DP World Champions Adaptive Golf for Specially-Abled Individuals in India
Empowering Specially-Abled Golfers
DP World is making strides in promoting golf accessibility for specially-abled individuals across India. The organization has pledged an equivalent of £10,000 from its India Championship Legacy Fund to support the Adaptive Golf Alliance Foundation (AGAF). This funding will facilitate AGAF's Discovery Events nationwide, providing introductory sessions and pathways for regular coaching and competition. Additionally, it will aid in the development and education of coaches while connecting novice golfers with experienced adaptive players.
A Milestone Event at Delhi Golf Club
This announcement comes on the heels of an adaptive golf event held at the Delhi Golf Club during the India Championship week. Notable figures such as Shane Lowry, a winner of the DP World Tour and Ryder Cup, alongside Diksha Dagar, an adaptive athlete and silver medallist at the Asian Games 2026, participated in a special clinic with attendees and coaches.
Breaking Down Barriers in Golf
Hemant Kumar Ruia, Country Manager for the Subcontinent, emphasized that the India Championship transcends world-class golf. He stated, "It is about creating a lasting legacy that extends beyond the tournament and makes a meaningful difference in our communities. Through the DP World Legacy Fund, we are dedicated to breaking down barriers and enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in golf. Our support for the Adaptive Golf Alliance Foundation underscores our belief in the empowering nature of sports, enabling individuals to build confidence and seize opportunities regardless of their abilities."
Creating Pathways for Aspiring Golfers
Balendu Singh, Director of the Adaptive Golf Alliance Foundation, remarked, "The backing from the India Championship Legacy Fund will enable us to introduce more specially-abled individuals to golf throughout India. Each Discovery Event serves as a chance to demonstrate that golf is a sport they can engage with, enjoy, and excel in. This funding will allow us to reach additional communities and create pathways for players to enhance their skills and pursue their aspirations in the sport."
Support from the European Disabled Golf Association
Tony Bennett, President of the European Disabled Golf Association (EDGA), praised the AGAF's progress within just nine months of its establishment, noting the development of adaptive golf in India, including the organization of the country's first G4D tournament. He expressed satisfaction with EDGA's collaboration in sharing expertise and establishing a foundation for future growth, looking forward to further opportunities for specially-abled individuals in golf.
DP World's Ongoing Commitment to Indian Golf
This initiative marks the third program funded by the DP World India Championship Legacy Fund, which aims to provide enduring benefits beyond the tournament by increasing participation, nurturing talent, and creating opportunities throughout the country. Previous efforts include the introduction of The R&A Women in Golf Leadership Foundation Programme in India and grassroots participation support through ZEN Golf and Golf Foundation India, aimed at engaging new audiences in golf.
Through the DP World Clubhouse initiative, ZEN Golf has successfully introduced around 1,500 children from 12 schools in the Delhi NCR region to the sport, showcasing the Fund's expanding influence on golf participation.