Darlington-based Aidan Silman was crowned the 2026 England Deaf Open champion, securing both the lowest gross and overall titles, at Marriott Worsley Park.
Aidan shot rounds of 73, 74 and 74 for a seven over-par score to claim the championship and, in doing so, book his place at next year’s European Deaf Golf Championships. The victory also provided the perfect confidence boost ahead of the World Deaf Golf Championships, which take place in Sweden in August.
“I’m absolutely buzzing to have won the England Deaf Open Championships,” said Aidan. “To win both the lowest gross and overall gross titles is something I’m incredibly proud of, and qualifying for next year’s European Deaf Championships makes it even more special.
“A massive thank you to England Deaf Golf for organising such a fantastic championship, and to Titan Wealth Community for their valued support. Now it’s straight back to practice as I prepare for the World Championships in Sweden.”
The England Deaf Open continues to showcase the growing standard of deaf golf in England, providing players with the opportunity to compete for national honours while earning qualification for major international championships.
England Deaf Golf team manager Stuart Harrison said: “This championship marks the end of one journey and the beginning of another. Over the past two years our players have committed themselves to our performance pathway, and now 24 of England’s finest deaf golfers have earned the opportunity to test themselves against the world’s leading amateur deaf golfers in Sweden. We travel with confidence and believe this squad is capable of producing world-class performances.”
England Deaf Golf’s player pathway is designed to support deaf golfers at every stage of their journey – from discovering the game for the first time, through player development and national competition, to representing England at European, World and Deaflympic level.
Alongside its established men’s and senior programmes, the organisation has also launched a dedicated Women’s and Girls’ Performance Pathway which is enjoying a successful inaugural year.
