Whether you’re passionate about sustainability, intrigued by the intersection of sport and social impact, or simply curious about the future of golf, this episode is packed with inspiration.
What if the game of golf could truly embrace its origins as a sport for everyone? Today I have the pleasure of sitting down with Russell Smith of Golf It! to uncover how this groundbreaking facility in Glasgow, Scotland, is redefining golf’s accessibility and inclusivity.
Golf It! is a bold and innovative concept backed by the Royal & Ancient Golf Club (R&A), and it challenges stereotypes while creating a welcoming pathway into the game for families, lapsed golfers, and time-starved players alike.
Golf It! is breaking traditional rules to foster community connections, breathe new life into an underutilized space, and make golf accessible to all ages and abilities.
From creating adventure golf courses inspired by children’s ideas to embedding accessibility into every facet of their operations, Golf It! has become much more than a sports venue—it’s a vibrant community hub transforming how people engage with golf.
Whether you’re passionate about sustainability, intrigued by the intersection of sport and social impact, or simply curious about the future of golf, this episode is packed with inspiration.
From partnerships with global brands to programs for schools and individuals with disabilities, Golf It! sets a new benchmark for how golf can thrive for generations to come.
Topics covered:
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Setting the Stage: Introducing Golf It! [0:00]
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- I open the episode by introducing Golf It! as a groundbreaking initiative supported by the R&A.
- I set the tone by focusing on how this project ties together community engagement, accessibility, and innovation in golf.
- Russell reflects on the privilege of hosting me in Glasgow and the vision that brought Golf It! to life.
- His career journey, spanning football, horse racing, and charitable work, reveals a deep passion for leveraging sports to create meaningful social impact.
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The Origins and Mission of Golf It! [6:15]
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- The R&A’s mission is clear: Make golf more affordable, accessible, and inclusive while ensuring it thrives for future generations.
- Golf It! stands as a "physical manifestation" of that mission, aiming to return golf to its roots as a community game.
- Russell describes the challenges of overcoming golf’s reputation for exclusivity and reintroducing it as a sport for everyone.
- The Golf It! team took a community-first approach, listening to local needs through surveys and consultations.
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A New Pathway to Golf [14:35]
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- Golf It! transformed a historic municipal course into a multi-functional venue:
- Community-focused features like paddle tennis courts, a nursery, and innovative food offerings broaden Golf It!'s appeal.
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Engaging the Community [25:00]
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- Russell explains how Golf It! deeply embedded itself into the community by partnering with organizations like St. Paul’s Youth Forum.
- Programs such as "On Bikes" provide free bike rentals, increasing mobility and job opportunities for local residents.
- Through its efforts, Golf It! has transformed the golf course into a symbol of peace, eradicating gang violence in the surrounding area.
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Expanding Golf’s Reach [34:23]
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- The school’s program introduces golf to thousands of children across Glasgow as part of their PE curriculum.
- Initiatives like the Ladies Learn Program and partnerships with diverse communities—Sikh, Muslim, LGBTQ+, and others—help break down barriers.
- Russell highlights the importance of fun and inclusion, creating a vibrant atmosphere that welcomes everyone.
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Golf for All Abilities [42:43]
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- Russell shares details of Golf It!’s disability programs, developed in partnership with EDGA (European Disabled Golf Association).
- The story of a non-verbal child discovering a love for golf illustrates the power of accessibility.
- The venue aspires to become a destination for golfers with disabilities, continuing to grow its programs and reach.
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Partnerships and Future Impact [48:58]
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- AIG: Supporting the school’s program that has already reached thousands of children.
- Toro: Providing greenkeeping equipment and apprenticeship programs for local youth.
- Callaway and Titleist: Supplying free clubs and balls to make golf accessible to all.
- Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation: Supporting apprenticeship programs and professional development opportunities.
- These partnerships align with Golf It!’s mission and amplify its ability to create meaningful change.
Resources & People Mentioned
Connect with Russell Smith
Connect With Golf Sustainability
Subscribe to Golf Sustainability
Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.
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