Between May 5 and 7, we had the pleasure of welcoming the European Disabled Golf Association (EDGA) back to London Golf Club for an unforgettable three days of golf.
Competing for the London Golf Club G4D Shield, some of golf’s leading players with a disability descended on the International Course for 36 holes of extremely competitive action.
After an opening day 77, England’s Bradley Smith entered the final day top of the leaderboard, holding a two-shot lead over Dutch golfer Joep Kockmann, and a three-shot lead to Belgium’s Arwin Duerinckx.
A fantastic final round of 68 saw Smith, the highest-ranked player in the field and 15th in the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability (WR4GD) gross ranking, ease home in comfortable fashion, finishing one-over par and 14 shots ahead of his nearest challenger.
2025’s event saw 52 golfers from 11 different nations compete over two rounds.
Ben Stimson, director of golf at London Golf Club, said: “We were honoured to welcome EDGA back to London Golf Club for the London Golf Club G4D Shield event following the incredibly successful inaugural edition last year.
“It was incredible to spectate and watch how people with disabilities were able to navigate their way through a round of golf with such commitment and determination. Congratulations to Bradley Smith on his victory and to all who competed over two incredibly competitive days.”
Bradley Smith, EDGA London Golf CLub G4D Sheild Winner 2025
Marjon Thijssen, tournament director, said: “We’ve just enjoyed a truly memorable tournament at London Golf Club. True to English tradition, chilly winds and brisk temperatures welcomed us atop one of Kent’s highest points — but our players met the challenge with great spirit. Over two days, 52 players competed with passion and determination, embracing not just the competition, but also the camaraderie and stunning setting of the club.
“From the immaculate fairways to the impressive clubhouse and exceptional hospitality, every detail reflected London Golf Club’s commitment to excellence. On behalf of the EDGA TOUR team, we sincerely thank London Golf Club for their superb course, dedicated staff, and warm welcome. A special thank you to the club members, who generously lent us their beloved Spike Bar for three days — the perfect place for players to unwind and connect.
“The prize-giving ceremony, marked by the medals and the elegant G4D Shield, brought a fitting close to a wonderful event. We’re already looking forward to returning to this beautiful venue next year — hopefully welcoming even more players to share the experience.”
One of the many inspirational stories of players that took part in the event is that of Kris Aves, a Metropolitan Police officer who survived the 2017 Westminster attack. Paralysed from the waist down, Aves’ passion for golf motivated him to return to the sport using a ParaGolfer mobility device, and his participation at London Golf Club is just one example of the talent and resilience that characterises the EDGA Tour.
Everyone at London Golf Club would like to thank EDGA and every player who took part. To find out more about EDGA and the great work they do, visit edgagolf.com
