Hutchinson native ready to compete in U.S. Adaptive Open Golf Championship

NEWTON, Kan. (KSNW) — Hutchinson native Kirk Holmberg has been addicted to the game of golf his entire life.

Holmberg explained, “I’ve been playing since before high school and played in college at Hutchinson CC , and I’ve played in a lot of events also.”

However, a couple of years ago, Holmberg’s life was turned upside down after being diagnosed with Primary Lateral Sclerosis .

“Four years ago, I noticed my left leg was dragging a little bit, and my left arm wasn’t working very well,” said Holmberg. “I went to the doctor or the neurologist and was diagnosed with PLS. It’s in the same family as ALS , but it’s not as aggressive.”

But Holmberg didn’t allow this progressive disease to slow down his love for golf, and now he’s competing in one of the biggest tournaments of his life, the U.S. Adaptive Open Golf Championship.

“I qualified in April,” added Holmberg, “so it seemed like a long way away in April. And now that it’s here, it’s just like cramming to try to get ready and just nervous about. I would love to make the cut. That’s kind of my goal.”

Holmberg is one of 96 players overcoming the odds and competing in this USGA national championship.

“It’s so cool to watch those guys and girls play there,” Holmberg explained. “They’re so good and they have some of them have way more disability than I have, and it’s just impressive to watch them play and compete with them.”

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