The Endless Summer Long Drive Championship has wrapped up its biggest event to date, attracting record crowds, international competitors and a growing reputation as one of the world’s premier long drive tournaments.
Organizers say more than 1,200 spectators attended the two-day championship at Trillium Wood Golf Club in Belleville, including more than 700 fans who packed the course for Friday night’s championship finals – the largest single-night attendance in the event’s five-year history.
The competition began Thursday with the Canadian Military Long Drive Championship, followed by the Amateur Championship, before the world’s top long drive athletes took centre stage Friday evening.
Maryland’s Anna Drahos captured the Women’s Open Championship with a winning drive of 302 yards, while Indiana’s Logan Schott claimed the Men’s Open title with a 391-yard drive in the final.
Beyond the competition, organizers say the event raised thousands of dollars for its charitable partners while bringing visitors from across Ontario and beyond to Belleville.
Tournament Director Jodie Jenkins says the championship has grown well beyond its original vision, evolving from a local idea into an internationally recognized event thanks to the support of volunteers, sponsors, community partners and fans.
Trillium Wood Golf Club owner Steve McCurdy says the atmosphere throughout the championship, particularly Friday night’s finals, demonstrated how much the event has grown while showcasing both the golf course and the Belleville area.
With the milestone fifth anniversary now complete, organizers say planning has already begun for next year’s championship as they look to continue building on the event’s success.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
