Sophie Hong, a chapter participant since 2016, competed in the Special Olympics 2023 State Golf Championships at Orange County National. Sophie competed in the Individual Skills Competition as a representative player for Special Olympics Palm Beach County. The individual skills competition spanned two days, featuring events using driver, iron, and chipping, pitching, short and long putts.
Sophie excelled in the competition, demonstrating proficiency in measuring distances for her driver and irons, executing precise pitch shots clearing an obstacle (a fence), and accurately gauging proximity to the hole. She also displayed precision in chipping and accuracy in short and long putting.
Since 2016, Sophie has actively participated in our Saturday Special Needs Golf Program. This program has provided her with opportunities to learn and practice fundamental golf skills. The 3-hole game training in each class has allowed her to apply essential techniques for competition. Through consistent efforts from both Sophie and her coaches, she achieved an outstanding score of 76 in the Individual Skills competition, securing the Gold Medal.