Reuben Haley and James McMaster share a word on the green during the 2024 Speedgolf World Championships in Japan earlier this month. Photo: Claire Harb.
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James McMaster of Cobram and Reuben Haley of Tocumwal joined athletes from at least 14 nations to compete in the 2024 Speedgolf World Championships in Tochigi, Japan, earlier this month.
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In the open division, McMaster, 40, and Haley, 16, battled it out against about 60 competitors, finishing in 22nd and 27th place, respectively.
The duo teed up in the teams event, placing 10th out of 26 teams from around the world.
Haley was the youngest competitor to take up position at the starting line.
While it was Haley’s first appearance at an international speedgolf tournament, McMaster entered the fray with a little more experience on his resume.
At the October 2018 Speedgolf World Championships & ISGA World Cup in Verona, New York, McMaster slotted a neat fifth place and came away top of his age group.
Considering McMaster first picked up a speedgolf club the year before, it was no mean feat.
Reuben Haley takes a swing. Photo: Claire Harb.
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McMaster said there was an amazing atmosphere at this year’s tournament.
“Lots of music and excitement, and the crowds and other competitors were really supportive of each other,” he said.
“Being able to compete against the best in the world is something that drives me to improve. It’s so much fun.
“I was pretty happy with the result. I would have hoped to finish in the top 20, but it was a very strong field.
“From what he said to me, [Haley] really enjoyed it. He performed really well, and can hold his head high from a strong performance in his first speedgolf event.”
Big things are coming for speedgolf in Australia, with McMaster confirming Club Tocumwal would be hosting the Speedgolf Australian Open in May next year.
It’s been a long time coming for the code, following successive cancellations of speedgolf events across the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’re really excited to be holding that event for the first time since 2018,” McMaster said.
For those interested in trying their hand at the code, Club Tocumwal is holding meet-ups every Tuesday from 5.30pm.
Contact James McMaster at the Club Tocumwal Pro Shop on 5874 9172 for more information.
