GOLF: Casey gets his chance

"I think in the future this opens some doors for people," said golfer Casey Martin after winning his case against the PGA Tour.

Martin, 28, suffers from a degenerative disability of the leg called Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome. This prevents him from being able to make the long walks necessary during golf tournaments. Martin sued the PGA to let him use a golf cart while playing, as his condition makes it impossible for Martin to walk the course during competition.

After ruling in the Supreme Court case, which resulted in a 7-2 victory for Martin, Justice John Paul Stevens, a member of the nine-judge panel, said that the ruling will not affect the game. "[This ruling gives] Martin the chance to qualify for and compete in the athletic events (the PGA Tour) offers to those members of the public who have the skill and desire to enter,'' said Stevens. " "That is exactly what the Americans with Disabilities Act requires," continued Stevens.

I am thrilled!

This ruling is a milestone not only for golfers, but also for disabled athletes worldwide.

Today's Supreme Court decision proves that the Americans with Disabilities Act works.

This act "requires accommodation in public places for individuals who are limited in a major life function."

In winning the case, Casey will receive the accommodation, in his case, a golf cart, which he needs to compete on a level playing field.

I only hope that subsequent rulings similar to this one will follow. With that, we can begin to give all disabled athletes the equality that they deserve.

Today's ruling proved something else, too. Democracy works. I urge all readers to fight for that which they believe is just and to persist until they have been given their rights.

Casey Martin is a spokesperson for the handicapped, and what a fantastic job he has done. In requesting that which he requires to compete fairly, Martin is someone who deserves to be recognized for his valor.

I agree with Martin, the ruling does indeed open doors for the disabled. This victory is not merely about KTW Syndrome or the rights of the handicapped, but rather achieving equality for all citizens, regardless of their ability, or in this case, their disability.

In a previous article, I asked my readers, the sports world, and the Supreme Court to 'Give Casey a Chance,' and I hope that you will stand with me as I remember today, May 29th 2001, as the day Casey Martin got his chance.