Dan Konyk crowned Long Drive champ

Dan Konyk became American Golf’s first Long Drive champion after beating of stiff competition in torrential rain at American Golf’s National Academy.

Using a 9-degree Callaway Hyper X with Fujikura shaft and a Titleist Pro V1, Konyk hit his ball an incredible 333 yards to see off 14 other finalists at High Legh Park GC.

The competition attracted more than 1,000 golfers across the UK in qualifying events at American Golf stores throughout the past few months and in the final, the competition was hotly contested with many of the drives reaching world class distances, despite the conditions.

After the knock-out stages, the finalists in the three categories; Over 45s, Under 45s and Ladies, had 6 attempts to stake their claim for the ultimate prize – a trip to the USA to take part in the World Long Drive Championship.

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All eyes were on Konyk, who is a well-known figure in the Long Drive community. So it came as some surprise when with only three balls remaining, Konyk sat behind Over 45 winner Steve Kent. But thankfully for him, he had a little left in reserve and struck a huge 333-yard drive through pouring rain with his fourth ball, which ultimately saw him crowned champion.

“This is one of the most satisfying titles I’ve won” – Dan Konyk

“This is one of the most satisfying titles I’ve won,” said Dan Konyk. “I was laid up with a cold when I qualified at my local American Golf and today the tough conditions and quality competition have pushed me all the way.

“I struggled to get loose early on but managed to rip one in the final that was just enough. This has been a great event and I’m really excited to go on and represent American Golf and Garmin at the World Long Drive Championship.”

Daniel Gathercole, head of marketing at American Golf, added: “We always expected this event to attract some big hitters, but we hadn’t anticipated such a battle! We are really delighted for Dan and are sure that he will do a great job representing American Golf and our sponsor Garmin on the world stage.”

Results across all the categories were as follows:

• Over 45s: Steve Kent (Caerphilly Golf Club) – 328 yards.
• Ladies: Rebecca McGinley (Wearside Golf Club) – 279 yards.