Slovakia to Stratford: Miro’s inspirational  journey

Miroslav Halmo won The RSM European Play-offs and wants to help more people from different backgrounds to play together.  

In golf – thanks to the range of playing formats and the encouraging scoring options available, and given that the golf ball is static for its players at the start of each shot – this is a sport that is now being seen as one of the most inclusive to learn and play. This news can be especially valuable, and inspiring, for people who have a disability. And within the myriad of examples of the game’s physical and mental health benefits for new players, the personal journey of Miroslav Halmo stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit: finding a way to achieve personal fulfilment on a grand scale.

Born in 1977 near Topol’čany, Slovakia, Miroslav entered the world with a rare condition known as hemimelia, resulting in the absence of his lower right leg. Despite this, he was a live-wire of a child, eager to engage in the same activities as his peers. His parents, father Miroslav and mother Eva, ensured he was provided with prosthetic limbs for his leg as he grew to aid his mobility, though these required frequent repairs due to his active lifestyle.

Throughout his youth, Miroslav explored various sports, each time encountering limitations imposed by his disability. Reflecting on these experiences, he remarked: “I tried many sports… with every sport it came to a point when I was not able to compete.”

This recurring disappointment led him to believe that the camaraderie and competition of sports might remain permanently beyond his reach.

It wasn’t until 2019, at the age of 42, that Miroslav’s path took an unexpected and wholly welcome turn. A company social event introduced him to golf, a sport he had previously never tried. Recounting this serendipitous encounter, he said: “We had this company evening at quite a new course and that was when I came into contact with golf.” This experience ignited a passion within Miroslav, leading to a profound realisation: “My disability should not prevent me from playing golf.”

Embracing the sport with fervour, Miroslav dedicated himself to honing his skills. His home club, Golf Club Meander near Nitra, became his training ground. He practised diligently, immersing himself in golf literature and instructional videos, later seeking guidance from Slovak professional coach Anika Bolčíková.

Remarkably, within just 18 months of picking up a golf club, Miroslav qualified for the prestigious RSM European Play-off Series, held at Stratford-on-Avon Golf Club in England. This event, organised by EDGA (the European Disabled Golf Association) and sponsored by RSM, provides competitive opportunities for golfers across the disability spectrum, including physical, neurological, sensory and intellectual. Reflecting on his rapid progression, Miroslav expressed his delight after much hard work: “I could not understand it, it was a big shock for me and I was so happy just to be here with all the great players, it’s amazing.”

The tournament was to be a defining moment. Miroslav advanced through the rounds, ultimately securing victory against England’s Graeme Mazur with a 3&2 win in the final. This achievement was not just a personal triumph but also a significant milestone for Slovakian golf.

Miroslav’s story underscores the vital role of organisations like EDGA in fostering opportunities for golfers with a disability. Through its initiatives, EDGA promotes inclusion, allowing individuals to experience the rewards and challenges of golf. Such initiatives are strengthened by the support of RSM, whose commitment empowers individuals with disabilities to pursue their passions.

Beyond his achievements, Miroslav hopes to inspire others with disabilities to take up golf. “People from different backgrounds, different ages, different experience: you can still play together and this for me is amazing.”

Miroslav actively participates in the Slovakia Golf Association for Disabled Golfers, aiming to introduce the sport to more individuals. His vision extends to the global stage, with aspirations to represent his country in future Paralympic Games. “I don’t think about the future in different handicaps… my dream is to play in the Paralympics,” he shared.

In a world where challenges are ever present, Miroslav Halmo’s journey serves as a beacon of hope and determination. His story surely illustrates that with passion, support, and opportunity, limits can be pushed, and new opportunities found.

– With thanks to RSM for their support. Click here to find out more about the RSM Play-offs.

– You can read more detail on Miroslav’s story here with EDGA.

Contact EDGA