The U.S. Adaptive Open concluded this week at Woodmont Country Club in Rockville, Maryland, drawing 96 players with various disabilities. The event, run by the USGA without a purse, emphasized community and inclusion over competition payouts.
Players competed in categories based on their impairments, including lower-limb amputations, seated divisions, and intellectual disabilities. Kipp Popert claimed the overall title with a final-round 63 for his fourth consecutive win. Jordan Thomas took the low score in the men’s lower-leg category.
Meredith Dwyer, who uses a prosthetic leg after amputation below the knee, qualified for the event and was supported by her caddie and partner Brett Gray. Annie Hayes recorded her first career eagle in the seated ladies category.
USGA president Kevin Hammer described the tournament as the organization’s most joyful event. Participants highlighted the sense of belonging and the chance to compete at a national championship level.
