AMERICAN Golf, Europe’s largest golf retailer is launching its latest annual search to find Britain’s biggest hitters and the 2017 American Golf Long Drive champion.

The hunt is on nationwide to find the king (and queen) of the swingers, men and women who can drive a golf ball the greatest distance in the UK. The winners will also book themselves a place at the World Long Drive Championships in Oklahoma, USA with a $270,000 prize up for grabs.

Those who think they have a big swing in them should get down to American Golf based at Wallop Drive from today until Monday.

There they will be able to participate by taking six computer-measured shots at success, with their longest shot distance submitted as an entry.

The competition will be in split into three categories, under-45, over 45s and Ladies and is completely free to enter.

Last year, Lucas Dornan from Essex, posted a drive of 365 yards to be crowned American Golf Long Drive Champion 2016.

His distance was further than distances achieved at most major championships.

Dan Gathercole, marketing and communications director at American Golf, said: “Long drive really appeals to those who may never have considered picking up a golf club before – it’s exciting, fast-paced and accessible. We’d encourage those even with a limited interest in golf to give it a go, it’s a very different experience to the traditional game.

“Long drive is helping to grow the sport by removing barriers that may discourage people trying golf and we’re excited to introduce it to sports fan and none sports fans alike across the country.”

The leading two competitors in each of the three categories from each store will qualify to a regional final, taking place at Golf Shows hosted by American Golf in Manchester, London and Scotland, with an Irish Regional Qualifier to be held in the Dundrum Store.

Qualifiers from the regional events will progress to the national final to be held at Heythrop Park Resort on Friday August 4, where they will compete for a place in the World Long Drive Final and the chance to become the American Golf Long Drive Champions.

For further information go to americangolf.co.uk