Big-hitting Dan Konyk heading from Huddersfield to Dallas to contest World Long Drive Championship

Konyk hit an incredible 333-yard drive through torrential rain to be crowned champion.

The competition had attracted more than a thousand golfers from across the UK.

He was one of 15 people who made it through to the Grand Final, which was held at the American Golf National Academy at High Legh Park GC.

The competition was hotly contested with many of the drives reaching world-class distances despite the conditions.

There were three categories – Over-45s, Under-45s and Ladies – with each competitor having six attempts at staking their claim for not only the title but also a trip to Dallas, Texas to take part in the World Long Drive Championship in October.

It was Konyk’s fourth drive which proved decisive and he commented: “This is one of the most satisfying titles I’ve won. I was laid up with a cold when I qualified at my local American Golf and the tough conditions and quality competition [at High Legh Park] 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 commented, “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.”:

Over-45s winner was Steve Kent, of Caerphilly, with 328 yards and ladies winner was Rebecca McGinley (Prudhoe) with 279 yards.