a golf ball and a golf club on a green surface, showing golf for the visually impaired

5 Proven Tips That Make Golf for the Visually Impaired Possible

At Spectrios Institute for Low Vision, our mission is to help people with vision loss live independently, purposefully, and fully. For many, that includes staying active and enjoying favorite pastimes, like golf.

You might be surprised to learn how adaptable sports can be, including golf. With the right support and a few smart adjustments, individuals with low vision or blindness can play the game with skill, confidence, and joy.

How Does Golf for the Visually Impaired Work?

Golfers who are blind or visually impaired often play with a sighted guide, coach, or partner. This person helps with alignment, describes the layout of the course, and gives verbal feedback on distance, direction, and terrain. Once oriented, the golfer takes the shot independently and their partner helps track the ball.

Tips for Adaptive Golf

These strategies help visually impaired golfers excel on the course:

  • Use neon-colored golf balls (orange, yellow, or lime green) for better visibility.
  • Rely on sound, feel, and muscle memory to develop a consistent swing.
  • Mentally visualize the course and track yardages in your head.
  • Pay close attention to the feel of the club as it strikes the ball.
  • Play familiar courses to reduce uncertainty and build confidence.

With time, encouragement, and practice, many blind and visually impaired golfers develop impressive skills. It’s a powerful reminder: vision loss doesn’t mean giving up the activities you love. It just means doing them differently.

Meet a Golfer Who’s Defying Expectations

Take Peter Whinfrey, Chairman of the Board at Spectrios. Diagnosed with Stargardt disease, Peter hasn’t let vision loss stop him from enjoying the game he loves. He marks his larger clubs with a stripe to help his coach align the ball with the center of the clubhead—just one example of adaptive golf in action.

Join Us for the 30th Annual Golf for Sight Classic

Our annual Golf Classic proves that golf for the visually impaired is not only possible—it’s empowering. Join us on the course and see what’s possible.

“Golf for Sight. Give with Heart.”

📅 Monday, September 8, 2025
📍 Glen Oak Country Club, Glen Ellyn

Play alongside Peter and other golfers supporting life-changing low vision care with every swing.

What to Expect:

  • Play a beautiful, private course in shamble format
  • Compete in on-course contests like a Hole-in-One challenge to win Dr. Williams’ legendary yellow Thunderbird
  • Meet MLB legends and celebrity guests like Jim Thome, Darrin Jackson, and Len Kasper. 
  • Enjoy hospitality all day long, from breakfast to cocktail reception
  • Bid on exclusive prizes in our silent auction and raffle
  • Know that your participation directly supports care for people living with low vision!

Golf Packages:

Individual Golfer – $500

Foursome – $1,800

Birdie Package – $2,500 (includes Foursome + Hole Sponsorship)

Want to make an even bigger impact?

Sponsorship packages start at $750 and offer valuable exposure to a local, mission-driven audience.

Be Part of What’s Possible

Whether you’re playing for fun, for the cause, or to prove that vision loss doesn’t mean giving up the game, this event celebrates determination, inclusive golf for the visually impaired, and the joy of giving back.

⛳️ Register now—this event sells out!
🔗 www.spectrios.org/golf
📞 Contact Sandy Wolfrum at 630-690-7115 x 102 or wolfrums@spectrios.org

Let’s golf with heart and give hope!

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