Horsforth blind golfer chases world crown (From Wharfedale Observer)

Horsforth blind golfer chases world crown

9:10am Thursday 12th July 2012 in Sport

European blind golf champion Malcolm Elrick is bidding to go one better next week and win the world title.

The Horsforth member, who lives in Skipton, has won two European championships, including the most recent one in Milan last October.

Now he is aiming for the biggest title of the lot in Canada when golfers from Korea, Japan, Australia and Israel, among other countries, will compete to become world champion.

Elrick, who is currently fifth in the English Blind Golf Order of Merit, has one aim when he tees off at Truro Golf Club in Halifax, Nova Scotia, from July 16-17.

“I want to be European and world champion at the same time,” said the 23-handicapper.

“As the European title holder, competitors will be after my blood, especially as I have won it twice.

“It will be a tough ask but we are all in the same boat. It’s not the first time I have played in North America – it will be my fourth visit so I know what it’s all about.”

In blind golf, competitors use guides to help them navigate the course and Elrick will have his 16-year-old daughter Lucy performing the crucial role.

His son Chris was alongside him for his European win in Italy and Elrick is hoping the family connection will have the same effect.

He said:”It will be the first time Lucy has guided at a long-haul overseas competition but she is very good. I always feel confident with my children or my partner guiding me.”

Elrick, who has received sponsorship for the trip from Cobalt Cranes and Shepherd Gilmour, has shown recent good form, reaching the semi-finals of the national matchplay championships.

He is warming up for the world event by taking part in the Canadian Champion- ships at Mountain Golf Club in Truro first.