Golf Nova Scotia’s Adaptive Golf Program continued to provide meaningful opportunities for golfers of all abilities throughout the summer of 2026, helping participants build confidence, develop their skills and experience the game in an inclusive and supportive environment.
Golf Nova Scotia launched the Adaptive Golf Program in 2021 with the goal of providing people living with disabilities an opportunity to learn how to play golf or improve their game through coaching, instruction and tips from PGA of Canada professionals. Since its inception, the program has continued to grow as Golf NS works to make the sport more accessible to everyone.
Adaptive Golf encompasses programs, equipment and playing formats that are tailored to individuals living with physical, cognitive, sensory or neurological challenges. More than simply modifying the game, Adaptive Golf is about creating equitable access, removing barriers and celebrating what every golfer can accomplish on the course.
Golf is uniquely suited to adaptation, allowing players to participate in ways that work best for their individual abilities. Through specialized equipment, personalized instruction and accessible playing environments, Adaptive Golf gives participants the opportunity to learn, grow and enjoy the game on their own terms.
Building Skills and Confidence on the Course
The 2026 Adaptive Golf Program was hosted over five sessions at BetterGolf Dartmouth & Rosevale Golf Course, giving participants the chance to receive instruction while also spending time on the golf course.
The five-session program included:
June 29 – Better Golf Plus
July 13 – Rosevale Golf Course
July 27 – Rosevale Golf Course
August 10 – Better Golf Plus
August 24 – Rosevale Golf Course
Each session provided an opportunity for participants to work on their golf skills while enjoying the social and recreational benefits that come with being part of the golf community.
One of the highlights of this year’s program came during Session #3 on July 27 at Rosevale Golf Course, when participants had the opportunity to try a SoloRider adaptive golf cart.
Introducing New Possibilities Through Adaptive Equipment
The SoloRider is specifically designed to help golfers with mobility impairments play more independently. The adaptive cart features hand controls and a swivel-and-elevating seat, allowing users to comfortably position themselves to access and hit the golf ball.
Several Adaptive Golf participants were able to test the SoloRider during the July session, providing them with an opportunity to experience how adaptive equipment can open new possibilities on the golf course.
For the participants who tried it, the experience was about more than simply using a different golf cart. It demonstrated how the right equipment can provide greater independence, confidence and enjoyment while playing the game.
One of those participants was Adaptive Golfer Rob Helmkay, who experienced firsthand what returning to the golf course through adaptive equipment could mean.
“I had a stroke in July of 2025 and lost the use of my right side, which is also my dominant side. I spent two months in the hospital and two more months in rehab.
Before my stroke, I was an avid golfer who played in many tournaments throughout the year. Not being able to play golf was really getting me down. My physiotherapist told me about the Adaptive Golf Program through Golf NS, and I was very interested.
I later received an email from Shaun Margeson asking me to come try out a SoloRider. Let me tell you, I was blown away that I could actually be on a golf course again, playing the game I love so much.
We met at Rosevale Golf Club in Windsor, and I had my friends from Kandy Golf, Craig and Kandace, meet us out there as well. With Craig’s help and the SoloRider, I got to play two holes and I couldn’t stop smiling. My wife was also smiling from ear to ear because she knows what golf means to me.
Let’s just say it was a great day! I’m looking forward to trying it again and hopefully eventually not needing one at all. But in the meantime, this allows me to play the game I love, and we are so grateful.”
Rob’s experience highlights the impact that Adaptive Golf can have beyond developing skills on the course. For golfers returning to the game after a life-changing event, access to the right equipment, coaching and support can help restore confidence and reconnect them with something they love.
Golf Nova Scotia is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to introduce the SoloRider to participants and hopes to one day acquire a cart of its own. Having access to adaptive equipment like the SoloRider would allow even more golfers to experience the increased independence it can provide.
A special thank you goes to Rick Goodman for allowing Golf NS to use the SoloRider for the July 27 session.
A Community Effort
The success of the Adaptive Golf Program would not be possible without the support of the many people who help make each session happen. Golf Nova Scotia extends a sincere thank you to all of the golfers, families, volunteers, PGA coaches and hosts at Rosevale Golf Course and BetterGolf Dartmouth for their continued support.Their encouragement and dedication have helped create an environment where participants feel welcomed, supported and excited to return to the course.
As Golf Nova Scotia continues to grow its Adaptive Golf initiatives, the focus remains on creating opportunities for more people to discover the game and experience everything golf has to offer.Golf is a game for everyone and Adaptive Golf is helping ensure that everyone has the opportunity to play.
