Brendan Lawlor is excited by the challenge of once again testing his game against the world’s best as the G4D Tour star takes his place in the field for the ISPS HANDA – CHAMPIONSHIP.
The DP World Tour is hosting its first event in Japan this week, with Lawlor - one of the world’s leading golfers with a disability - looking to showcase his talent and further shine a spotlight on the sport’s ability to be inclusive.
Lawlor made history as the first golfer with a disability to play on the DP World Tour at The Belfry in 2020 and is intent on proving he has the game to compete with able-bodied players.
“When I got the call three weeks ago, it was such a buzz,” he said.
“We get great opportunities on the DP World Tour with the G4D Tour, but this is something special.
“Just seeing how good your game is against the top players, and seeing how you can do playing from the back tees and playing the golf course at its hardest. I’m really looking forward to it.”
So delighted to confirm I am off to Japan to compete on the @DPWorldTour next week.
— Brendan Lawlor (@BrendanLawlor97) April 15, 2023
Since I started my professional golf career my main aim has been to help break down barriers & show that anything is possible.
Thank you to @ISPSHanda. Next stop Japan. 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/zst3eRibdd
Shortly after Lawlor’s history-making exploits at The Belfry, Tommaso Perrino followed suit at the Italian Open and opportunities for golfers with a disability to compete have continued to grow.
Lawlor, whose disability is characterised by a shorter stature and shorter limbs, recorded three runner-up finishes in the inaugural G4D Tour season last year.
The Irishman, ranked second in the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability, is now setting his sights on making the cut in a DP World Tour event for the first time at PGM Ishioka GC.
“I got a practice round here this week and it’s been playing really good,” he said.
“I’m hitting a lot of five and six irons, but it’s a part of my game that is very strong, and my short game is strong as well.
“If I can go out and get a few early pars, shoot a decent score on the first day, you never know what can happen.
“If you don’t have the ambition (to make the weekend) there is no point being here. I want to go out and prove to myself how I can play.
“Make a few birdies, not put pressure on myself because being here is an honour already. If I can put myself in a position on Friday to have a chance to make the cut, it will be a big week.”
The 26-year-old, who turned professional in 2019, will tee up alongside Andy Sullivan and Romain Langasque over the first two days after accepting an invite from one of his long-time supporters and title partner of the tournament, ISPS HANDA.
“ISPS HANDA have changed my life,” he said. “I turned pro four years ago and they have stuck with me since day one.
“Any visions I had to improve disability golf, they are right behind me and have changed so many lives.”
