LDA: Congratulations on your fine performance at the 2008 RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship. You went 415 yards in the quarterfinals and 412 yards in the semifinals. What were your thoughts entering the final match against Jamie Sadlowski?
Dewald: Knowing that Jamie had hit longest distances for the week, I knew I had to hit my best drive to win. I hit the second ball good, but did not get the distance I thought it would. I told myself to enjoy the moment and have fun!

LDA: What type of shot do you prefer?
Dewald: Straight as possible.

LDA: What driver setup did you use in the finals?
Dewald: Cobra Speed Pro D 4.5' with XXX - 1 inch tipped XXX House of Forged "WHUP-N-Shaft"

LDA: Describe your experience in Mesquite, Nevada.
Dewald: Awesome! I can't wait to return for next season. The worlds was a fantastic event and there are no words to describe the experience. LDA and RE/MAX has created a "larger than life" tournament with big things to come. Mesquite is one of the most beautiful places I ever visited and the perfect setting for this event.

LDA: How did you get involved in long drive?
Dewald: A fellow Professional golfer suggested I try the RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship as I am known to be a long hitter in the tournaments, I then tried it for the first time in May 2008 and won the second tournament I participated in and now I am hooked for life on long driving.

LDA: Do you play any other sports?
Dewald: Only golf.

LDA: You competed in 10-12 long drive events last year; was that a big help in Mesquite?
Dewald: Yes, long driving is as professional as normal tournament golf and experience counts a lot. These tournaments prepare you for the big event.

LDA: What kind of reception did you receive in South Africa?
Dewald: The sport is not well known in South Africa just yet, so reception was minimal. Golf Digest did publish an article in December 2008 issue. For now, the only TV coverage received was through ESPN and affiliates.

LDA: Where did you watch the telecast?
Dewald: We watched it in a sports pub while on holiday with friends and family, and it was an awesome show.

LDA: How many times have you qualified for the RE/MAX South African National Finals? RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship?
Dewald: 2008 was my first year.

LDA: Did finishing runner-up in both the 2008 RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship and the 2008 RE/MAX South African National Finals make you want those titles even more?
Dewald: Yes, I practice hard and compete to win, but for now I am happy with what I have achieved during 2008.

LDA: Have you been asked to do any shows or exhibitions?
Dewald: Yes, and I like it a lot. My latest exhibition was with Annika Sorenstam during opening of her new golf course in SA.

LDA: What are your plans?
Dewald: I want to move to America and win the RE/MAX WLDC. I want to become part of the LDA bigger picture.

LDA: What is the correct pronunciation of your name?
Dewald: Dewald - any way you say it, I stay the same person!

LDA: What's the farthest you've ever driven a golf ball?
Dewald: During official LDA tournament in South Africa, I hit a 464 yard drive.

LDA: Any differences in long drive competitions between the U.S. and South Africa?
Dewald: Yes the competition in America is stronger. Long drive in South Africa is still growing.

LDA: What is your workout regimen?
Dewald: 4 hours daily hitting long drivers and 2 hour gym session and 1 hour stretching.

LDA: What tips would you give someone new to the sport?
Dewald: Get the right equipment firstly and secondly to build a strong golf swing.

LDA: Anything else you would like to say?
Dewald: Long drive has the potential to become an Olympic event. Thank you to my Heavenly Father for the opportunity I've been given! My dad and lifelong coach. My mom, dad and sister, family and friends for their love and support. All the competitors and now friends I've met at the Worlds - Landon, Jamie, Jason, Vince (Pasta Man) just to name a few. The Cobra team, Ben and JJ, for the professional way they supported me! Robert from House of Forged for his support and commitment. Last but not least the LDA , Mesquite and RE/MAX!