This guest feature was written by Kevin Mudron (@norcallongdrive).
The addition of Toptracer at the Haggin Oaks Driving Range has made it possible to do long drive events with ease.
Kevin Mudron
My name is Kevin Mudron and I am very happy to bring Long Drive to Haggin Oaks and the NorCal region. Every Thursday at dark (right now approximately 8pm) I hold a Free Weekly Long Drive Challenge on the Haggin Oaks Driving Range—that includes tonight! If you’re interested in Long Drive, I highly recommend you come out.
Last Thursday, the slightly rainy weather resulted in a smaller turnout than normal. The Longest Drive came from Barrett Vandeford (15) of Woodland High at 308 yards. He hit a Ball Speed of 187 to get there. Pro in the making!
The Haggin Oaks Driving Range typically has a good head wind and the Toptracer sensors take that into consideration. This makes hitting on the range a more realistic option for practicing compared to your typical golf simulator.
We also host the Professional Long Driver Association (PLDA) local qualifiers for the Stage 1 Open division. Stage 2 qualifying is done at Regionals, with Stage 3 being the World Championships. Information on how to participate can be found here: https://prolongdrivers.com/event-schedule-2022
Earlier this year, we held 4 Local Qualifiers at Haggin Oaks with PLDA and had 11 Qualifiers. On April 15th, Sacramento Locals Clint Oliver (Am) and Sean Johnson (Pro) were at the Hobe Sound Polo Grounds in Florida for the PLDA Amateur & Pro Tours.
Both competed and made the top 8 finals in the PLDA Amateur Tour and the Pro Tour. They also competed in the Stage 2 Qualifier at this event but did not make the cut. Sean made the top 5, but only the top two qualified for Stage 3. You got it next time, guys!
Bay Area native Zack Duggan was one of our 11 qualifiers from Haggin Oaks. At the 1st regional of the year in Mesquite, NV, Zack made the cut for the Stage 2 qualifier! He and Aaron Hoffman are the only 2 players from NorCal (so far!) that will be in the World Championships later this year.
There is still a full season of Long Drive events ahead! Who else from our area will qualify?
It is my pleasure to bring you all the news and events involving Long Drive. Be sure to follow me on Instagram @norcallongdrive! Our NorCal Long Drive community is growing fast and growing strong. If you’re interested in Long Drive, I invite you to join us this evening at Haggin Oaks for our free Long Drive Challenge or email me kevin@norcallongdrive.com.
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