In this inspiring episode of This Golfing Life, Dan Davies sits down with Kipp Popert, the world’s top-ranked golfer with a disability. Kipp shares his extraordinary journey from growing up with cerebral palsy to becoming a global leader in adaptive golf, and the personal philosophy that drives him to pursue excellence both on and off the course.
Listeners will hear about Kipp’s life-changing experiences, including 12 surgeries, the early challenges of spastic diplegia, and how his love for sports and relentless determination shaped his career. He reflects candidly on growing up with a disability, the inspiration he draws from other adaptive athletes, and the vision behind his own initiative: the Kipp Popert World Invitational, designed to create opportunities for elite disabled golfers.
Overcoming Challenges: Kipp discusses the 12 surgeries he’s had since childhood to manage cerebral palsy, and the resilience developed through those experiences.
Golf as Purpose: How golf has been a guiding force in his life, providing focus, passion, and a platform to inspire others.
Elite Disabled Golf: Insights into the G4D Tour and the US Adaptive Open, showcasing athletes like Chris Biggins and Max Togasala who redefine what’s possible in adaptive golf.
Meeting Legends: Stories from his encounters with golfing icons like Lee Trevino, Tom Watson, Stewart Cink, and Paul Lawrie, and how these experiences shaped his approach to the game.
Creating Opportunities: The conception of the Kipp Popert World Invitational, raising £140,000 to support disabled golfers and children, including international competitors and local community initiatives.
Vision Beyond Limits: Kipp shares his ultimate goal – to compete in able-bodied major championships—and his philosophy of “press on” in life, inspired by family and personal mentors.
This episode is a masterclass in determination, adaptability, and the power of sport to change lives. Kipp’s story is not only about golf – it’s about resilience, opportunity, and the belief that challenges don’t define you; your response does.
Whether you’re a golfer, sports enthusiast, or someone looking for motivation, this conversation will leave you inspired by the extraordinary achievements possible when talent meets tenacity.
KP World Invitational: Instagram
Sounder Golf: Sounder.com
Dan Davies on Instagram: @RNGC2021
00:00 Introducing this week's guest, Kipp Popert
01:47 Kipp's life with cerebral palsy
09:42 Understanding Disabilities in Golf Competitions
11:50 The Journey of Leading Disabled Golfers and Their Achievements
14:10 Caddying Experience and Learning from Others
15:25 The Business of Disabled Golf and Sponsorships
17:18 The Role of Family and Personal Philosophy
22:35 The Need for Recognition and Support in Disabled Golf
24:17 Comparing Disabled Golf to Other Sports
26:18 Determination and Personal Growth in Golf
30:10 Key Milestones and Achievements in Kipp's Golf Career
37:18 Shaping the Game: Techniques and Learning
38:12 Lessons from Lee Trevino: Mastering Pressure and Performance
43:44 The G4D Tour: Opportunities and Challenges for Disabled Golfers
44:59 The Kipp Popert World Invitational, Sponsorship and Support
46:51 Creating Opportunities for Disabled Golfers
52:10 Aiming for Able-Bodied Major Championships
57:39 The Personal Impact of Golf
01:05:24 Building a Legacy Through Golf
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