Veteran Golfers Conquer Sweltering Conditions as Flight Champions Emerge at RTJ Grand National Links Course
OPELIKA, Ala. | Alabama's summer heat delivered a formidable challenge Saturday, but the Veterans Golf Association's competitors proved equally determined during Day 1 of the VGA Alabama Tour stop at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail's Grand National Links Course.
With heat indices climbing into the upper 90s and humidity blanketing East Alabama, 58 veteran golfers battled not only one of the state's premier golf courses but also the demanding weather conditions that tested endurance throughout the day.
By the time players made their way back to the clubhouse, many shared a common feeling—relief.
"The heat was relentless," tournament organizers noted, as golfers relied on hydration and perseverance to navigate one of the most physically demanding rounds of the season.
Despite the conditions, several competitors delivered standout performances to claim their respective flight championships.
Leading the way in the Veteran divisions was Kristofferson Nunez of Destin, Florida, who captured the Veteran A Flight title with a score of 88. In one of the day's strongest performances, Trey Long of Opelika fired a 76 to win the Veteran B Flight, while Paul Wells of Canton, Georgia, secured the Veteran C Flight championship with an 87.

