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PGA of America 2009 National Teacher of the Year

Mike Bender Golf Academy

"One of America's Top 25 Golf Schools" - GOLF Magazine

Mike Bender Golf Academy

LPGA 2006 National Teacher of the Year

Mike Bender Golf Academy

"One of America's Top Five Greatest Teachers" - Golf Digest Magazine

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Byrd Wins Second in a Row
JANUARY 9, 2011, KAPALUA, Hawaii -- Jonathan Byrd had a silver trophy at his side and a lei draped around his neck, a winner Sunday in the Tournament of Champions, even if the playoff didn't end the way anyone imagined. The emotions went beyond his victory in the PGA TOUR's season opener when Robert Garrigus, the biggest hitter on TOUR, missed a 3-foot par putt on the second extra hole at Kapalua.
     Just over three months ago, Byrd thought he might lose his card for the first time in his career. He was outside the top 125 on the money list, and not much was going his way. Then came a hole-in-one in near darkness to win Las Vegas in a playoff, getting him to Maui for the Tournament of Champions. He made it two straight wins by closing with a 6-under 67, and winning in the playoff.
     "I can't sit here and not think about where I was toward the end of the season last year, fighting for my card," he said. "I'm just thankful, I'm overwhelmed, I'm grateful, all of the above."
     Mike Bender is Jonathan's Swing Coach and everyone at the Mike Bender Golf Academy congratulates Jonathan on his continued great play. This was the 15th victory on the major professional golf tours by Mike's students.
 

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