Long driver William one step from title

GOREY GOLFER William Hunt-Tyrell has qualified for the final of the American Golf U.K. and Ireland Long Drive Championship following a hugely impressive drive of 369 yards in the Over-45 category regional qualifier.

This achievement leaves the Arklow club golfer just one step away from the title and a place in the prestigious world championships in the U.S.

Hunt-Tyrell was one of over 5000 budding long drivers who entered the event that is run by nationwide golf retailer American Golf.

He won the first stage qualifying event at his local American Golf store in February, progressing to regional qualifying where he sent out that 369 yard monster to secure a spot in the final.

He now lines up against the best long drivers in the U.K. and Ireland at Heythrop Park in Oxfordshire on August 4, where he will battle it out for the national title and the only qualifying spot for the world championships in Oklahoma.

The event saw a re-kindling of Hunt-Tyrell’s love for golf following a long lay-off from the sport.

The 46-year-old is a veteran of the long drive scene, having taken part in the world championships several times.

He is also the current Irish long drive record holder, but is still surprised to find himself back in the game that has played such a big role in his life.

‘I have only started back at golf and long drive after a 13-year layoff after a good friend asked me out on a golf outing,’ he explained.

Meanwhile, another Wexford golfer, former county football goalkeeper Gavin Morris who played with St. Mary’s (Rosslare), has qualified for the U.K. and Ireland final of the American Golf nine-hole championship with playing partner Connor Corroon from Donore.

The pair, who are members at Hibernian Golf Club, took part in the regional qualifying event which was held at Roganstown near Dublin.

They now progress to Ryder Cup venue, The Belfry, on September 7 and 8.