Brendan Lawlor made history yesterday by becoming the first golfer with a disability to play as part of a full European Tour event.
The Irishman, who is currently ranked fourth in the World Rankings for Golfers with Disability (WR4GD), turned professional last September and played at the Belfry as part of a sponsors invite from ISPS Handa.
The 22-year-old has a rare condition called Ellis-van Creveld syndrome, a disability characterised by a shorter stature and shorter limbs, but that has not stopped him from making his impact on the game, notably winning the 36-hole European Disability Golf Association Scottish Open in 2019.
“The nerves were fine, just the usual first tee nerves,” he said, speaking to the European Tour website.
“I hit a good one down the middle on the first and sort of relaxed then. I really enjoyed myself today.
“The back nine was a bit tough. I got off to a flier, I was one under after three. I really enjoyed today. I didn’t shoot the best score but it’s not about the score today.
“The coverage over the last few days, people texting and on Instagram, looking at EDGA. That’s the reason why I’m here this week. It’s really incredible.
“It’s a week to change my life and other people’s lives, so just go out and enjoy it and that’s what I did. I didn’t have any expectations of scores. I’m just so grateful to be competing on the same stage as these guys and getting opportunities like this.
“What ISPS Handa represent, they have asked me to be an ambassador this year as well. It’s a great role for me and I’m enjoying it.”
