Sean Hurley, Special Olympics Illinois, celebrates after sinking a putt on the 12th hole during the 2003 Special Olympics Golf National Invitational Tournament as his father, Mike Hurley, watches. (Photo ®2003 PGA of America; Ray Graham, photographer)
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The 2005 Special Olympics Golf National Invitational Tournament is almost here. More than 180 athletes, Unified Sports® partners, friends and families from 29 U.S. states will descend on Ames, Iowa (USA), from 16-19 September to compete in the pinnacle of Special Olympics golf.
The National Invitational Tournament is a unique event; of the 26 sports offered by the Special Olympics, only golf has a dedicated annual event. This year, the sixth annual NIT will be staged at the Ames Golf & Country Club and Coldwater Golf Links. Golf's major bodies are unified in support of Special Olympics golf and the tournament. The PGA of America and the USGA continue for the sixth straight year as presenting sponsors. This year they are joined by the PGA Tour at this sponsorship level. In addition, the LPGA and the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) join as supporting sponsors.
“This tournament promises excellent competition and surprises that are sure to change attitudes,” shares Jim Schmutz, Managing Director for Special Olympics North America. “In past years we’ve seen holes-in one, scores of 76, as well as siblings both with and without intellectual disabilities uniting as a team for competition. This National Golf Tournament could not be possible without the generous support of The PGA of America, USGA and PGA Tour. We hope their continued support will open doors for more athletes to learn and enjoy the sport of golf.”
Over the years, the NIT has grown so large that it requires a 36-hole venue plus a skills course. Special Olympics North America runs the tournament, working with the Tournament Committee to organize hotel accommodations, meals, transportation to and from the golf course, and entertainment every evening. More than 200 volunteers generously donate their time to help manage the event.
Highlights of the 2005 National Invitational Tournament include: Nicklaus Putting Championship, V1 Swing Analysis, GCSAA Guided Golf Course Walking Tours, Peter Longo Trick Shot Show, viewing of a "Tee Time Like No Other," and many others.
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