However, it turned out to be the fastest Longest Day, as he completed the 72-hole challenge in only four hours and 11 minutes.
McMaster, ranked number 1 in Australia and number 9 worldwide for Speed Golf, stepped out onto his home club, Club Tocumwal’s 36-hole course on Monday, December 11, and completed the challenge before midday.
For most, 72 holes in one day is the ultimate challenge, and that is the official challenge of the Longest Day, but for McMaster it wasn’t enough.
He completed the day with 302 strokes and not only using five clubs but also playing the final round with only a seven-iron and completing the round faster than the previous time. He lost only one ball throughout all five games.
“I was pretty exhausted and didn’t want to carry the bag for the last round, so the seven-iron it was,” he said.
Speed Golf is a variation of golf that combines the elements of running and golf. The objective is to complete the course in the fewest possible number of strokes and the fastest time possible.
With only six weeks of training leading up to his first appearance at the Australian Speed Golf Open in 2018 and after a slew of top five finishes, including a runner-up at the 2018 British Open, McMaster broke through and captured his first Speed Golf title at the inaugural ACT Speed Golf Open in 2019.
Completing his donation goal and raising more than $2000, McMaster’s effort is monumental for an important cause.
The Longest Day is the ultimate golf challenge designed to test people’s skill, strength and stamina.
Participants are challenged to complete 72 holes of golf in a single day while raising vital funds for Cancer Council’s research, prevention and support services.
McMaster has proved that there are virtually no rules when it comes to the Longest Day, it’s all about getting involved and raising money.
If you wish to donate, visit: https://www.longestday.org.au/fundraisers/jamesmcmaster?fbclid=IwAR2HyCo9WpipBnIqU9QYWiUQtEMtNSu5mQdx6u-un9jOMjWLf-1FFvDnO4o