Inspiring Golf Event at London Golf Club Showcases Talented Disabled Golfers at G4D Shield 2024

The inaugural London Golf Club G4D Shield concluded with significant celebration and reflection, marking a pivotal moment for inclusivity in the sport of golf. Held from August 6-8, 2024, on the lush International Course in Kent, this groundbreaking event brought together 30 golfers with disabilities from six different nations. The 36-hole competition saw tremendous determination and skill, ultimately crowning Issa Nlareb as the champion.

Issa Nlareb showcased remarkable resilience and talent, carding a four-under opening round of 68 and following it with a 78 in the second round, finishing just one shot ahead of the runner-up, Jack McCrindle. Nlareb’s performance was marked by precision and composure under pressure, standing four strokes clear of the rest of the field.

Reflecting on the event, Ben Stimson, Director of Golf at London Golf Club, expressed profound pride and admiration. “It was an honour to host the inaugural London Golf Club G4D Shield on our International Course. The event was a humbling experience for the entire team, and we witnessed some magnificent golf from extremely talented individuals. It was incredible to spectate and watch how people with disabilities were able to navigate their way through a round of golf with such commitment and determination. Congratulations to Issa Nlareb, and we look forward to welcoming the EDGA Tour back to London Golf Club in 2025,” Stimson shared.

Issa Nlareb also conveyed his gratitude and joy following his victory. “It was my honour to play in England and this lovely golf course. I like playing this type of course and I thank the London Golf Club team because it is not easy to keep it in this condition. I also want to thank EDGA, the sponsors and my wife Francesca,” Nlareb stated, highlighting the effort and dedication from all involved in making the event a resounding success.

Dr. Tony Bennett, President of EDGA, lauded the collaboration with the London Golf Club. “When London Golf Club agreed to host an EDGA Tour event it immediately felt like a good match. The whole team at this innovative and welcoming club has been so easy to work with throughout the planning process, all the way to delivering the London Golf Club G4D Shield. We were aiming for 30 players at this first event and we know that many of these golfers who clearly enjoyed their experience will now spread the word on the quality of the course and the warmth of their reception. I anticipate that getting a place in the 2025 event will be much desired by many G4D players,” Dr. Bennett remarked.

Issa Nlareb’s triumph is particularly inspiring when viewed against his harrowing past. As the first Cameroonian to play in the US Adaptive Open, Nlareb has faced and overcome enormous challenges. He suffered bacterial meningitis during the Alps Tour’s Ein Bay Open in Egypt, a severe illness that resulted in the amputation of both of his legs and multiple fingers. His journey from such adversity to the winner’s podium underscores the spirit and tenacity emblematic of the G4D Tour.

Inclusivity and accessibility were at the forefront of the event’s agenda. The European Disabled Golf Association (EDGA) has been instrumental in promoting opportunities for golfers with disabilities, collaborating with 50 national golf federations. The London Golf Club, too, has been proactive in this mission. Their PGA professional, Paul Stuart, underwent coaching from EDGA to offer lessons to golfers with disabilities, and free golf lessons were provided to local children and adults. The course facility also saw numerous adaptations to enhance visitor experiences and ensure accessibility.

Looking ahead, there is high anticipation for the 2025 event, stimulated by positive feedback regarding the course quality and the hearty reception of participants. The London Golf Club and EDGA are poised for even greater participation and competition levels in the coming years.

The inaugural London Golf Club G4D Shield has not only set a new benchmark for future events but has also reinforced the critical importance of inclusivity in sports, leaving a lasting legacy that extends well beyond the greens of Kent.