Twenty-seven adaptive golfers, Special Olympics athletes, and veterans came together at Storm King Golf Club for the 2026 Storm King Invitational, celebrating competition, teamwork, and the connections that make the game special.
After an unexpected postponement in September, the Storm King Invitational returned October 19–20, welcoming 27 golfers for two days of spirited competition, memorable moments, and shared experiences at Storm King Golf Club.
The Invitational brought together adaptive golfers, Special Olympics athletes, and veterans, continuing a tradition of bringing athletes from different backgrounds together through golf. For the Hudson Valley Golf Foundation, the event represents something greater than a tournament. It is an opportunity to build friendships, encourage teamwork, and celebrate what makes the game so meaningful.
The 2026 Storm King Invitational field comes together for a group photo, celebrating two days of competition, camaraderie, and friendship at Storm King Golf Club.
Four Teams. One Championship.
The 27 competitors were divided into four teams, each led by a returning Invitational participant serving as team captain. Representing their own colors and team identities, the Storm Proof (Blue), Storm Chasers (Red), Swing Kings (Grey), and GIR Elite (Green) competed across four rounds of match play.
The tournament featured a variety of formats designed to challenge players while emphasizing teamwork and strategy. Monday opened with Better Ball matches, followed by Selective Drive Alternate Shot in the afternoon. Tuesday brought Scramble matches before the competition concluded with Singles, giving every player an opportunity to contribute to their team's final standing.
After four rounds of competition, the Storm Chasers claimed the 2026 Storm King Invitational Championship with 11 points, followed by the Swing Kings with 9 points, Storm Proof with 6 points, and GIR Elite with 5.5 points.
While the Storm Chasers earned the championship title, the competition was about much more than the final leaderboard.
The 2026 Storm King Invitational champions, the Storm Chasers, proudly hoist the championship trophy in celebration of their victory.
Pictured from left to right: Back row: Kody Conover, Meredith Dwyer, Annmaire D’Hondt, and George Willoughby. Front row: Ricky Reilly and Larry Celano.
More Than a Tournament
What makes the Storm King Invitational special is the connection between its participants. Throughout the event, teammates encouraged one another, celebrated great shots, and worked together across different formats and challenges.
The Invitational creates an environment where golfers of different abilities and experiences compete alongside one another, building relationships that extend beyond the course.
Away from the competition, players had opportunities to connect over shared meals, evening activities, and time spent together around the property. These moments are just as important to the Invitational experience as the golf itself.
For the Hudson Valley Golf Foundation, bringing together adaptive athletes, veterans, and Special Olympics athletes reflects a continued commitment to creating meaningful opportunities through the game of golf.
Looking Ahead
The Storm King Invitational, previously the Bright Spot Unified Challenge, has spent more than a decade bringing athletes together through competition, friendship, and shared experiences. The 2026 event continued that tradition while showcasing the possibilities of bringing these communities together at Storm King Golf Club.
We are grateful to the athletes, team captains, volunteers, and supporters who made this year's Invitational possible. Their enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and dedication continue to make this event a special part of the Hudson Valley Golf Foundation's mission.
Congratulations to the Storm Chasers, our 2026 champions, and to every golfer who helped make this year's Invitational one to remember.
