Boyden Atwood’s normal Friday round with his pals two weeks ago at Boone (N.C.) Golf Club became the most unforgettable 18 holes he’s ever experienced.
The 89-year-old who typically finds himself shooting rounds in the high 70s or low 80s carded the lowest score of his life, a 4-under-par 67 from the red tees of his home course. The “senior tees” measure 5,096 yards at a course rating of 68.6.
“It’s the best round I’ve ever played,” Atwood said in his thick North Carolina accent, noting that his previous record was a 68 he shot on his 70th birthday. “I’ve had four holes-in-one in my life and I told my wife that this was a lot more exciting than them. I was nervous all the way until the drive home.”
Guinness World Records lists the lowest round below a golfer’s age as being set by John Powell on June 1, 2017. Powell, then 86 years old, shot a 64 at Indian Springs Golf Club in California.
Atwood’s round ties Powell’s, although Boone Golf Club head professional Tom Adams verified that the course has implemented raised cups as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19. But according to guidance set forth by the USGA, a temporary measure is in place to accept scores played under these conditions as official rounds for handicap purposes. How Guinness record certifiers will react is uncertain.
“It’s still a great story, especially with how much he has meant to this community,” Adams said.
Regardless of whether he officially has set a record, Atwood’s round will be remembered as extraordinary for several reasons. A fixture in the Boone area, Atwood plays in a dogfight game with a group made up primarily of Christian men multiple times each week. During the winter and fall, there normally are about 15-20 players. In the summer, a few Floridians flee to the cool of the mountains and that number grows to 30-35. The “young guys” of the group are in their 60s.
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