Coping

Blind Golf and Me

By Gilda Ellis

Losing vision in one eye doesn’t count; it doesn’t change your life. Suddenly I lost the vision in the other eye. That meant not being able to read, not being able to drive and not being able to play tennis which I did almost every day.

The reading was helped by a CCTV. The driving was taken care of by my husband, children and friends but what was I going to do for an athletic endeavor to replace the tennis?

I found out about the Blind Golf Association, MABGA. I had never had a golf club in my hands, but I was undaunted.

I took golf lessons. I found a golf club near me (very near me). Most golf clubs are far, far away so I lucked out – this club was very close to my home. I joined the club. I took lessons on a regular basis and I joined MABGA.

One of the most difficult things for me was getting a coach. The coach drives the cart; the coach sets up the ball; the coach spots the ball after you hit it.

As I am rather old, having strength is another hurdle. And, I always hope for decent weather (I do not mean 95 degrees in the shade!)

I finally got a coach, but she was often not available, so I have to get “back ups.” I also have to make arrangements for getting to the various clubs where the “outings” take place. They are usually very far away. The whole thing is a bit completed and difficult – but worth it!

Steps to take:

If you would like information about MABGA, go to www.mabga.org. If you have any questions you may contact Gilda Ellis, at 610-664-1977.

About MABGA

MABGA (Mid Atlantic Blind Golf Association) was founded in 1948 as a non-profit corporation. Since then it has been providing blind and visually impaired men and women an opportunity to enjoy the challenges and rewards of the game of golf.

Today MABGA has 37 active members, including both totally and legally blind (visually impaired), 5 prospective members, 61 junior golf members and 75 full-time and part-time coaches. Our members participate in approximately 35 golf outings per year, as well as one with the local PGA Professional as a partner, and our annual fundraising charity tournament.

MABGA is a totally self-sustaining organization providing our programs through dues and our annual fundraising charity event. We have recently received a grant from the Philadelphia section of the PA and the Greater Philadelphia Junior Golf Foundation in support of the MABGA Junior Golf Program.

If you would like information about MABGA, please go to www.mabga.org.