Elmwood to host Phoenix Cup in 2021

The Phoenix Cup, which is the equivalent of the Ryder and Solheim Cups for golfers with disabilities, is set to be staged twice in Fife in the next few years.

The 2021 version has been confirmed for Elmwood Golf Club in Cupar, while plans had already been in place for the 2024 event to be held over the Old and Jubilee Courses in St Andrews.

“Elmwood Golf has proudly been involved with the SDGC (Scottish Disability Golf & Curling) since the facility opened its doors in 1998,” said Steve Johnstone, the manager at Elmwood.

“The club facilities are well suited to golfers with disabilities and provide easy access to the golf course, practice areas, driving range and clubhouse. 2021 will be the first hosting of a disabled golf match play international at the club, although the SDGC has golfed with our members for over 20 years.

“Several disabled golfers use the club regularly and hopefully more now it has become the first SDGC Hub.”

The Phoenix Cup was first held in Canada and involves teams representing North America and the Rest of the World.

Jim Gales, founder and honorary secretary of the SDGC charity said: “This being the 26th Anniversary of our Phoenix Cup, its a wonderful opportunity to compete over the fairways of one of our best and certainly most welcoming golf clubs for players with disabilities.”

Golfers will be able to qualify through the Scottish Order of Merit Championship, with some wild cards also up for grabs.