Defending champion Eugenio Chacarra delivered an early statement by winning the Hero Shot Challenge ahead of the 2026 Hero Indian Open at DLF Golf and Country Club.
The Spaniard topped a 10-player field in the pre-tournament shootout, overcoming India’s Rayhan Thomas in the final to signal his readiness for the title defence.
The contest, held at the ninth green, featured a knockout format beginning with a round of 10, followed by semi-finals and a final.
Players hit from 90 yards in the opening round, with 60 seconds to play up to nine shots. The semi-finals moved to 100 yards, while the final was contested from 110 yards, both without a time limit but requiring a minimum number of shots to qualify for points.
Rayhan Thomas impressed throughout and finished runner-up, while also producing a standout moment with the first 100-point shot in the opening round.
The Hero Shot Challenge forms part of the traditional build-up to the Hero Indian Open, adding a fan-focused element ahead of the main event.
The tournament proper tees off this week at DLF Golf and Country Club, featuring a strong international field competing for a $2.55 million prize purse.
Photo – Hero MotoCorp
