The annual Golf Trust Open welcomed 50 golfers with disabilities to The Shire last week, celebrating the power of sport to unite communities.
Supported by volunteers from Mercedes, Laureus Sport and Irwin Mitchell, the event showcased determination, inclusion and achievement.
The overall champion was Kris Aves, who triumphed with an impressive 39 points.
A former Metropolitan Police Officer, Kris sustained a spinal cord injury during the Westminster terrorist attacks in 2017.
Thanks to The Golf Trust and the use of a paragolfer, he made a remarkable return to the sport, culminating in this year’s victory.
Alongside the overall title, division champions were crowned across multiple categories:
Jake Taylor – 0-18 handicap categoryBryan Banham – 19-27 handicap categoryCedric Bloch – 28+ handicap categoryAlfie Sherwood – Winner of the Challenge Cup (no handicap)
The Golf Trust, which was founded in 2012, is dedicated to bringing people together through golf.
Its work has helped thousands of people experience the game, breaking down barriers and showing how golf can be a driver of social mobility, community connection and healthier lives.
By adapting the sport to suit the needs of individuals, families and whole communities, the charity demonstrates golf’s unique ability to engage up to four generations together on the course.
Founder Cae Menai-Davies praised the success of the day:
“Thank you to everyone who took part and supported the day. This event is always such a fantastic celebration of disability and golf. It also shows the power that golf has to bring people together. Congratulations to Kris and all the other division winners.”
