The driving range at the Comis Hotel and Country Resort hosted the inaugural Isle of Man Long Driving Competition the Sunday before last.

The event had island golf champions past and present taking part and the field included Jamie Arneil, Paul McMullan and Rob Noon.

Conditions were perfect with the new range balls that had arrived and the winner was a surprise to all. Richard Bell, who is not a regular golfer but has represented the island at athletics and played rugby at a high level, smashed the opposition out of sight with a drive of 279 yards.

As well as winning a fine trophy, Bell also won a year’s membership at the driving range. The victor stated that he looks forward to defending his national title next year.

The event was a fun day out and raised money for the Isle of Man Hyperbaric Chamber.

The afternoon at the range had other challenges taking place, including junior ‘golf pong’ where nine-year-old Haydn Stephenson won an annual junior membership while competing against other young golfers from across the island.