Inclusion program helps all have a swing in pro-am

PETER Hyden, Rod Paykel and Scott Harris play golf using customised equipment, including Peter’s motorised golfing wheelchair know as a “paragolfer”, allowing him to be in a standing position to swing a golf club.

Through its partnership with Golf Victoria, the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) is a platinum partner of the Oates Vic Open, and organised for Peter, Scott and Rod to participate in last week’s Pro-Am alongside women’s professional Whitney Hillier.

Peter was left paralysed after a motorcycle accident on October 14, 2011. He lost control of his motorbike on a bend on Healesville-Kinglake Road, went onto the wrong side and was struck by an oncoming vehicle.

Rod plays golf using one arm to swing his fully customised clubs. He suffered significant right shoulder and arm injuries, including nerve damage, and fractured ribs after a motorcycle accident on August 23, 2014. He swerved to avoid an obstacle, went down an embankment, clipped a tree and fell from his bike.

Scott has an acquired brain injury from an off-road motorbike accident in 2008. Scott is a passionate campaigner for registering vehicles in Victoria, as his recovery has been aided by TAC compensation due to his off-road bike being registered. He plays golf using one arm to swing his fully customised clubs.

Golf Victoria’s Inclusion Program assists people with disabilities to pursue the sport.

With support from the TAC, these golfers have access to the cutting-edge technology required to get them back onto the course.

TAC chief executive officer Joe Calafiore is proud of the initiative that allows those with disabilities to continue with their passion for golf.

“We know that for many people, getting back to their everyday life roles is just as important as getting back to work, whether they are a parent, carer, community volunteer or sports club member.

“The Golf Victoria partnership enables the TAC to help these clients realise their important goal to get back to playing golf and getting their lives back on track after injury.”