Golfer Brett Tassell of 100 Mile House had the experience of a lifetime recently, competing at the Special Olympics Canada 2012 National Golf Tournament.
It was the first time the event had been held and it took place at Chippewa Creek Golf Club in Mount Hope, Ont., Sept. 27-29.
The 25-year-old was among more than 53 athletes from across Canada, including nine from British Columbia, who came together to train, practice and compete at the tournament.
Tassell has been hanging around golf courses since the age of 12 and plays regularly as a member of the 100 Mile Special Olympics golf team. In June, he qualified at the regional competition held here to compete at nationals.
He shoots an average 42 at the par 32 Marmot Ridge Golf Course in 100 Mile, where his Special Olympics team practises, and at nationals, he pulled off a 44 in round 1, and 48 in round 2 on the par 36 course to place fifth in his division.
The tournament wasn’t just about competition at a national level. It also gave the golfers an opportunity to learn new skills from PGA of Canada pros, including Gary Price.
Tassell says there was a lot going on during the tournament and he was able to strike up some new friendships with other athletes.
“It was an experience I will never forget.”
Special Olympics BC Foundation’s Sport and Youth Development manager Shawn Fevens, who co-ordinated the B.C. athletes for the tournament, had good things to say about Tassell.
“Having Brett on the team was a lot of fun and he definitely did not lack for energy. I look forward to playing with Brett in the future.”
The regional competition held in June also qualified Tassell to compete at the 2013 Special Olympics BC Summer Games in Langley.
Tassell’s parents, Ken and Leslie Tassell, live in 100 Mile and say they are very proud of their son for his accomplishments.
