Golf is uniquely situated as a lifetime sport played at any age or skill level and inclusive to a wide range of physical ability. Denver Golf is improving adaptive golf opportunities with the Solo Rider and Vertacat mobility carts.  We look forward to working with our adaptive golfers to create opportunities for greater participation and access.  We welcome you to join our commitment to Get in the Game!

To learn more about adaptive golf email us at:  adaptivegolf@denvergov.org

The Solo Rider carts are available to rent at City Park, Harvard Gulch, Kennedy, Overland Park, Wellshire and Willis Case Golf Courses. (*NOTE: 1 cart per location)

For new users, there is a required training session that you must complete before renting any of our adaptive carts. It is approximately 45 minutes long. You will meet with our recreational therapist who will get you acquainted with the cart through a fitting, training on the controls and features, practice on the greens and time at the range as well as the reservation process.

• REVIEW TRAINING DETAILS: Adaptive Golf Cart Training Details

For questions contact adaptivegolf@denvergov.org

We have four Vertacat golf carts available to rent.  These are located at Kennedy (1 cart), Harvard Gulch (1 cart) and Overland Park (2 carts) Golf Courses.

For new users, there is a required training session that you must complete before renting any of our adaptive carts. It is approximately 45 minutes long. You will meet with our recreational therapist who will get you acquainted with the cart through a fitting, training on the controls and features, practice on the greens and time at the range as well as the reservation process.

• REVIEW TRAINING DETAILS: Adaptive Golf Cart Training Details

For questions contact adaptivegolf@denvergov.org

News Report: Adaptive golf carts transform the game for golfers with disabilities, 9 News, August 2024

Article: Golfers with disabilities now with more options on Denver courses, Jim Bebbington, Avid Golfer

The PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) Program introduces the game of golf to Retired Military as well as Military Veterans, in an effort to enhance their mental, social, physical and emotional well-being, and provides healing through golf. The HOPE program provides golf instruction, playing opportunities and social events with the goal of introducing golf as an enjoyable activity to assist with their rehabilitation progress, along with the assimilation back into life alongside their families and in their communities.

This program is open to Retired Military and Military Veterans and their families. Accommodations for disabled participants are available. This program is FREE to vets and retirees.

For more information contact Mike Paavilainen via email at michael.paavilainen@denvergov.org.

For questions contact adaptivegolf@denvergov.org

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

WEBSITE CONTACT	WEBSITE CONTACT

The First Tee adaptive golf program provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for young athletes with disabilities to learn and enjoy the game of golf. This class focuses on building fundamental golf skills, confidence, and social connections through patient, expert guidance and personalized instruction.

Denver Parks & Recreation (DPR) offers therapeutic programs for people with disabilities at any age. Through numerous leisure activities, Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS) and other DPR team members create opportunities to improve quality of life, foster independence and boost self-esteem.

MEET THE TEAM!

Mairade Ronning; CTRS

Hometown: St. Michaels, MD
Location: Harvard Gulch Golf Course
Education: Frostburg State University 2018, BA in Recreational Therapy
Philosophy: Don’t think, just do
Favorite golfer: Max Togisala

CONTACT:
Email: mairade.ronning@denvergov.org
Phone: 720.501.8894

Mike Paavilainen, PGA

PGA HOPE certified, ADM certified

HOME TOWN: Originally from Chicago but has lived in Colorado since he was 10.
LOCATION: Overland Park Golf Course
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: Graduated from the San Diego Golf Academy in 2006 with a degree in Golf Complex Management and Operations.
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY: Make the bad ones better. We all hit bad shots throughout a round of golf. If you can make the bad ones better, the scores will start to lower, the confidence builds, and the good ones start to get better as well.
FAVORITE CLUB: My Pitching Wedge is my favorite club in the bag. The versatility of this club is the main reason. Chips, Pitches, full swing, half shots, punch shots, high shots into the green. My confidence is at its highest when I pull the pitching wedge out of the bag.
FAVORITE GOLF PRO: Without a doubt it has to be Tiger Woods. His dominance is unmatched, his influence helping with accessibility to the game, the popularity of golf skyrocketing during his reign. So many memorable shots and moments.
CONTACT:
Email: Michael.paavilainen@denvergov.org

For more information on the Denver Golf Adaptive Program, email us at adaptivegolf@denvergov.org

SUPPORT ADAPTIVE GOLF

Our adaptive golf program relies on donations to ensure that every golfer—regardless of physical, cognitive, or developmental challenges—has the opportunity to play. Your support helps us provide specialized equipment, adaptive lessons, inclusive programming, and scholarships for participants who may not otherwise have the opportunity to play. By contributing or becoming a sponsor, you help advance Denver’s commitment to creating a welcoming golf experience for people of all abilities.

ACCESS: Reduced or no cost greens fees and cart rentals.
EQUIPMENT:  Purchase of additional carts, customized golf grips, and clubs.
LEARNING: Golf is hard!  Support an adaptive golfer through lesson scholarships to take their game to the next level.