When Paul Innocent first picked up a golf club at 15, he never imagined just how vital the sport would become in his life. A lifelong golfer and electrician, Paul was living life to the full – until a rare condition changed everything.
In early 2025, just months after his wedding, Paul was diagnosed with Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) – a rare genetic condition that has left him with only 5% vision in his right eye and 35% vision in his left eye. He was forced to give up his electrical business, his driving licence and the life he once knew.
But Paul has found strength in the unlikeliest of places—on the golf course.
With the support of My Sight Notts and England & Wales Blind Golf, Paul is now back in the swing of things, competing as a B2 blind golfer. With his guide, Steve Wainwright, by his side, Paul recently won the B2 Gross title at the 2025 ISPS Handa British Blind Open in Scotland and the Jack Kerfoot Cup at Royal Norwich Golf Club—all in his debut season.
“My world changed overnight,” Paul said. “But golf gave me a way forward. I want people to know that life doesn’t end with sight loss—it just changes.”
Now Paul is using his story to inspire others—and will be a special guest at My Sight Notts’ Charity Golf Day, taking place on Friday 12th September at Springwater Golf Club in Calverton.
“It’ll be a brilliant day. I’d love people to come, play a round and see what visually impaired golfers can do.”
The Charity Golf Day is open to all abilities and aims to raise vital funds for My Sight Notts, a local charity supporting people living with sight loss across Nottinghamshire.
My Sight Notts CEO, Michael Conroy, said: “Paul’s story is one of incredible strength and we’re honoured to have him at the heart of our event. He shows what’s possible when passion and community come together.”
Event Details:
What: My Sight Notts Charity Golf Day
When: Friday 12th September 2025
Where: Springwater Golf Club, Calverton
Why: To raise funds and awareness for local people living with sight loss
Who: Open to golfers of all abilities
Register Now:
Book online at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/mysightnottinghamshire/1645346
Or contact Joanne Burr at joanneb@mysightnotts.org.uk or on 07817 437143
To read more about Paul’s story click here
