Topgolf to become officially-sanctioned Special Olympics event

Topgolf will become an officially-sanctioned event at the Special Olympics in 2024. It is the first time a brand has become a medaled event.

Athletes at the 2024 Special Olympic games will be able to compete in Topgolf as an individual or as a member of a team.

“We have a responsibility now more than ever to invite everyone into the game of golf, and our partnership with Special Olympics will help us further unleash the power of play and bring more joy to more people,” said Topgolf chief brand officer Geoff Cottrill.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2024, the local organizing committee for any Special Olympics event held across the U.S. or around the globe will have the option to include Topgolf as a global medaled event, potentially including the Special Olympics USA Games and World Games.

“A partnership with Topgolf will help Special Olympics demonstrate to the world how inclusive sport training and competition is a catalyst for inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities,” said Lou Lauria, chief of sport and competition at Special Olympics. “Special Olympics and Topgolf are completely aligned on the belief in the unlimited power of sport. What starts on the playing field extends into classrooms, workplaces and communities.”

Topgolf currently has 18 employees who are also Special Olympics athletes. The company will offer free practice sessions and exhibitions to Special Olympics athletes and Unified Sports® participants, starting in May 2023.

“I’ve been at Topgolf for 14 years, and this partnership will go down as one of the things I’m most proud of,” said Tiffany Brush, Topgolf’s director of charitable initiatives. “Topgolf is changing the traditional definition of ‘golfer,’ and to see Special Olympics athletes so enthusiastic about Topgolf is a clear example of how we’re making the game more inclusive and open for all.”