Karen Ellam Returns from Deaflympics in Tokyo with Exciting News: Selected for 2026 Championships in Sweden
Karen Ellam of Harpenden GC has been picked by the UK Deaf Golf Team for the World Deaf Golf Championships to be hosted by Sweden in August 2026. The selection follows Karen’s performance representing the GB Deaf Golf team at The Deaflympics in Tokyo.
The Deaflympics took place between November 15-26 2025 and Karen was the oldest competitor in the golf singles’ event. It was won by Ladies European Tour player and defending champion Diksha Daga, one of two LET players in the field. The tournament was played over three rounds at Wakasu Golf Links and Karen finished 17th.  She also competed in the mixed foursomes and took 13th place with partner Aiden Silmen-Kelly in the one round shoot-out.
The experience was enhanced for Karen by having her son Charlie as a caddy for two of the rounds. ‘The standard was very high and although I’m a little disappointed not to have played better, it was still incredible to be part of such an amazing event,’ Karen reflected about the trip.
The performances of Karen and her teammates brought national attention and was featured in a BBC Breakfast News item. ‘One of my aims from participation in Tokyo was to raise awareness of deaf golf and I’m delighted we’ve been able to do that.’ said Karen, who was able to support GB athletes in other events once the tournament had finished. ‘It was great to be able spend time with athletes from other sports and countries.’
Deaflympics GB Team Manager, Stuart Harrison, said: ‘What an incredible week. Huge congratulations to our pairs who finished 6th and 13th — outstanding results on the world stage. We’ve enjoyed watching you on TV all week and celebrating every moment with you. You have represented Great Britain with pride and true sporting spirit. You are fantastic ambassadors for GB Golf.’
The Deaflympics sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and organised by the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD), are a multi-sport event held every four years for deaf athletes. Both Summer and Winter Games are held, usually a year after the preceding Olympic counterparts.
A golf hub for women and girls with any level of hearing loss is running through the winter at Essendon GC. This follows on from the success of a similar initiative in the summer supported by Hertfordshire Golf and backed by funding from Sport England’s National Lottery. For more information contact Development@englandgolf.co.uk – karen.pat.ellam@gmail.com or elaineratcliffe@mac.com
In 2028 the World Deaf Golf Championships will be held at Woodhall Spa Golf Club.
