Golf: Schenectady Aces advance to Special Olympics Fall Games

The Schenectady Aces took advantage of playing at Schenectady Muni in the Special Olympics New York Regional Golf Tournament Friday.

Bill VanEvera is the head coach of the Aces and Casey Vattimo, senior vice president for external relations for the Special Olympics New York, is the assistant coach of the Aces team, which practices every Tuesday at Schenectady Muni.  

“We play here with carts, but we have to walk today, so this is different,” said Aces player Courtney Chadwick, who at age 43 has been playing golf about a decade. 

Many of the athletes competing advanced to the State Fall Games in Glens Falls. 

The golf team is in need of sponsorships and volunteers. 

Special Olympics New York programs are provided free to athletes and families. The cost for one athlete’s participation per season in the Capital Region is approximately $300, with additional costs incurred when athletes advance to State Fall Games, according to the team website. 

Special Olympics golfers learn the basics of the game competing as individuals, or in the unified division featuring pairs, playing an alternate shot format. Vattimo teamed up with Chadwick in alternate shot on Friday.

“It’s a sport that tests your patience,” said Chadwick. “But even the best golfers hit bad shots. You have to be patient. That’s part of the game.”

Visit Special Olympics New York online here to learn more about the Games, sponsor an athlete or volunteer. Click here to sponsor the Schenectady Aces. 

The Games will kick off with a Special Olympics New York Opening Ceremony in Glens Falls City Park Friday night, Oct. 20....