Sir Nick Faldo and Danny Willett joined visually impaired golfers to learn how they overcome their disability to play the game.
In collaboration with England & Wales Blind Golf, the DP World Tour arranged for three players to display their talent in front of the two Major champions in advance of the Betfred British Masters hosted by Sir Nick Faldo at The Belfry.
After introductions, the three participants – each representing a different category of visual impairment – hit tee shots at the par-three 14th on the Brabazon course.
Explaining the visual impairment categories
B1
- This category encompasses nolight perception in either eye up to light perception, but inability to recognise shapes at any distance or in any direction.
B2 & B3
- Both categories involve a low level of usable partial vision, those in the B3 category will be able to see more than those graded as B2. B3 is the highest category used for international & Paralympic sport.
The three participants were:
- Steve Cunningham (no sight in either eye)
- Danny Daniels (sight in one eye)
- Mike Tomlinson (less than 10% of sight)
With all three players, they highlighted the role of their guides, without whom they would be unable to truly take pleasure in playing the sport.
Daniels won the British Blind Masters earlier this month at the age of 87, with his wife, Di, aiding his alignment and offering tactical advice.
All three struck impressive tee shots, before Masters winners Faldo and Willett used simulation glasses - which replicate the different visual impairments - to get a true idea of the challenges faced by players in blind golf.
While Faldo found the green with his tee shot, Willett shanked his effort, later saying the experience was "humbling".
Cunningham said: "It is a life-changing experience to be able to play golf.
"You know when you have hit a good shot. If you get the swing, right, the rhythm right... it is great. We can't do this without our guides."
Formed in 1989, the charity is open to men and women who are blind or visually impaired of all ages and abilities, whether a beginner or seasoned golfer.
To learn more about the charity and to get involved visit ewblindgolf.co.uk.
