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This Week in Speedgolf » Roundup

James Hardy shoots 59(!) to win British Champs

Adam Lorton

Adam Lorton

Traverse City, MI · Issue №19 · Sep 12, 2025

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» James Hardy stuns Willett to win British Champs

The 2025 British Speedgolf Championships at Sunningdale Heath GC delivered everything fans could ask for: a deep international field, a new two-round cut format, and a nail-biting chase for the crown.

On a tight par-64 layout, the morning wave set the stage. James Hardy (PGA Pro, England) ripped a 59 (-5) in 27:28 for an 86.28 Speedgolf Score, vaulting him into the lead. The top 20 advanced to an afternoon second round, and Hardy carried his advantage into the head-to-head chase.

WATCH: 2025 British Speedgolf Championships Highlights (Britclip)

Meanwhile, Luke Willett—two-time British champion and speedgolf’s marathon man—stayed within striking distance, hoping the endurance factor would kick in. But on this sprint-track of a course, the balance tipped toward the golf game.

When I watch guys like Carl Palmberg and James Hardy shooting under-par golf in elite tournament play, I’m sure I’m not the only one saying “there are too many good golfers getting into this sport!!!”

Luke Willett chasing James Hardy in the afternoon round

Mollard makes history in Women’s division

Emily Mollard won the Women’s division with a 64 (E) in 30:51, the only woman to advance to the afternoon round, where she finished 7th overall.

Emily Mollard clutch up-and-down chipping over a fence

Emily Mollard interview holding champagne

A champion’s disbelief

Hardy sealed the deal with an afternoon 91.03, bringing his two-round tally to 177.31—just enough to hold off Willett (179.52) and Amateur standout Adam Harrington (184.32). In his post-round interview, Hardy could hardly believe it: “I have to pinch myself.”

James Hardy interview “I have to pinch myself”

Seniors and Juniors shine

Senior Men: Adam Williams (England) took the title with 64 in 32:53 (96.53). His reflection summed it up: “You need your mental strength.” Adam Williams senior winner interview

Junior: Sebastian Wells (England) posted 72 in 29:47 (101.47), then stunned the field by advancing into the overall top-20 cut—a signal that the next generation is already here. Sebastian Wells interview

» What I’m watching

World Champ Jin Ota back in action at the Hokkaido Open

Kyle Cokinos 24 hour golf record – Official Documentary

» Upcoming Events

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Keep it in the short grass »

- Adam

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