October 2, 2024 |
Photo – 2019 photo of Kyle Berkshire – Courtesy Krank Golf Facebook page
World long drive champion Kyle Berkshire is unlikely to return to Rawlins this year to break his own record.
Last October, professional golfer Berkshire visited the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course in Rawlins with one goal in mind: to break the record for the world’s longest golf drive. Despite the unpredictable weather, Berkshire managed to hit a 579-yard shot from the 12th hole green.
The official distance world record is 515 yards, set in 1974 by Mike Austin during the U.S. National Seniors Open Championship in Las Vegas. Other golfers have hit farther than Austin, but the Guinness Book of World Records doesn’t recognize long drives outside of competitions.
In 2005, professional golfer Scott Smith hit a 539-yard drive during a long drive competition. Two years later, in 2007, Mike Dobbin hit for 551 yards. Berkshire currently holds the unofficial record at 579-yards.
After breaking the record, Berkshire attempted to hit a longer shot, but afternoon rain drove him indoors.
While waiting for the weather to change, Rochelle Ranch staff set up a golfing simulator in the golf course’s restaurant, the 19th Hole. While practicing his swings, Berkshire clocked a record-breaking club speed of 241.6 miles per hour.
Berkshire vowed to return to Rawlins this year with the intention breaking his own long drive record. However, Kyle’s father and manager, Bill Berkshire told Bigfoot99 that scheduling conflicts have delayed the golfer’s return.
The elder Berkshire said due to the approaching winter, Kyle is unlikely to make it back to the Rochelle Ranch Golf Course this year.
Following his 579-yard record-breaking drive, Berkshire claimed he could hit even farther. The professional golfer announced his plans to return to Rawlins and attempt a 600-yard drive this year. However, Berkshire’s next record attempt will likely have to wait until next fall.
