassisted (G4): Alan Gentry • Arm-Assisted (G5): Jonathan Snyder • Arm & Leg Imp. (G7): Tracy Ramin • CP/MD (G8): Robby Donarski • Visual (G11, G12, G13): Kenny Gentile • Short Stature (G14): Ethan Crough • ID (G15): John Mullins • Overall Senior: Alan Gentry • Overall Men’s: Evan Mathias • Overall Women’s: Nancy Towers Many participants from this tournament competed in the United States Golf Association (USGA) Adaptive Open Qualifier at the Broadmoor Country Club. Indianapolis was selected by the USGA largely in part due to the IGA hosting the Indianapolis Adaptive Championship for three consecutive years. To be eligible for the qualifier, male and female professional and amateur golfers with a Handicap Index of 36.4 or less and an eligible impairment confirmed by a WR4GD Pass can play. The Adaptive Open features multiple sets of tees and is contested over 54 holes of stroke play. Qualifying for the USGA Adaptive Open was Joshua Williams in the Men’s Division and Sophia Howard in the Women’s Division. The IGA continues to champion adaptive golf, fostering a community where all players, regardless of their physical abilities, can experience the joy and camaraderie of the sport. Indiana Golf Journal
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