Brandon Canesi, a trailblazer in adaptive golf, was born without hands. But, he never let that stop him from pursuing his passion for golf. Canesi’s foundation, Hole High, was established to inspire others and spread awareness of adaptive golf. With his extended clubs, which average an extra 12 to 14 inches on the standard size, Canesi is making a name for himself in the golf world.
Adapting to the Game
Canesi’s technique has barely changed since his first experience with golf when he was six years old. His extended clubs, which include a 58-inch driver and a six-inch longer putter than US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau’s 48-inch driver, were inspired by that first experience. Even elite golfers have trouble adapting to Canesi’s extended clubs, as DeChambeau struggled to hit the ball with Canesi’s driver. Canesi’s clubs are custom-made, a far cry from the early prototypes he used.
Overcoming Adversity
Growing up, Canesi faced frequent offers of help, but he always proved he could do things better than expected. This self-assuredness helps him navigate awkward situations in the clubhouse. Some may see his birth defect as a weakness, but Canesi has turned it into a strength. He believes that people are who they want to be and make themselves, regardless of what they’re dealt.
Inspiring Others
Canesi’s passion for golf extends beyond just playing the game. As a golf coach and instructor at the Trump National Doral Golf Club in Miami, he helps young golfers, especially those with disabilities, improve their game. In collaboration with the Rick Smith Golf Academy and a nearby hospital, Canesi runs a weekly adaptive golf program and has led clinics for double-arm amputees and children with varying disabilities. He gets a satisfying feeling when he sees his students succeed and is dedicated to helping others reach their full potential.
Making a Name for Himself
Canesi is not only passionate about teaching golf, but also competitive. Despite limited participation in ranked tournaments, he is confident in his skills and is currently ranked 208th in the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability and No. 1 in the US. He has represented the US in international adaptive golf events and aims to compete in more ranked events to boost the growth of adaptive golf.
The Future of Adaptive Golf
The launch of the Golf for the Disabled (G4D) Tour and the increasing professionalization of tournaments has given Canesi confidence that adaptive golf is trending upwards. However, he believes the European Disabled Golf Association (EDGA) is ahead of the US in terms of competitive tournaments and ranking systems. Canesi sees the growth of adaptive golf as a win-win for all parties involved, including sponsors and golfers everywhere. Adaptive golfers are a source of inspiration, and there are lessons to be learned from the way they overcome limitations and adapt to their disabilities.
Brandon Canesi, aka “Nubz,” is a true inspiration and a pioneer in the world of adaptive golf. Despite his disability, he has turned his passion for the game into a successful career and is dedicated to helping others reach their full potential.
