A RESOLUTION recognizing and honoring Representative Al Gentry for his leadership in the creation and success of state, national, and international golfer associations for golfers with disabilities.
Summary
SR171 is a Senate resolution recognizing and honoring Representative Al Gentry for his leadership in building organizations and standards for golfers with disabilities. The resolution recounts his personal history, including a workplace accident that resulted in the loss of his dominant right arm, and his subsequent introduction to amputee golf while recovering. It highlights his return to work, competitive golf participation, and long record of advocacy for adaptive golf.
The resolution details Gentry’s role in founding the Kentucky Amputee Golf Association, later Amputee Golf Charities, and the North American One-Armed Golfer Association, as well as his leadership in creating the United States Adaptive Golf Alliance. It also notes his co-authorship of the USAGA Ranking and Competition Standards Manual, creation of the United States Adaptive Golf Rankings, and development of a course-conditions adjustment later recognized by the United States Golf Association. The measure is primarily ceremonial and does not create new programs, funding, or regulatory requirements.
Impact
SR171 does not amend Kentucky statutes or alter state regulatory authority; it is a commemorative Senate resolution. Its practical effect is to formally commend Representative Al Gentry and to place the Senate’s recognition into the legislative record. The resolution may also help elevate awareness of adaptive golf organizations and disability-inclusive sports, but it imposes no legal obligations on state agencies, golfers, or athletic associations.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and celebratory. The bill was adopted by voice vote, indicating broad, noncontroversial support. The discussion reflected in the text emphasizes admiration for Gentry’s resilience, leadership, and contributions to accessible sports rather than any policy dispute.
Contention
There is no apparent substantive contention in the bill or its voting history. Because SR171 is a recognition resolution, it does not present competing policy positions, fiscal concerns, or statutory changes that would typically generate debate. Any attention it receives is likely to center on the significance of honoring Gentry’s achievements and the broader value of adaptive sports for athletes with physical, visual, or intellectual disabilities.