August 14, Rochester, New York -
After years of struggle, Michigan’s Ron Russell managed to outshoot nine-time consecutive winner Ken Climo by four strokes to become the 1999 Men’s Disc Golf World Champion.
“This is the greatest day of my life,” said a stunned Russell after Saturday’s Final Nine at Chili Disc Golf Course, just outside of Rochester, New York. “I’ve worked real hard to get here, and the moment is still sinking in.”
It was easily one of the most exciting contests in the history of disc golf. The pair had been battling back and forth over the week-long tournament, until Russell managed to gain and hold a two stroke lead on Thursday. He never looked back.
Russell’s best round of the week was a -12, and worst full round an incredible -6. He finished -80 for 9.5 rounds, averaging -8.42 per round.
Florida native Ken Climo took the defeat like a true champion, flashing his winning smile throughout the Final Nine despite trailing by as many as four strokes, where he finished. “I feel good about the outcome,” said Climo. “I didn’t lose this week; I was beaten. I played my best golf, and Ron shot better. He deserves it.”
It seems fitting that Ron Russell -- PDGA #9999 -- would bag his first win in 1999. Russell's victory earns him over $4300 in cash and prizes, along with a reported $5000 bonus from his sponsor, Discraft.
Early Round Tensions
While sportsmanship reigned on Saturday, tensions were high between Russell and Climo early in the week.
The multiple-pool format allowed players in different pools to watch each other’s rounds, and Climo took the opportunity to check out Russell and other players during the afternoon round at Genesee Valley Park on the first day of singles competition.
“I wasn’t really working him, but Ron seemed to think I was there to put the pressure on,” said Climo. “There were other players I wanted to watch too.”
Russell reacted strongly to Climo’s presence, firing glares at Climo that were dripping with animosity. At one point, he jerked his arms open and mouthed “WHAT??!!” across the fairway toward Climo, who always kept what would otherwise be considered a respectful distance. Russell was clearly letting the situation affect his mental game, and was audibly muttering to himself for the remainder of the round.
Wednesday was payback time, and Russell showed up to shadow Climo’s late round. The tension between the two friends was quickly growing.
Cover Story continued...
August 14, Rochester, New York -
After years of struggle, Michigan’s Ron Russell managed to outshoot nine-time consecutive winner Ken Climo by four strokes to become the 1999 Men’s Disc Golf World Champion.
