Challenge Golf

Golf has proven to be a wonderful way for people with disabilities to refocus on their abilities and redirect their thoughts to the positive side of life.

The Challenge Golf program was developed by recreational therapists as an extension of our existing rehabilitation programs to help people recovering from strokes, brain and spinal cord injuries, amputations and neuromuscular disorders get back to golfing. Our program helps individuals develop adaptive techniques or use equipment to maximize their skills, establish goals and get them back to playing golf again. We provide a supportive atmosphere to encourage individuals to grow in confidence and self-esteem, improving their mental and physical health.

Our program has expanded to include both adults and children with visual impairments, individuals with developmental challenges, and those with less disabling impairments, such as hip or knee replacements. It also assists all individuals, both disabled and able-bodied in learning the game of golf for the first time.

Challenge Golf offers both individual instruction and group classes. Classes are taught by a PGA Professional and other qualified staff.  We accept referrals from all Cleveland Clinic locations. For an appointment and evaluation, please call 330.850.1029.

Class curriculum includes:

  • Introduction to golf
  • History and rules
  • Fundamentals of the golf swing
  • Chipping and putting
  • Strengthening and flexibility exercises
  • Introduction to the use of woods
  • Golf activities

Upcoming Challenge Golf Events and Classes

Community and Youth Programs

Challenge Golf has numerous community and youth programs. We offer a weekly golf league and annual golf classes for the Akron City Public Schools, special education programs, and several area high school golf teams practice at our facility. We also provide junior golf camps, a clinic for Parkinson patients, a 10-week program for United Disabilities Services and we help train special Olympic golfers.

About the Challenge Golf Course

Built in 1991 and opened in 1992, Challenge Golf Course was the first facility in the nation designed specifically for persons with disabilities. The entire program has been a model and information resource for similar programs, both nationally and internationally.

The three-hole Golf Course has three sets of tees each, allowing for a full nine-hole round. Special features include wheelchair-accessible paths, especially in the areas of tees and greens, and slopes with inclines of eight percent or less in areas where access is most critical.

The driving range is located on 12 acres across from the golf course. It features a 3,500-square-foot tee area for people with disabilities and a putting green.

The Learning Center features an indoor hitting range which allows classes to be taught year-around. All areas are open to the public for both disabled and able-bodied golfers of all ages. All equipment is provided by the Cleveland Clinic Akron General Foundation however, golfers may bring and use their own equipment.

The Challenge Golf Course is funded by the generous contributions of people like you. For more information on how you can become involved, contact the Cleveland Clinic Akron General Foundation at 330.598.0394.

For more information about Challenge Golf, please call 330.850.1029.

Location:

1596 Flickinger Road
Akron, OH 44312
330.850.1029