Legends Emerge at Inaugural Pro Masters World Championships

The inaugural Pro Masters World Championships was a celebration of what it means to get better with age. Held at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan, this event marked a new era for disc golf, bringing together some of the most legendary players from around the world. What made this tournament so special was that every one of its six champions had previously won world titles before.

At the center of it all was Elaine King #3090, widely regarded as the Queen of Disc Golf. With an impressive resume that spans over two decades, including five Women's World Championships in 91', 92', 93', 94', and 97', as well as four Female Player of the Year awards in 90', 93', 94', and 97', Elaine has cemented her place in disc golf history. Her most recent win came at the 2017 Professional Women's Masters World Championship, a testament to her enduring skill and dedication.

Elaine's dominance on the course was matched only by her professionalism, sportsmanship, and kind demeanor. Fellow competitors were quick to praise her during award ceremonies, with Des Reading, a fellow Disc Golf Hall of Fame member, highlighting Elaine's exceptional character. In an exciting Final 9 showdown, Elaine faced off against Lesli Todd, but ultimately secured the win after making a crucial putt on the 9th hole.

In other divisions, Pete May #12700 emerged victorious in the Senior Legends category, claiming his second consecutive world title and third overall. His impressive record now includes three world titles, with his victories spanning across different age groups. Pete's consistency and skill earned him widespread respect from competitors and spectators alike.

Susan Stephens #10977, daughter of Donald Stephens #12889, added yet another world title to her collection in the Grandmasters Women division. With a strong performance throughout the week, Susan eventually pulled away from the field, securing a four-stroke victory at Riverside Park. Her win marked the 20th anniversary of her Advanced Women's World Championship triumph, which took place at the same venue in 1997.

David L. Greenwell, a Disc Golf Hall of Fame member and multiple-time world champion, continued his legacy by winning the Senior Grandmasters division for the third consecutive year. His impressive streak was far from easy to achieve, as he battled Kenny "Boo-Rad" Lee #14204 throughout the week. A dramatic showdown on the 9th hole ultimately sealed Greenwell's victory, capping off an incredible performance.

Ron Convers #9648 proved that age is indeed just a number as he repeated in the Grandmasters division for the second year in a row. His consistency and skill allowed him to maintain a large lead throughout the event, securing a four-stroke victory at Riverside Park. Ron's dedication to disc golf has made him a beloved figure in the community.

Barry Schultz #6840 took home his third world title in the Masters division, showcasing his remarkable skill under pressure. With a flawless performance on the Final 9 holes, Barry sealed his win with a score of -8, leaving no doubt about his dominance on the course. His victory marked another milestone in an illustrious career that has seen him win multiple world titles and awards.

The Pro Masters World Championships was a testament to the enduring spirit of disc golf's legends, who continue to inspire new generations with their skill, dedication, and passion for the game. As these champions took home their well-deserved titles, they left behind a lasting impact on the sport, reminding us all that age is just a number in the world of disc golf.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/2017mastersworlds/finals-recap