Dixon Schoemaker started playing golf at a very young age. “I was four years old when I started,” said Schoemaker. Schoemaker, who is now 20, is a really good golfer. Add in the fact that he has cerebral palsy and is hearing impaired, and his incredibly consistent play is even more impressive. So impressive, his boss at Goderich’s Sunset Golf course suggested he apply to the Canadian All Abilities Golf Championship happening next week in Ottawa. It’s a Golf Canada event for golfers with physical, sensory, or intellectual limitations. “He’s been here for six years. He’s our hardest working guy here. He’s always smiling. And he’s a phenomenal golfer, too,” said Goderich Sunset Pro Shop Manager, Ryan Laurendeau. How good is Schoemaker? He’s made three holes in one, the first one at the tender age of six. “I am very excited. This is my first time going to compete in the All Abilities tournament,” he said. Laurendeau says Dixon is an inspiration. He’s not the longest hitter, but his cerebral palsy and hearing impairment have little to no effect on his ability to hit a golf ball true and straight nine out of 10 times. “It’s a big thank you to his father, right. Because his father has been the one that’s been taking him out there all the time. Four times a week, sometimes probably even more,” said Laurendeau. Schoemaker says he wants to win the tournament to thank his many supporters at Sunset, who helped raise money for his trip and stay in Ottawa. “Hopefully win something, to bring back,” he said. The Canadian All Abilities Championship is from Aug. 4 to 7 in Ottawa.
