Battle Creek VA hosts low vision golf scramble

In golf, each player competes individually against the rest of the field. A golf scramble is a team sport where players work as one team to compete against others in the field.

Battle Creek VA’s recreation therapy hosted a low-vision golf scramble followed by lunch at Custer Greens on the VA campus.

Five visually impaired Veterans competed alongside their guests and VA staff members.

“The best thing about a scramble is that if I make a bad shot, it doesn’t matter so much,” said Greg McCormack, who was golfing with his Veteran son, John. “We’re playing in teams of four and, between the four of us, someone always makes a decent shot.”

Veterans and teammates formed a special bond

The recreation therapists in low vision want to ensure that our Veterans who are blind or have low vision can enjoy all aspects of a healthy life. This event provides opportunities for social interaction and networking among blind and visually impaired golfers and fosters a sense of community and camaraderie in the Veteran community. 

The event also raises public awareness about the capabilities and achievements of blind and visually impaired golfers and promotes a positive image of blindness.

“Activities and events like a golf scramble provide Veterans the opportunity to engage in leisure activities they may not have done since their vision loss in a supportive environment,” said Alexandria Norton, recreation therapist.  “They are able to utilize the skills they learn and build confidence to continue living a more active leisure lifestyle off campus. “

Battle Creek VA recreation therapy and low vision programs staff were pleased with the success and positive feedback of this event, the second one of the summer. They plan to continue the low vision golf scrambles annually.

“I just got such a kick out of playing with these guys,” said Veteran Alex Clarkson. “I look forward to doing it again.” Veterans and their teammates can train for the next one and establish relationships that can grow beyond the sport of golf.