England win Special Olympics Triple Crown

On 6-7 September, eight teams of golfers with learning disabilities from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales came together to compete for the Special Olympics Triple Crown Trophy at the Drumoig Hotel and Golf Resort in Fife.   Despite a rainy second day, a spirit of good-will and camaraderie prevailed as England took the crown from two-time winners Ireland.   Established in 2007, The Triple Crown is one of the highlights of the Special Olympics golf programme. It was created to increase golfing opportunities for high-ability golfers and foster a greater interest in the sport.   Scottish Minister for Sport and Health, Shona Robson opened the competition and The Special Olympics Oath was recited by James Pringle from Scotland: "Let me win, but if I cannot win let me be brave in the attempt." The Special Olympics Great Britain flag was raised to mark the commencement of the contest.   The event was 12 months in the planning and was organised by Elmwood College's Craig Martin - The World Summer Games Head Coach for Golf – along with volunteers Lindsay Dempster and Gordon McQuilkin.   As an added extra treat, the golfers visited St Andrews where they played the famous Himalayas putting course then visited Auchterlonies and took a stroll over the Swilken Bridge.    "In Great Britain our golf programme is constantly evolving with ongoing relationships with The R&A, European Tour, and the Golf Foundation," said Karen Wallin chief executive officer of Special Olympics GB. "Golf may not be an Olympic sport until 2016, but it has been a Special Olympics sport for over 10 years!"