Ryan Peake is currently a prominent name on the golf scene, especially because of his unique and interesting story, which has delighted not only golf fans, but also sports fans on the global map. Namely, this former member of the outlawed motorcycle gang won the New Zealand Open, with a one stroke lead.
It is interesting that Peake served five years in prison, and when he was released from prison six years ago, he apparently devoted himself to golf.
Although there were several quality golfers in this tournament who were serious favorites, Peake managed to win in tough competition. With this victory, he secured his ticket to this year’s Open.
In an interview with the media, he could not hide his delight at such a feat, stressing that he had expected this outcome of the situation. He is proud of it because many had faith in him, and the most important thing is that he believed in himself as much as others believed in him.
“It’s life-changing,” – he said, as quoted by Independent.
“I always knew I could do it, it was just a matter of time when I was going to do it. My coach, my family, my team, everyone believed. Most of all, I believed as well.
Just changed my life. This is what I do, I want to be here and just play golf. The (back)story is what it is, but I’m just out here playing golf.”
Ryan Peake’s childhood
He trained in the sport as a kid, dreaming of one day joining the best golfers in the world. However, life took him down a completely different path, which the 31-year-old probably regrets.
He gave up golf as a teenager and joined a motorcycle club, which is labelled criminal.
Richie Smith, a golf coach, contacted him in prison, and after his release they began working together.
Peake believes that he won just by coming to this tournament.
Tennis World USA