Don Anderson Plays 370 Holes in One Day Marathon
Sets New First Tee – West Michigan Record
Don Anderson made history in late May during the First Tee – West Michigan Golf Marathon at Benona Shores Golf Course. He racked up an incredible 370 holes of golf in a single day to set a new record for the most holes ever completed during the event.
Anderson, a member of the team at Maple Hill Golf, began the day at 5:45 a.m., teeing off with a flashlight before sunrise. He continued throughout the day at Benona Shores, ultimately completing the equivalent of more than 20 rounds on the par-60 course.
The previous record was set last year by First Tee – West Michigan alumnus Bradley Lardie, who played 361 holes during the Golf Marathon at Eastern Hills Golf Club.
The Golf Marathon is First Tee – West Michigan’s largest annual fundraiser, with participants playing as many holes as possible in one day while raising pledges to support students on scholarship. This year’s event overall will be played at 23 private and public courses across West Michigan. Funds raised help provide youth across the region with access to character-building golf programs and opportunities through the game of golf.
“Don has been a participant in our Golf Marathon since the inception of our program in Oceana County in 2023,” said Erik Sanford, Muskegon Area Director for First Tee – West Michigan. “His enthusiasm for the event and raising funds for students in Oceana County is unprecedented. Don has hometown roots in Oceana County, which makes this feat so special.”
Shot of the Day:
Luke Palmer of Hudsonville generated additional excitement by shooting a hole in one – on his birthday no less – during his participation in the golf marathon at Pilgrims Run. He played 145 holes and raised over $3,000.
Golf Marathons continue throughout the summer at courses across West Michigan, bringing together golfers and community members who are passionate about supporting local youth through the game of golf.
The West Michigan chapter serves students in the Grand Rapids, Holland, Kalamazoo, and Muskegon areas. There are chapters in Northen Michigan, metro Detroit and the Eastern District around the Bay City/Midland/Flint area as well that always need volunteers and financial support.
First Tee is a youth development organization that enables kids and teens to build strength of character through the game of golf. By integrating the game with a life skills curriculum, First Tee helps young people develop confidence, resilience, and interpersonal skills that carry over into everyday life.
To learn more, visit www.firsttee.org.
