For golf fans, all eyes are on the Hazeltine National course in Minnesota as the 2016 Ryder Cup tees off, however Guinness World Records can today confirm one of the sport’s most hotly contested records has been extended once again.
Michael Furrh from Arlington, Texas, has won back his title for Longest 'usable' golf club, with his latest piece of super-sized sporting equipment measuring a whopping 8.56 m (28 ft 1 in) long.
In order to prove it’s usability, Michael hit a ball a distance of 59 yards with the mammoth club at the Waterchase Golf Club in Fort Worth earlier this month.
The verified measurement means Michael has for the second time taken the title back from serial record breaker Ashrita Furman, who’s most recent effort at creating the world’s largest golf club measured 7.65 m (25.09 feet).
Michael’s latest bid for the record was this time dedicated to raising awareness of cancer, with the club sporting a pink finish and the professional golf teacher wearing a matching outfit during the attempt.
Explaining the decision, Michael told GuinnessWorldRecords.com: “My grandmother passed away of breast cancer back in 1997”
“I always wanted to do something in her honour and memory and bring awareness for breast cancer”
“This is the reason for my pink Royal & Awesome outfit, my 28 foot 1 inch fuchsia hot pink driver, and the pink ribbon on the head of the golf club hitting fuchsia hot pink Volvik golf balls!”
“For this world record I had the Moncrief Cancer Institute come out and be on hand to answer questions and provide information about what they do for men and women in my area that are afflicted and dealing with cancer.”
Speaking previously about the unique technique needed to wield such a long club, Michael said: “Because the club is so heavy and so long with so much width, you really have to wait for the club to finish its coil in order to start your downswing, so you have to be very patient”.
Watch our previous video feature on Michael from last year in the player below.