Six talented British golfers are gearing up to fly across the Atlantic, with their trusty Sun Mountain golf travel bags in tow, to represent Team Europe in the prestigious Cairns Cup.
This eagerly anticipated contest for players with disabilities will take place in Detroit, Michigan, from July 27 to August 3.
The Cairns Cup, known as disability golf’s premier matchplay event, is more than just a competition—it’s a week-long celebration of golf.
The event kicks off with a pre-tournament Charity Golf Day, followed by a fundraising Gala Dinner.
There’s also an open day where players host workshops for disability groups and individuals connected to Cherry Creek Golf Club, the venue in Metro Detroit.
The opening ceremony sets the stage for three days of intense matchplay competition, featuring fourball, foursomes, and singles formats.
The British Contingent
England’s Kris Aves from Barnet, James Gallagher from Huddersfield, Iain Millar from Alton, Charlie Appleyard from Thames Ditton, Chris Foster from Manningtree, and Scotsman Trevor Crombie from Kirkcaldy are key members of the 16-strong European team.
They aim to clinch the Cairns Cup trophy for the first time, having fallen short against the Americans in the inaugural contest held in London two years ago.
These six golfers will join forces with players from seven other European countries—Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, and the Netherlands—to challenge the American team for the coveted trophy, named in honour of British disabled golfer Billy Cairns.
Kris Aves, the Vice Captain of the European team, brings a story of resilience. Injured in the 2017 Westminster Bridge terrorist attack, he now uses a wheelchair and plays golf with the aid of a Paragolfer at The Shire GC.
“I’m honoured to be the Vice-Captain of Team Europe for two consecutive events and look forward to competing against a strong American team in Michigan,” said Kris, crediting his success to hard work, determination, and a robust support network.
Inspirational Journeys
James Gallagher, who has Cerebral Palsy, started playing disability golf in 2012 with British Inclusive Golf and now competes at Meltham Golf Club.
After volunteering at the first Cairns Cup, he earned his place on Team Europe this year.
Iain Millar’s journey is equally inspiring. After suffering a brain injury and multiple injuries playing rugby, he joined the Disabled Golf Association in 2018 following five years of rehabilitation.
Golf has been instrumental in his physical recovery and mental well-being, and he now plays at Worldham GC.
Charlie Appleyard, diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, has managed to improve his handicap since his diagnosis.
An avid golfer since age 11, Charlie thrives in matchplay golf, competing at Wentworth Club and Surbiton GC, and recently took part in a tournament in Holland.
Chris Foster, a veteran of the 2022 event, faced bone cancer at age five, leading to the amputation of his left leg at nine.
A former Great Britain swimmer, Chris turned to golf after injury and is now a PGA Professional at Hanbury Manor Golf & Country Club in Hertfordshire.
Trevor Crombie, another player with Cerebral Palsy, began playing competitive golf in 2013 and has twice won the Scottish Order of Merit.
A member at Dunnikier Park GC, Trevor has represented both Scotland and Europe in various international disability golf events.
Sun Mountain’s Support
Sun Mountain, the Official Bag Sponsor of the 2024 Cairns Cup, is equipping all 32 competitors with ClubGlider travel covers to transport their clubs, along with Team cart bags for use during the competition.
Grant Knudson, President & Chief Brand Officer at Sun Mountain, commented, “As a brand committed to enhancing the golfing experience for all players, we’re thrilled to support The Cairns Cup.
Every participant has an inspirational story, and we look forward to sharing these with our wider Sun Mountain community.”
The Cairns Cup promises to be an extraordinary event, showcasing the resilience, talent, and sportsmanship of golfers with disabilities from both sides of the Atlantic.
As these athletes prepare to compete, they embody the spirit of determination and camaraderie that makes the sport of golf so special.
