Singapore:
Three blind golfers will test their skills this week against Asian Tour professionals during the inaugural Handa Singapore Classic in a drive to encourage more people with disabilities to tee-off.
Australian David Blyth, England's Neil Baxter and Yam Ting Woo of Malaysia will play a three-hole challenge, each paired with a professional who will be blind-folded.
The initiative is the brainchild of Japanese philanthropist and businessman Haruhisa Handa, whose Tokyo-based company International Sports Promotion Society (ISPS) is the main tournament sponsor.
"It is really important that everyone can enjoy the sport regardless of their age or ability," he said.
"Blind golfers are an inspiration to me and professional players alike. They understand the course in different ways and it's amazing to see them strike the ball so well.
"ISPS wants to encourage more juniors, seniors and people with disabilities to get involved with golf."
Australian Unho Park has been confirmed as one of the Asian Tour professionals to take the challenge.
The tournament proper features a line-up including Asian number one Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand at Singapore's Orchid Country Club from September 9-12.