Hi, Gary Hart here again,

Well we are into the second month of the New Year and I’m pleased to say we are going from strength to strength. The web site is getting regular hits day to day, so we must be doing something right.

It gives me great pleasure to see new amputees giving it a go. I take my hat off to you all. I know it’s not easy but once you take the plunge it is “Amputees are Go”. It is nice to see everyone out there enjoying themselves – FUN, that’s what it is all about.

The number of people that are interested is magic. The clinics are being run on a fortnightly basis so there are two clinics per month – one at Grange and one at Adelaide Shores.

We have a range of new participants including female, male, young and not so young, but the determination from these people is incredible. For instance, we have a young lad, 12 years old, double amputee, Jesse and Ben in a wheelchair - what a tremendous spirit these people have. What determination and great character all of our participants have. You make me feel so proud.

Since my last letter, I have been fortunate to have gained more sponsorship from another great South Australian company who are proud to back and believe in what I am trying to achieve. It gives me great pleasure to announce the major sponsorship of Wallspan Kitchen Connection. They have committed to South Australian Amputee Golf and First Swing Clinics for the next 5yrs. This is major sponsorship.

Other great South Australian based companies getting behind us are Tailors of Distinction; Silver Fleece; Bridgestone Golf Australia (Adelaide); Coopers; King Rice Bran Oil (Ribo); Tension Tonic; Invacare; Comfort Inn Haven Marina and Grimey to Shiney. A sincere thank you to all for believing in South Australian Amputee Golf and the First Swing Clinics. I urge people that view the website, who have listened to me on radio or read any newspaper articles, to please take our sponsors up on the specials that they are offering.

I would also like to make mention of a couple of people. Firstly, Warren Mercer, Golf Pro, at the Grange Golf Club. Warren told PING of what we were doing and they kindly contributed some clubs and putters for our indoor rehab clinics and outdoor clinics. A big thank you, Warren and PING. Secondly, there is of course Pete Keepence (Web Master). Cheers mate for your dedication. I’m sure you’re sick of me already. Great job.

There will be regular updates on the site and coming soon will be photos of the clinics and the great participants. I hope you all enjoy what we are trying to bring to South Australia, as much as we are all enjoying bringing it to you.

As I’ve said in my last newsletter, there are going to be some fundraisers along the way at Avant Guarde (Cue Club), Marion and I will keep you all up to date with proceedings.

Again, thank you so much to all of the sponsors. It is appreciated and a very big thanks to all participants of the First Swing Clinics. You show great courage and determination.

Gary Hart

President, South Australian Amputee Golf

Good Health and Happiness.