The Round of a Lifetime

Boyden Atwood, 89, holds the ball with which he shot 67 at Boone Golf Club. Photo: Courtesy of Boyden Atwood

Boyden Atwood’s normal Friday round with his pals two weeks ago at Boone (N.C.) Golf Club became the most unforgettable 18 holes he’s ever experienced.

The 89-year-old who typically finds himself shooting rounds in the high 70s or low 80s carded the lowest score of his life, a 4-under-par 67 from the red tees of his home course. The “senior tees” measure 5,096 yards at a course rating of 68.6.

“It’s the best round I’ve ever played,” Atwood said in his thick North Carolina accent, noting that his previous record was a 68 he shot on his 70th birthday. “I’ve had four holes-in-one in my life and I told my wife that this was a lot more exciting than them. I was nervous all the way until the drive home.”

Guinness World Records lists the lowest round below a golfer’s age as being set by John Powell on June 1, 2017. Powell, then 86 years old, shot a 64 at Indian Springs Golf Club in California.

Atwood’s round ties Powell...