Mai's Journey in Long Drive and Beyond

Hi everyone,

I’m Mai, and I’m reaching out for your support as I take a crucial step in my long drive career this year. I am someone who is very risk-averse. I don't gamble or place bets unless I feel like I have some control. And right now, it is time for me to take that step and gamble for my future here in the States.

In the past year, I’ve put in a lot of effort and have been fortunate to win some long drive tournaments. While the financial return hasn’t always been positive, the opportunities that long drive has given me—especially my visa, which allows me to teach and connect with amazing coaches—have been invaluable.

Lately, I’ve been contemplating whether to compete in the final event of the year. I didn’t want to, as I thought winning two tournaments would be sufficient to build my case to stay in the states. But after a conversation with my visa attorney today, it’s clear that competing would really help build a solid case for my visa situation. The visa process is very expensive and lengthy; not getting the case approved means at least $10k spent for nothing.

Full transparency: the reality of long drive is that it’s not currently a profitable sport. Most athletes, including myself, struggle to cover travel costs. Despite my recent successes, breaking even hs been challenging.

World Long Drive organization is going through tough times, and as athletes, we often feel the impact directly. Since starting in 2021, regardless of being second in the world, I have had zero sponsorship—everything has been on my dime. Additionally, the organization lacks transparency about prize money, entry fees, and event dates, which has been really disorganized this year. One of the reason why I couldn’t prioritize my life to bet on something so uncertain.

Despite my hesitation, I realize it’s no longer about what I want, but rather what I need. I need to give myself an opportunity to compete in this championship for the sake of my future in the United States. I’m asking for your help through this GoFundMe to make this possible. I’ll be missing five days of work, staying in the cheapest Airbnb, renting the smallest car, and I’d walk there if I could. Whether it sounds like a lot or a little to you, any support would mean a lot to me.

I’ve detailed my expenses below to show you exactly what a long drive trip costs. Even a small contribution would be awesome to help me pay that golf equipment baggage fee. Thank you for considering supporting me in this crucial moment.

Expenses Breakdown:

* Entry Fee: $800

* Flight: $366 + Bag $90

* Accommodation: $360 ($72/night)

* Car Rental: $215 ($43/day)

* Transportation to and from airport at 4am in the morning: $133

* Coach Fee (based on last tournament): $500

* Food: I’d probably miss a meal or two when competing, so let’s say 13 meals in total; each costs $14 ($182)

* Miscellaneous: $350

* And opportunity cost is on me-

Thank you for your kindness and support. This tournament is now not just for myself, but it will be for you too.

Mai