ABOUT

About the United States Disabled Golf Association

USDGA - United States Golf Association Logo

Our Story

Jason Faircloth’s golfing journey began with learning to adapt his playing style to accommodate his physical limitations. Through perseverance, he developed techniques that allowed him to excel at the game despite suffering from Cerebral Palsy.

In 2011, Jason was the first and only American to play in the Disabled British Open. He was one of only three persons with Cerebral Palsy to play in the event.

The Disabled British Open was televised on SKY Sports throughout Europe. Jason finished 34th overall sixth in his flight in 2011 and 28th overall and runner-up in his flight in 2012.

It was while participating in this event that he found the inspiration to form the United States Disabled Golf Association (USDGA). Jason was joined in 2021 by John Bell, who had been driven by his own disability – leg amputee – when he met Jason 2018.

The organization is dedicated to promoting the sport for individuals with disabilities and providing competitive opportunities on both national and international levels!

HISTORY OF EVENT WINNERS >
Jason Faircloth - Founder of USDGA - Adaptive Golf v6

Founder – Jason Faircloth

Born in North Carolina, Jason graduated from Lakewood High School in Salemburg, NC in 1998. He later went on to do an Associates Degree in Business Administration from Sampson Community College in 2002. 

He was a member of the golf team and earned Player of the Year in 1999. Jason worked at Lakewood Country Club, Coharie Country Club and Timberlake Country Club in North Carolina. He volunteered for the US Open in 2001, 2005, and 2007 (both women and men’s).

Jason Faircloth is an inspiring figure in the world of disabled sports, known for his determination and advocacy in adaptive golf.

Under his leadership, the USDGA has hosted numerous tournaments and initiatives, including the U.S. Disabled Open Golf Championship, which showcases the skills and achievements of disabled golfers worldwide.

Faircloth’s mission is to make golf accessible for all, ensuring that those with disabilities can experience the sport’s physical and mental benefits.

Through his advocacy and enthusiasm, Faircloth has had a profound impact on the disabled golf community, fostering a sense of inclusion and empowerment for athletes facing similar challenges.

His work continues to inspire golfers of all abilities to push beyond their limitations and pursue their passions.

John Bell - Director - USDGA - Disabled Golf v6

Director – John Bell

John Bell, known as the ‘OneLegBell’, is a key figure in the world of adaptive golf. John played golf as a child, and went on to work in construction.

However, his life took an abrupt turn in 2011, after he suffered life-altering injuries in an accident. It resulted in John surviving as a left leg amputee.

Refusing to give up on his love for the game, he dedicated himself to adaptive golf, where he became both an advocate and a champion for individuals with physical and cognitive challenges.

Bell’s journey has led to him being one of the most well known faces in the adaptive golf world. He not only mastered the techniques necessary for disability golf but also became a key voice in promoting the sport for people with disabilities.

His work now focuses on running adaptive golf events around the world and helping others rediscover their abilities, emphasizing that golf is for everyone regardless of physical limitations.

John has inspired countless people to take up the sport, and he works closely with organizations, brands and sponsors that support inclusive sports practices.

His story serves as a testament to resilience, showing that physical challenges do not have to be barriers to achieving one’s dreams.

As well as supporting Jason at the USDGA, John is also Vice President of The Cairns Cup, the disability golf’s premier matchplay event. He was Vice Captain of the inaugural Cairns Cup in London in 2022, where he also hit the winning putt!