Stenson breaks record with 721-yard drive

It is a lie you will rarely see at your local course, but hitting from the wing of a Etihad Airways aircraft Henrik Stenson catipulted himself into the record books. Stenson?s drive was measured at 721-yards down the runway at the Abu Dhabi International Airport.

The ?Swing on the Wing? event was organised by Etihad to promote the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, which starts on Thursday. The drive broke Ian Poulter?s 2006 record by 25-yards.

?This was an unbelievable experience. I saw pictures of Ian Poulter and Paul Casey from last year and was thrilled to have the chance to take on Ian?s record. I am just glad I was able to sneak past it,? said Stenson.

The Swede was joined by long-drive world record holder Paul Slater and five amateur golfers. Over 8,000 players from around the world entered qualifying for the event with the winners coming from Dubai, England, Germany and India. The English winner was James Efde who is a member of Wentworth.

?This has been the experience of a lifetime, to stand on the wing of a plane, in such a wonderful setting, and drive golf balls into the horizon. To be able to do it alongside Henrik Stenson was also a dream-come-true. I am now looking forward to relaxing and watching the professionals in action at Abu Dhabi Golf Championships,? sain Efde.

Stenson begins as one of the favourites for the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship after his second place finish, behind Chris DiMarco, in last year's event.