USGA Announces Qualifying Model for 2024 U.S. Adaptive Open

The USGA recently made an exciting announcement regarding the U.S. Adaptive Open, stating that for the first time in its history, the championship will adopt a qualifying model for the 2024 edition. This move aims to further enhance the competitiveness and open nature of the prestigious event.

In the past, the championship field was predominantly determined by Handicap Index. However, for the 2024 U.S. Adaptive Open, qualifiers will be conducted over 18 holes at six different sites across the United States between April 15 and May 31. These qualifiers will be administered by the Allied Golf Associations (AGAs), adding an extra layer of professionalism and ensuring a fair selection process.

Sand Creek Station in Newton, Kansas, has been selected as the host venue for the 2024 U.S. Adaptive Open, which will take place from July 8-10. The USGA’s Chief Championships Officer, John Bodenhamer, expressed his excitement about the introduction of the qualifying model, stating, “We have reached the point of introducing qualifying earlier than expected due to the incredible interest in this championship and the growth of new adaptive competitions that it has inspired.” He further added, “In order to satisfy the demand, we’re excited to roll out this new qualifying model, which will provide high-caliber players ample opportunities to earn a spot in the field and embrace the openness that is a hallmark of USGA competitions.”

To accommodate participants from different regions, several AGAs will host 18-hole stroke play qualifiers for the 2024 U.S. Adaptive Open. The specific sites and dates for these qualifiers will be made available by early February. The AGAs involved include the Florida State Golf Association, Georgia State Golf Association, Indiana Golf Association, Metropolitan Golf Association (CT/NJ/NY), Southern California Golf Association, and the Texas Golf Association.

Online entry applications for the U.S. Adaptive Open qualifiers will open on Thursday, February 22, at 9 a.m. ET, and close on Wednesday, April 10, at 5 p.m. ET. Interested participants can submit their applications through the official USGA website at champs.usga.org. It’s important to note that the U.S. Adaptive Open Championship serves as the USGA’s 15th and most recent national championship for the adaptive golf community. The growth of adaptive golf and the immense interest in the event demonstrate the USGA’s commitment to inclusivity and fostering a competitive environment for all golfers.

Looking back at previous editions of the U.S. Adaptive Open, Ryanne Jackson and Kipp Popert emerged victorious in 2023, claiming the women’s and men’s overall titles, respectively. In the inaugural playing in 2022, Kim Moore and Simon Lee secured victory in the women’s and men’s categories, further establishing the championship’s prestige and competitiveness.

For the 2024 U.S. Adaptive Open, eighteen players have received full exemptions based on their performances over the past two editions of the championship. These exceptional golfers have showcased their talent and will undoubtedly contribute to the competition’s excitement.

The U.S. Adaptive Open welcomes both male and female professional and amateur golfers with a Handicap Index of 36.4 or less. Participants must also possess an eligible impairment, which will be confirmed through a WR4GD Pass. The championship will be contested over 54 holes of stroke play, with players utilizing multiple sets of tees to ensure a fair and challenging experience for all.