IS YOUR GOLF CLUB ADA ACCESSIBLE?

This 2008 information could have an effect on all Clubs that allow nonmember usage of the golf course!

February 2, 2008

"We just received a well reasoned, 32 page Order from Federal District Judge Hamilton finding that Marriott¹s refusal to provide accessible golf carts is a violation of the ADA. The next step is for the Judge to issue an order specifying what Marriott must do to comply, i.e., define the minimum requirements of an ³accessible golf cart² and determine the number of carts per course. A settlement hearing is scheduled for February 14, 2008 to see if the parties can agree. If not, the Judge will issue a ruling.

The essence of the Judge¹s Order is:

"Marriott's current policy does not provide plaintiffs, mobility-impaired golfers, with an experience that is functionally equivalent to that of other non-disabled golfers. Plaintiffs here have presented overwhelming evidence that they are unable to golf at Marriott's courses under the current policy.

By contrast, non-disabled golfers can simply show up at the course and Marriott will provide them with a functional cart as part of the cost of their round of golf. Accordingly, Marriott provides golf carts for able-bodied golfers, but does not provide accessible carts for mobility-impaired golfers like plaintiffs. Because Marriott's policy places plaintiffs in a distinctly unequal situation, as compared to their able-bodied counterparts, it is discriminatory under the ADA."

The full text is at www.mobilitygolf.com.

"This decision is a extremely important step in our effort to make all golf courses accessible."     

Rich Thesing
Mobility Golf

Additional ADA Information

Accessibility Issues have come to the attention of the Club Industry.  Whether it is making the golf course, exercise facility or the dining room accessible, there is a large segment of the population that could benefit from a Club's attention to details.

Below are several Web sites that can be accessed to learn more about these issues.

• The first site actually takes you through the proposals, comments and ultimate guidelines, if you are interested in the process.  It is divided into helpful sections, which include pools, spas, steam rooms, workout areas, locker rooms, tennis courts and golf courses. www.access-board.gov/recreation/final.htm#sumary
• The USGA's Resource Center : www.resourcecenter.usga.org
• National Alliance for Accessible Golf (NAAG): www.accessgolf.org
• Toolkit developed by National Alliance For Accessible Golf (NAAG): www.resourcecenter.usga.org/TeeOff/Facilities/ToolKit.cfm
• Project GAIN: www.accessgolf.org/gain/index.cfm
• Modified rules: www.usga.org/playing/rules/golfers_with_disabilities.html
• Find an accessible golf course in your area: www.mobilitygolf.com/ac/index.html
• Advocacy: www.mobilitygolf.com/advocacy/index.html
• Other meaningful information: www.resourcecenter.usga.org/TeeOff/Facilities/AccessibilityGuides.cfm

Our firm is committed to making the lives of individuals with disabilities as full as possible by ways such as being a puppy raiser of service dogs for CCI, assisting in disability charities and being involved with NAAG.