HICKORY, NC — The Putt-Putt Fun Center in Hickory witnessed a spectacular display of skill and determination during the Hickory Christmas Classic Tournament, as Valdese’s Bryan Deal emerged victorious in stunning fashion. Deal’s thrilling comeback in a come-from-behind victory over three rounds and 54 holes on course one marked a memorable chapter in the world of Putt-Putt.
For those interested in upcoming tournaments, detailed information can be found on the company’s website: https://puttputt.com/hickory-nc.
After the completion of the first round, Pro Mini Golf Hall of Famer and PPA player Greg Newport from Icard, NC, showcased his prowess by holding a three-stroke lead. Newport, one of only four players in Putt-Putt tournament history to achieve a perfect 18, faced stiff competition from reigning (APA) N.C. State Champion Richard Miller of Hudson, NC, and newcomer Gavin Hoke from Hickory. Meanwhile, Bryan Deal found himself a few strokes behind in the top six, setting the stage for an intense competition.
Deal’s exceptional performance unfolded in the second round, where he recorded the lowest score of the day with an impressive 23. This remarkable feat narrowed the gap between him and the leader, positioning him ahead of Miller and other competitors. As the tournament entered its final round, Newport maintained control of the lead, but Deal was only one stroke behind, promising an exciting conclusion.
In a gripping finale, Deal continued his impressive run, scoring the second-lowest round of the day with a 24. This remarkable achievement granted him the lowest consecutive rounds of the tournament, securing a first-place finish. Deal edged out Miller by two strokes, who claimed the runner-up position, while Newport finished in third place, trailing by five strokes.
For Bryan Deal, this victory represents a significant milestone in his inaugural full season of competition in Putt-Putt. It adds another accolade to his resume, marking his very first singles tournament win. Noteworthy is Deal’s status as the current co-holder of the Best Ball single-round tournament record in Hickory, shared with teammate Miller. Furthermore, he earned recognition as the runner-up Best Ball Player of the Year, boasting the second-most tournament wins in 2023. Deal, alongside Miller, also clinched the title of the 2023 Hickory City Best Ball Champion.
The putting tournaments at the Putt-Putt Fun Center are public and open to everyone, offering an inclusive platform for enthusiasts of all skill levels to participate in the excitement of competitive putting.