Champ Sets Ball Speed Record Using Golf Pride Niion Grip

(SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.) - Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton announced that 2012 RE/MAX World Long Drive Champion Ryan Winther recently used a Golf Pride Niion grip to set a new Guinness World Record for fastest golf ball speed ever recorded. The Niion line blends bold fluorescent colors with innovative new textures and unique patterns to deliver unmatched feel and moisture channeling performance for impressive durability at even the highest of swing speeds. The record-breaking feat took place at an exhibition sponsored by Golf Pride grips Jan. 23 at Orange County National Golf Center in Winter Garden, Florida, as part of the 2013 PGA Merchandise Show’s Outdoor Demo Day.  

Winther and 2012 RE/MAX World Championship runner-up Tim Burke competed head-to-head in an exhibition moderated by LDA founder Art Sellinger, in an attempt to break the current Guinness World Record of 211 mph.   Both Winther and Burke bested the current record, but with a speed of 217.1 mph (as measured by Trackman) Winther claimed the record for himself.  Winther’s record is currently classified as unofficial while in the process of being validated by Guinness for official status.    

Both Winther and Burke are stars of the Long Drivers of America (LDA) circuit.  In 2012 both were dominant figures on the LDA Tour with Burke capturing the LDA Tour Championship and Winther winning the biggest title in the sport, The RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship.

"For years we have seen our top players record incredible club-head and ball speed marks.  Watching two elite players go toe to toe for this record at the PGA Show was awesome. When you think the average PGA Tour player is in the 168 mph range we are talking about 50 mph more of ball speed," said LDA Owner Art Sellinger.  

The LDA is a dynamic golf events company owned and operated by long drive pioneer Art Sellinger. Founded in 1995 and based in Roanoke, Texas, LDA is best known for staging the annual RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship, the premier event in power golf. The RE/MAX championship has evolved into an international competition with power golfers from around the globe battling for bragging rights and $500,000 in prize money.  The RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship will be seen on Golf Channel/NBC beginning October of 2013.  For more information visit www.longdrivers.com.

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