Frank Bensel records seventh career ace to open Assistant PGA Professional Championship

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla – Three-time Champion Frank Bensel of Purchase, New York, recorded his seventh career hole-in-one Thursday in the opening round of the 41st National Car Rental Assistant PGA Professional Championship.

The 49-year-old PGA Assistant Professional at Century Country Club, Bensel used an 8-iron on the 172-yard No. 6 Hole of the Wanamaker Course at PGA Golf Club. He finished with a 3-under-par 69. It was his first ace since 2014, and second in a 72-hole competition.

“I hit it right to left, had a little bit of wind and it disappeared,” said Bensel.

MORE: Round 1 scores from Assistant PGA Pro Championship | Full coverage

Bensel, who captured the 2010, ’11 and ’13 Assistant PGA Professional Championships, easily has the most course knowledge among the 133 competitors representing 38 states. He competed at PGA Golf Club during its inaugural season of 1996.

“I really think it’s a great golf course and I enjoy playing it,” said Bensel. “I got used to the conditions down here, even though I’m not from Florida.

“I do have confidence in knowing the course and feeling good about my past rounds. It’s like a home game almost. It’s same for a lot of people who play here often.”

The 41st National Car Rental Assistant PGA Professional Championship concludes Sunday. The champion, if eligible, earns an exemption into the 2018 PGA Professional Championship. In addition, the top four finishers and ties will earn a berth in the 2018 National Car Rental Assistant PGA Professional Championship, if eligible.