Golfer Brendan Lawlor wrote himself into the history books today playing off against stars like Lee Westwood and Danny Willett in the ISPS Handa UK Championship at The Belfry.
Lawlor became the first disabled golfer ever to play on the European Tour when he competed in the €1 million euro tournament at the famous venue.
The Louth native was triumphant at last year's EDGA Scottish Open, and he also competed in the ISPS HANDA Disabled Golf Cup, played alongside the 2019 Presidents Cup in Melbourne.
Here 12 of the world's leading golfers with a disability played the same course and conditions as the professionals.
Lawlor, who is currently fourth in the World Rankings for Golfers with Disability struggled around the Belfry course this afternoon.
Despite a birdie on the third hole, Lawlor failed to make an impression on the leaderboard, eventually carding a 12-over-par 84.
Lawlor, who has a rare condition called Ellis-van Creveld syndrome, is characterised by a shorter stature and shorter limbs.
History.@BrendanLawlor97 becomes the first professional disability golfer to compete on the European Tour.@ISPSHanda #ISPSHANDAUKChampionship pic.twitter.com/S2JvyPH8tB
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) August 27, 2020
Speaking about his disability, the 22-year-old said, "I don't really think about my disability. If someone with a disability or anyone at all sees me playing and is inspired by that to take up golf, that would be brilliant. So maybe I can make a difference.
"I suppose I'm an ambassador for golfers with a disability, so it's a huge opportunity. Everyone has their own issues to deal with in life and you just get on with it, make the best of what you have.
"My disability gives me a few issues. I can have problems gripping the club for example. But everyone has things to deal with. I've lived a pretty normal life so I'm lucky. I spent the first eight months of my life in hospital, but sure they say that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
"I only got involved in disabled golf a couple of years ago and it has really opened doors. I was approached by Modest! Golf management and they have really backed me. Things have been huge since then. Thanks to sponsorship I am now a full-time golfer having worked in the family office equipment business prior.”
After the Belfry, Lowlor will be in action at next week's Northern Ireland Open at Galgorm Castle.
Lawlor has recently secured backing from the prestigious Carton House to prepare for the event.
"I'm so proud to accept membership at Carton House," said Lawlor. "The whole team and membership at the club have been so supportive of me and have welcomed me with open arms."
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
