Golf: Martin wins right to use buggy
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.CASEY MARTIN, the 25-year-old American golfer who suffers from a degenerative circulatory condition in his lower right leg which prevents him from being able to walk 18 holes, has won the right to use a buggy in competition, writes Andy Farrell. However, the Open may still be closed to him.
The landmark ruling, handed down by the US Magistrate Tom Coffin in Martin's home town of Eugene, Oregon, means he can use a cart in US PGA and Nike Tour events. But the ruling only applies to Martin, and to the PGA Tour, which Martin took to court under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Given the disparate governing bodies in the game, it will still be a while before Martin can ride a buggy in a major championship. Should he try to qualify for the US Open or the Open Championship, he will have to walk.
Although the US Golf Association is reviewing its conditions in light of the judgment, David Fay, its executive director, had stated that they will not change the entry conditions for the US Open, which require competitors to walk.
However, the Royal and Ancient secretary, Michael Bonallack, said there would be no review for the regulations governing the Open Championship, which state that "players shall walk at all times during a stipulated round unless permitted to ride by the Championship Committee''.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments