His speed skating feats are well known in sporting circles in Barrhead.
Now Tyler Chapman has shown he possesses a golden touch at a much slower game – golf.
At last month’s Alberta Special Olympics in Devon, he drove, swung, chipped and putted his way to a gold medal in division 2.
Competing against golfers from Calgary, Edmonton and Olds, he finished with a score of 117 after two nine-hole rounds.
His nearest rival, Alan Finch from Olds, ended six shots adrift.
“It was a really great experience,” said 28-year-old Tyler last week about his time in Devon. “I felt I played well.”
It was the first time Tyler had a chance to play golf at provincial level – and his proud father, Bill, was there to witness it.
On June 21, he saw Tyler shoot 63 over nine holes, a performance that failed to do his talents justice.
“He got in trouble over a few of the narrow holes,” said Bill.
The next day Tyler raised his game, shooting 54; it included a memorable birdie at the 7th green.
“It is one of the toughest holes,” said Bill. “It is a par 3 and has an elevated tee. Tyler managed to hit the ball about 12 feet from the hole and putted it straight in.”
Tyler’s putting was one of the highlights of his game over the weekend. He sank several putts in the 20 ft. to 30 ft. range.
“One of the characteristics of Tyler’s golf is that he doesn’t waste any time over his shots,” said Bill. “He just walks up to the ball and strikes it. There is no hesitation.”
Bill credits the Men’s Night League at Barrhead Golf Club for sharpening his son’s game.
“It really prepared him for the provincial tournament,” he added.
More than 400 athletes and 180 coaches descended on Devon for the games.
As well as golf, the games featured athletics, bocce ball, powerlifting, softball, soccer and rhythmic gymnastics. Some athletes – including Tyler – will now be representing the province as Team Alberta in the 2014 Canada National Summer Games in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Tyler is no stranger to sporting success.
In February 2012, he won a speed skating gold and bronze at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in St. Albert and Jasper. He also won two silver medals at the 2008 Special Olympics Winter Games in Quebec.
So which does he prefer, golf or speed skating? It sounds like a difficult question, but Tyler treats it as he did that tricky putt on the 7th at Devon.
Without hesitation, he says: “I prefer golf.”
Of course, once he puts on his skates again he may change his mind. For now, Barrhead can again rejoice in the exploits of this talented Barrheadian. He is a young man who has the Midas touch in hands and feet.
