Where did you go to school?
I went to Cuiken Primary School in Penicuik, Midlothian, Scotland and then to Penicuik High School.
What sports did you take part in when you were at school?
At primary school I played badminton and football. I also enjoyed skiing and took up golf when I was about 8 years old.
Why did you start to play golf?
I remember, when I was about 7 years old, my father taking my brothers, Elliot and Zack, and me to a field near where we lived and giving us some old clubs and an assortment of balls. Because we have always been competitive, we invented some games on the field which make us all improve our shots very quickly. I think I played my first round on a real golf course with Elliot and Zack when I was 8.
Where did you play your golf?
I started playing with my brothers at West Linton Golf Club, near Penicuik. I joined Prestonfield Golf Club when I was 12 and soon after joined Lothianburn and Kilspindie in East Lothian. When I was 15 the three of us joined the new club at Craigielaw in East Lothian and we have been members there since then. I was given honorary life membership of Craigielaw in 2005.
Tell us about your early golfing career
I got my first handicap (20 I think) when I was 12 years old and won the second medal I took part in at Prestonfield. When I was 13 I won a skills test run by our local golf association and they sent me for coaching with Colin Brooks at the Braid Hills Golf Centre in Edinburgh. Colin has been my coach ever since. I started winning some club and local events and was picked for the Scottish Boys’ Team for their match against France, Italy and Sweden when I was 17. Later that year (2003) I was selected for the GB&I team which won the Jacques Leglise Trophy at Lahinch.
Where would you say you made your ‘breakthrough’?
For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be a successful golfer and I think I have progressed and improved as a golfer each year. However, when I think back, while I won the Scottish Boys’ Stroke-play Championship at Prestwick in 2003, I think that the big leap forward for me was at the Astoria Event in 2004 when I was a member of the Scottish Team which won the European Youths Team Championships.
What has been the biggest buzz in golf so far?
That’s a tough one to answer. Obviously representing my country is near the top. But I get a buzz whenever I win; whether it is the three junior championships I won at Kilspindie, the successes in big amateur events in the last couple of years, or beating my brothers at Craigielaw – I enjoy competition and always get a buzz from winning. But if I had to decide, taking part in the 2005 Open Championship and two Walker Cups are right up there though.
Who have been your greatest influences?
Without doubt my mum, dad and brothers. We are a very close family and we all work hard as a team to make sure that we can be successful. Its important to have a good team around you to support you when things are not going well as well as to enjoy your successes with you. My coach Colin Brooks has also been a big influence in my progress as a golfer.
What advice would you give for any budding young golfers?
Work hard, get a good team around you, get a coach you trust and enjoy it!
Where do you play and practice on a regular basis?
My brothers and I have joined Archerfield Links Golf Course. It is so peaceful there and the practice facilities are second to none. There are two courses, so I really get the chance to play and practice all kind of shots. Archerfield is unique because so many Pros are also members so we can enjoy a round together.
