Linked By Golf

In this special year-end recap, we look back on some of the most memorable stories and conversations from Linked By Golf in 2025 — moments that captured the spirit, humour, history, and emotion of the game.From unexpected encounters on Scottish links, to unforgettable Open Championship memories, to deeply personal reflections that show just how much golf can mean, this episode celebrates the stories that linger long after the round is finished.If any of these moments resonate, we’d encourage you to scroll back and listen to the full episodes for the complete conversations.A chance meeting with a golfer sleeping in his van that turns into one of the most memorable filming days of the yearBehind-the-scenes storytelling with Bogey Train Films and their open, unscripted approach to golf contentA remarkable journey through Open Championship qualifying and competing on the Old Course at St AndrewsFirst-hand memories of iconic Open moments, including Jack Nicklaus’ final Open and unforgettable Ryder Cup scenesDeeply personal reflections on golf, loss, family, and why some wins mean far more than scorecardsInsight into life at the heart of the game, from Dumbarnie Links to the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St AndrewsPete McLachlan — Bogey Train FilmsLloyd Saltman — Scottish golfer and Open Championship competitorJamie & Barrie Lewis — Crun GolfJohn Johnston — Amateur golfer and Senior Open qualifierIain Carter — BBC & The Chipping ForecastDavid Scott — General Manager at Dumbarnie Links & Honorary Professional of The R&AThis is a highlights-style recap — a reminder of the depth and character behind the conversations we’ve shared this year. For the full stories, head back through the feed and spend time with each episode in full.🎧 Enjoying Linked By Golf?Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss future episodes.📲 Follow the journey on Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024Thanks for listening — and for being part of the Linked By Golf story.

Two remarkable stories. Two amateur golfers. One extraordinary achievement.Kenny Gallagher and John Johnston share their unforgettable journeys to qualifying for the Senior Open Championship — moments that turned lifelong golfers into major championship competitors.From last-minute entries and one-round qualifiers, to standing on practice ranges beside legends like Colin Montgomerie, Tom Watson, Corey Pavin, Christy O’Connor Jnr, and more — this is what happens when opportunity meets belief.Kenny entered Senior Open qualifying almost on a whim after turning 50 — no expectations, minimal preparation, and no caddie arranged. One great round at Southport & Ainsdale changed everything.Highlights:• Entered qualifying “just for a laugh”• Finished 3rd in qualifying• First-ever seniors event was the Senior Open at Royal Birkdale• Practiced between Montgomerie and Corey Pavin• Met Tom Watson — his childhood hero• Learned first hand how narrow the margins are at the top levelKenny’s Reflection:“I went in just hoping not to embarrass myself — and I regret that. I wish I’d been braver.”John’s journey is one of resilience. After completely losing his game in his 40s, a simple swing thought reignited his love for golf — and ultimately led to qualifying for the Senior Open at Royal Portrush.Highlights:• Lost his game completely — nearly quit golf• Rediscovered his swing by accident on the range• Qualified at Portrush after finishing +3• Practiced alongside Isao Aoki, Christy O’Connor Jnr, and Tom Watson• Played in front of Open-sized crowds• Experienced the full reality of championship pressureJohn’s Reflection:“They’re not superheroes — just great golfers who treat everyone the same.”Big Takeaway:You don’t need a perfect journey — just belief, persistence, and the courage to take your chance when it appears.Why This Matters:These stories prove that golf can still deliver once-in-a-lifetime moments — at any age, from any background.🎧 Full episode available now📍 Follow on Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024#LinkedByGolf #SeniorOpen #GolfStories #AmateurGolf #ScottishGolf #GolfDreams #TomWatson #Montgomerie #OpenChampionship #NeverTooLate

In this episode, Alan Tait recounts two unforgettable moments in his golf career at Carnoustie. First, he shares the story behind his incredible 8-under-par 64 at the championship course in 1994—a course record that stood for 23 years. Alan describes the precision, focus, and composure that made that round possible, emphasizing how it was about smart play rather than miraculous shots.Just a year later, Alan had the surreal experience of playing a practice round at Carnoustie with Masters champion Ben Crenshaw and a young Tiger Woods, who had just won the US Amateur. He reflects on his nerves, the generosity and mentorship of these legends, and his first impressions of Tiger—predicting his future dominance long before the world did.This episode offers a rare glimpse into the moments that define a golf career, highlighting skill, opportunity, and unforgettable experiences on one of the game’s toughest courses.Highlights:Shooting 8-under-par 64 at Carnoustie in 1994, a course record that lasted 23 years.The calm, methodical approach Alan took to achieve perfection on a world-class course.Playing with Ben Crenshaw and Tiger Woods during a practice round a year later.First impressions of Tiger Woods and predicting his future success.Reflections on pressure, focus, and memorable career-defining moments.Key Quote:"If I could put that round in a jam jar and bottle it, I would. That feeling is what golf is all about." — Alan TaitListen to this episode for:A behind-the-scenes look at a historic round at Carnoustie.Insight into playing with legends like Crenshaw and Woods.Inspiration for golfers and sports fans about focus, opportunity, and making the most of special moments.Linked By Golf Podcast📸 Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024Alan Tait📸 Instagram: @golfprotait

In Part 2 of his fascinating conversation with host Ross McGuire, golfing legend Gary Wolstenholme MBE takes us back to the heart of his amateur championship victories — including his first win at Ganton in 1991.From early memories of childhood holidays in Scarborough to the mindset that shaped his success in national and international competition, Gary opens up about:The story behind his first Amateur Championship victoryHow familiarity and calm preparation helped him perform under pressureCompeting against America’s best, including a young Phil MickelsonLessons learned from representing England and GB&I at the highest levelThe dedication and discipline that kept him at the top of amateur golf for decadesIt’s another insightful and inspiring chat with one of golf’s true gentlemen — and a must-listen for anyone who loves the game’s history, strategy, and soul.💬 Follow & Connect🎧 Follow the podcast → @linkedbygolf2024Make sure to catch up on Part 1 if you haven’t already — and stay tuned for Part 3, where Gary dives deeper into representing England, the Walker Cup, and stories from the locker room.Hashtags:#LinkedByGolf #GaryWolstenholme #GolfPodcast #AmateurGolf #WalkerCup #GolfHistory #GantonGolf #GolfLegends #GolfLife #RossMcGuire #EnglandGolf #GolfInterview #GolfJourneySEO Keywords:Gary Wolstenholme MBE interview, Linked by Golf podcast, Ross McGuire golf podcast, Amateur Championship 1991 Ganton, Walker Cup stories, English amateur golf, GB&I golf team, Phil Mickelson amateur career, England Golf Union, golf mindset, golf history podcast, senior golf insights