HICKORY, NC — The annual Hickory Christmas Classic Tournament at the Putt-Putt Fun Center unfolded with breathtaking excitement, culminating in a spectacular comeback by Valdese native Bryan Deal. Staging a thrilling performance over three rounds and 54 holes on course one, known for hosting prestigious PPA and APA tournaments, Deal emerged as the champion in a stunning fashion.
For more information on upcoming tournaments, interested individuals can visit the company’s website: https://puttputt.com/hickory-nc.
After the completion of the initial round, Pro Mini Golf Hall of Famer and PPA player Greg Newport of Icard, NC, took an early lead with a three-stroke advantage. Newport, one of only four players in Putt-Putt tournament history to achieve a perfect 18, faced tough competition from reigning (APA) N.C. State Champion Richard Miller of Hudson, NC, and newcomer Gavin Hoke from Hickory. Meanwhile, Bryan Deal found himself just a few strokes behind in the top six, setting the stage for a thrilling contest.
In a dramatic turn of events during the second round, Deal showcased exceptional skill, recording the lowest round of the day with an impressive score of 23. This outstanding performance not only narrowed the gap between him and the leader but also positioned him ahead of Miller and other fierce competitors. Heading into the third and final round, Newport retained control of the lead, with Deal trailing closely by just one stroke.
As the tournament reached its climax, Deal continued his remarkable performance, scoring the second-lowest round of the day with a 24. This feat secured him the lowest consecutive rounds of the tournament, ultimately propelling him to a first-place finish. Deal edged out Miller by two strokes, securing the runner-up position, while Newport finished in third place, trailing by five strokes.
For Bryan Deal, this victory marks a significant achievement in his first full season of Putt-Putt competition, adding another remarkable accolade to his burgeoning career. Notably, Deal is the current co-holder of the Best Ball single-round tournament record in Hickory, sharing the honor with teammate Miller. Additionally, he earned the title of the 2023 Hickory City Best Ball Champion alongside Miller, and secured the runner-up spot for Best Ball Player of the Year with the second-most tournament wins in 2023.
The Putt-Putt Fun Center invites the public to partake in the excitement of putting tournaments held throughout the year, promising an inclusive and thrilling experience for participants of all skill levels.
