Gabi Powel captured hearts when, seated in the audience at a golf exhibition in Bogota, Colombia, last spring, she was unexpectedly asked by the announcer to take a few shots. Nonchalantly picking up her driver, Powel, to the crowd’s astonishment, started smashing 300-yard-plus drives down the range.
“I love that kind of moment,” Powel said. “People are not expecting me to hit it nearly that far.”
Unimaginably, just two years ago, Powel hadn’t anticipated hitting golf balls to that immense extent. The resident of Jupiter, Florida, and former top golfer at William T. Dwyer High School and Florida International University was known for her long hitter prowess.
But times changed, eventually leading to her involvement in the Long Drive Tour following a request from fellow competitor Antony Livingston. Enthused by her performance at the competition, Powel found herself tasting success and refocusing her career trajectory.
Gabi Powel of the United States watches her ball during the preliminary qualifying round of the World Long Drive Championship at Bobby Jones Golf Course on October 20, 2023, in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
As a long-driving contender, Powel required considerable strength and the right equipment to propel her aspirations. Earning accolades at various contests, she reflected on the thrilling journey that’s only just begun.
Another memorable moment in Powel’s journey was her participation in the Par-3 Tournament at Augusta National. While accompanying then-boyfriend PGA Tour winner Andy Svensson, she ended up hitting a shot which, although way beyond the intended area, expressed a part of her persona.
Gabi Powel holds the flag for her then-boyfriend, Adam Svensson, during the Par 3 Contest at The Masters golf tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Network
“We have an online mentorship program where young girls can talk to women who have played college golf and know the ins and outs,” Powel said.
Reflecting on the uniqueness and adrenaline rush of her endeavor, she conveyed, “It’s such an adrenaline rush,” says Powel. “It’s a feeling of, ‘Let’s go!’ You get so much confidence from hitting one perfect.”
And watching it disappear into the blue sky.
Daniel Miller takes readers to the greens with his passion for golf. He offers coverage of major golf tournaments, player achievements, and insights into the sport’s rich history, making him a trusted source for golf enthusiasts.
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