For women looking to exercise after breast cancer, golf may be the answer. The American Cancer Society's new five-week program, "Swing Fore the Health of It," will provide women with the opportunity to become physically active through the game of golf.

The free program will be available to 40 women who have had breast cancer surgery within the past 18 months. Taking place during April and May, the five-week clinic will be run by the PGA pros at Harbor Links Golf Course in Port Washington, under the direction of head golf pro Geoff Walsh.

Each week the program will focus on a different aspect of the game: pre-swing drills, safety and equipment, the full swing, the short game, and an introduction to the golf course. The final week will be a celebration and will include some fun golfing skills contests. Harbor Links is the first club to offer a unique program like this. The idea for the golf clinic came from longtime American Cancer Society volunteer Linda Jasper. "Before she passed away from cancer last year, Linda shared with me her idea to give women experiencing breast cancer the opportunity to learn to golf," said Beth Sachs, American Cancer Society Director of Special Events. "The program," Beth explained, "would be great exercise, but more importantly, cathartic for the women who could focus their attention on something other than their cancer. I am honored and so excited to see Linda's dream come to fruition," added Sachs.

"Golf has been referred to as 'The Game of a Lifetime'," stated Geoff Walsh, Harbor Links golf pro. "This exciting new endeavor will provide participants with tips and pointers about all facets of the game in a comfortable and safe environment," he added. "We are privileged to offer breast cancer survivors the opportunity to pursue this wonderful game at Harbor Links and hope that other clubs choose to follow suit," said Bob Lippiello, Harbor Links assistant general manager. Students will be grouped by ability or may also be grouped with friends.

For more information, to register for Swing Fore the Health of It, or for general cancer information, contact the American Cancer Society at 800-ACS-2345 or www.cancer.org. The deadline for registration is April 11.