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Evidence-based classification in golf for athletes with a vision impairment: A Delphi study
Niall J Hynes1, Eldre W Beukes2, Roger Hawkes3
1Centre for Vision across the Life Span, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK.
Summary
Experts found current vision-impaired (VI) golf classification systems are inadequate. A unified, evidence-based system is needed, considering more than just visual acuity (VA) for fair para-golf competition.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Para-sports Classification
- Vision Impairment Research
Background:
- Vision-impaired (VI) golf is a global para-sport with varied classification systems.
- Existing systems may not effectively minimize the impact of visual impairment on competition outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To gather expert opinions on the suitability of current VI golf classification systems.
- To identify specific challenges VI poses to golf for the disabled (G4D).
Main Methods:
- A three-round Delphi study involving 20 experts in G4D.
- Expert consensus-building on classification system effectiveness and necessary improvements.
Main Results:
- The panel agreed current VI golf classification systems are not fully fit for purpose.
- Consensus that a single, international classification system is required.
- Concerns raised regarding intentional misrepresentation of VI and the need for metrics beyond visual acuity (VA).
Conclusions:
- Current VI golf classification systems require revision to ensure fairness.
- Future systems should be evidence-based, specific to VI golf, and incorporate broader measures of visual impairment.
- Further research is essential to understand the impact of different VI metrics on golfing performance.
