Kyle Berkshire, an accomplished American golfer, is renowned for his exceptional skills as a professional long-drive athlete. He has secured the esteemed World Long Drive Championship title on three occasions - in 2019, 2021, and 2023. Berkshire is set to join nearly 100 golfers from over 24 countries competing for a total prize pool of $400,000 across all divisions at the 2024 World Long Drive Championship. The event will take place from the 8th to the 12th of August, 2024, at the scenic Eagles Landing Golf Course in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. This eagerly awaited championship will include competitions in both the Open and Women's Divisions, providing participants with an opportunity to demonstrate their powerful hitting abilities and compete for the win. A total of 96 golfers will be participating, including both exempt and qualifier entries. Berkshire, aged 27, began his career in 2017 with his first official long-drive event. However, his 'brand' truly began to form the following spring. During his junior year at North Texas, he visited a barber shop prior to the first televised long-drive tournament of 2018. When the barber failed to show up, Berkshire left without a haircut. "So, my hair was a bit long for the competition, and one of the TV commentators mentioned it," Berkshire recounted. "At that moment, I decided to just let it grow." And grow it did, reminiscent of Tommy Fleetwood. Most golfers likely only recognize one long driver, and that is Kyle Berkshire. It may not be surprising that he is friends with LIV Golfer and fellow big-hitter, Bryson DeChambeau. Berkshire discusses health and wellness in scientific terms, focusing on them meticulously. One significant aspect is sleep hygiene. "Five years ago, I would arrive at competitions after only two hours of sleep," Berkshire noted. "You can't expect to perform your best under those conditions." As golf enthusiasts may recall, the Berkshire-Bryson 'bromance' became public in 2022 when the latter made a significant appearance at the World Long Drive Championship. The two golfers continue to communicate regularly, exchanging experiences and insights. Berkshire has recently shifted his focus to the Long Drive, achieving a monumental record with a drive of 579.63 yards - the longest ever recorded. This accomplishment is particularly notable when compared to Rory McIlroy, who holds the title for the Average Driving Distance on the PGA Tour at 326.3 yards. Berkshire also holds a record for ball speed at 241.7 mph. Unsatisfied with his current achievements, Berkshire's next objective is to achieve a distance of 600 yards. It remains to be seen if anyone confidently asserts that he will not reach this milestone given the right circumstances and timing. For more details, visit Berkshire’s YouTube Channel: The Bombers Club.
Text: Lara Palmer
06.08.2024
Exploring the Career and Achievements of Long Drive Champion Kyle Berkshire