Former Royal Marine Daniel Woods from Bury is preparing to undertake an extraordinary Guinness World Record attempt in support of Veterans’ Foundation.
The 35-year-old veteran will attempt to break the record for the most golf holes played in 24 hours, covering more than 105 miles on foot while completing over 425 holes in a single day.
Daniel’s world record attempt will take place at Pike Fold Golf Club, North Manchester, on 23-24 August.
Daniel served with 45 Commando after joining the Royal Marines in 2008 and deployed to Afghanistan in 2011. Since leaving the Armed Forces, he has remained passionate about supporting the
veteran community and raising awareness of the challenges many former service personnel face after military life.
His motivation for the challenge is deeply personal, having lost friends following their service.
“I joined the Royal Marines at 17, deployed to Afghanistan at 18, and by the time I left I’d achieved everything I set out to do,” said Daniel.
“The Royal Marines shaped who I am. The resilience and mindset I learned there are things I still carry with me every day.
“I’ve lost friends I served alongside since leaving the Forces. That’s something that stays with you.
“If I can raise awareness and help even one veteran get support, then every mile will be worth it.
“That’s the main reason I’m doing this challenge – to raise awareness of what people go through during and after service.”
A keen golfer and experienced endurance athlete, Daniel has spent months preparing through a combination of golf-specific training, strength and conditioning work, and long-distance running.
The challenge is far more demanding than a conventional round of golf. To break the existing record, Daniel must complete more than 425 holes within 24 hours, covering more than 105 miles on foot while maintaining a relentless pace from start to finish.
Unlike some endurance golf events, the attempt must comply with strict Guinness World Record criteria. The record must be completed on a regulation golf course measuring more than 6,000 yards, with all shots played according to the official Rules of Golf.
To achieve the record, Daniel estimates he will need to average around 18 holes per hour for the full 24-hour period. During a recent training session, he completed 92 holes in just four hours, giving him confidence that the target is achievable.
However, Daniel believes the biggest challenge will not be the golf itself but sustaining the physical and mental endurance needed to keep moving for more than 100 miles with little rest.
“Everyone tells me it’s impossible, but that just makes me want to do it even more,” Daniel said.
“Someone’s done it before, so it’s not impossible, and all I can do is give it my best shot.
“The biggest challenge is going to be the sheer length of it, as the challenge works out at over 100 miles.
“I’ve done marathons and ultra events before, but I’ve never done 100 miles like this.”
Jane Gurney, CEO of Veterans’ Foundation, said:
“Daniel’s challenge is an extraordinary test of endurance, determination and commitment. We are incredibly grateful for his support and for his and passion to raising awareness of the issues facing veterans after service. The funds raised through this remarkable effort will help us continue supporting even more veterans and their families across the UK.”
Veterans’ Foundation is proud to support Daniel’s remarkable fundraising effort, which aims to raise vital funds for veterans and their families across the UK.
If you’d like to support his amazing challenge, follow this link: https://www.justgiving.com/page/dannys-24hourgolfchallenge
