Ohio (AP) — A 93-year-old Ohio man wrapped up his nearly seven decades of golfing with his first hole-in-one.
There’s nothing sweeter in golf than making a hole-in-one from the tee. It’s a rare occurrence that takes a combination of skill, luck and just the right bounces.
For 93-year-old Ben Bender, that moment came in the final round of a lifetime of playing golf.
Ben Bender told The Zanesville Times Recorder “the Lord knew” this was his last round and gave him a hole-in-one. Bender aced the 152-yard third hole last April at Green Valley Golf Course in Zanesville with a 5-wood.
He said he was in awe watching it, but then his hip started bothering him, forcing him to stop after a few more holes. He then headed to the clubhouse, bringing his golfing career to a memorable end.
He says he hates giving up the game but knows he can’t play forever.
Bender began playing golf at the age of 28 after buying his clubs and a bag from the manager of a shoeshine store for $50 and hasn’t stopped playing with friends and co-workers since. Now, after a 66-year career, he’s calling it quits.
“I was lucky to play golf this long, but I never expected a hole-in-one,” he said. “It was the last time I was able to play, and I think God had a hand in this. I loved the game and hate to give it up, but I can’t play forever.” (AP)