Highlands to host British Blind Golf Open

Barry playing in the Spanish Blind Golf Open held in May which he won. 

Preparations are underway to welcome some of the best blind and visually impaired golfers from around the world to Aviemore to compete in the British Blind Golf Open next week.

The event, which will take place at the Spey Valley Golf Course in Aviemore, has received support from The Highland Council

The Convener of the Highland Council, Cllr Bill Lobban is pleased to see the Highlands host such a prestigious event. He said: “We extend a very warm welcome to all the competitors. I think it is very fitting that the event is taking place in Scotland as it is the 40th anniversary of the Scottish Blind Golf competition. It’s a great opportunity for golfers to showcase their skills and I wish all the organisers and everyone taking part a very successful event.”

The event is being organised by Blind Golf Scotland, a charity who help people with visual impairments play the game of golf. 

Barry McCluskey, Captain of Blind Golf Scotland and one of the tournament organisers who currently sits in the top best 5 blind golfers in the world will be taking part.

He said: “We have 30 players from around the world who each have a guide. The guide is the blind golfers eyes on the golf course. They give them distances line them up for shots and watch where the ball goes for the golfer. 

“The British Open in Aviemore is going to be very competitive and we are all looking forward to playing on a challenging course. I’d like to thank everyone who has worked so hard to organise the event and also the Highland Council for their support.”

The event starts on Monday 4th July with a practise day and then 2 days of tournament play on Tuesday and Wednesday. The event is free to view and anyone is welcome to come along and watch.