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 year
Behind-the-scenes storytelling with Bogey Train Films and their open, unscripted approach to golf content
A remarkable journey through Open Championship qualifying and competing on the Old Course at St Andrews
First-hand memories of iconic Open moments, including Jack Nicklaus’ final Open and unforgettable Ryder Cup scenes
Deeply personal reflections on golf, loss, family, and why some wins mean far more than scorecards
Insight into life at the heart of the game, from Dumbarnie Links to the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews
Pete McLachlan — Bogey Train Films
Lloyd Saltman — Scottish golfer and Open Championship competitor
Jamie & Barrie Lewis — Crun Golf
John Johnston — Amateur golfer and Senior Open qualifier
Iain Carter — BBC & The Chipping Forecast
David Scott — General Manager at Dumbarnie Links & Honorary Professional of The R&A
This 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.
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Scott Henry takes us inside the week that changed his career in 2012 — from frustration on the greens to finding confidence at exactly the right moment. A practice-round eagle, momentum under pressure, and a playoff win that delivered his first real sense of financial security in professional golf.
This is a raw look at how belief, preparation, and timing can flip everything.
Key Moments:
• From struggling with the putter to rebuilding confidence
• The practice-round eagle that sparked a winning week
• Handling pressure playing alongside big names
• Why one win can change your entire outlook as a pro
• The fine margins between “nearly” and breakthrough
Big Takeaway:
If your skills are good enough, results will come — but only if you keep improving, make the right decisions off the course, and put yourself in the right environments.
Why It Matters:
Golf careers aren’t linear. Scott’s story is a reminder that momentum, belief, and one big moment can open doors — but staying there requires growth.
🎧 Full episode available now
📍 Follow: @linkedbygolf2024
#LinkedByGolf #GolfPodcast #ProGolf #GolfStories #BehindTheScenesGolf #GolfMindset #TourLife #GolfConfidence #ScottHenry
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 level
Kenny’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 pressure
John’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
After 15 years on the tour, Alastair Forsyth shares his journey from professional golfer to coach. In this episode, he talks about why he chose coaching over travel-heavy roles, his approach to helping golfers of all levels, and how his experience on tour informs his teaching.
Highlights include:
Transitioning from tour life to coaching.
The importance of simplicity in swing advice.
Adapting lessons for beginners, amateurs, and top players.
Memorable moments, like helping an 85-year-old golfer keep enjoying the game.
The rewards of seeing players succeed and stay engaged with golf.
Exciting news: Ally has just been nominated for Coach of the Year!
Follow us on Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
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 Tait
Listen 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: @linkedbygolf2024
Alan Tait
📸 Instagram: @golfprotait
In this episode of Linked by Golf, Alan Tait takes us behind the scenes of his journey chasing a European Tour card. From winter practice sessions to Florida mini-tours, Alan shares the highs and lows of pursuing professional golf at the highest level.
He reflects on his peak year in 1996—winning the Scottish PGA Order of Merit and the Scottish PGA Match Play—leading up to the nerve-wracking European Tour Qualifying School at San Roque Club in Spain. Alan recounts the intense pressure of the final rounds, the near misses, and the mental toughness it takes to compete with seasoned tour professionals.
Hear his candid take on life as a “journeyman pro,” the reality of competing on tour, and the lessons he learned about confidence, resilience, and knowing when to step back. A must-listen for golf fans and anyone chasing their own big dreams.
Highlights:
How Alan funded his early career with mini tours and winter practice.
Winning the Scottish PGA Order of Merit and match play in 1996.
The tension and pressure of the European Tour Qualifying School.
Learning from veteran “journeyman” pros and realizing the level of European Tour golf.
Reflection on confidence, setbacks, and knowing when a chapter in your career ends.
Key Quote:
"Even if you fail out there, if you get on tour, you're a damn good player. You’ve got the mental strength to compete at that level." — Alan Tait
Listen to this episode for:
A deep dive into the realities of professional golf beyond the glamour.
Inspiration for anyone pursuing ambitious goals.
Lessons in resilience, perseverance, and handling pressure under the spotlight.
Linked By Golf Podcast
📸 Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
Alan 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 victory
How familiarity and calm preparation helped him perform under pressure
Competing against America’s best, including a young Phil Mickelson
Lessons learned from representing England and GB&I at the highest level
The dedication and discipline that kept him at the top of amateur golf for decades
It’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 → @linkedbygolf2024
Make 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 #GolfJourney
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In this episode of Linked By Golf, host Ross McGuire sits down with returning guest and PGA Professional Scott Borrowman, one of Scotland’s most energetic and forward-thinking golf coaches.
Based out of the Stirling Golf Club “Thunderdome,” Scott has built a reputation for helping golfers move better, swing faster, and understand the real relationship between movement quality and speed.
We dive into:
Scott’s experiences at the Palmer Cup in 2008, playing against players such as Billy Horschel & Ricky Fowler
Why golfers shouldn’t be afraid to swing with intent
The myths and misunderstandings around “hitting it hard”
How mobility, strength, and range of motion influence your swing
The importance of movement quality before chasing speed
Practical advice for golfers who want to improve without fear or confusion
Stories and lessons from the coaching bay
If you’re looking to unlock more clubhead speed, improve your movement patterns, or simply enjoy honest coaching chat from someone who lives and breathes the game, this episode delivers a ton of value and insight.
Ross McGuire
Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
Scott Borrowman
Instagram: @scottborrowmangolf
Please follow, subscribe, share, and leave a review — it genuinely helps more golfers discover the show and the stories behind the people who love this game.
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In this episode of Linked By Golf, Ross McGuire sits down with former PGA Tour pro and Presidents Cup legend Nick O’Hern for a deep dive into the mindset, techniques, and stories behind elite golf performance.
Nick opens up about his unconventional putting switch — moving from left-handed long putting to right-handed short putting — a bold change that raised eyebrows on tour but transformed his game.
We also explore:
The anchoring ban and how it reshaped Nick’s approach to putting
Why your dominant hand could be the secret to better strokes
Ryder Cup reflections and European pride
Ross’s own putting transformation inspired by Nick
Nick’s legendary match play victories over Tiger Woods, including at the WGC Match Play Championship
Key Takeaways:
Feel Over Tradition: Experimentation and natural feel can trump conventional techniques.
Handedness Matters: Understanding your dominant hand can unlock your ideal putting stroke.
Ryder Cup Passion: Insights into the pride and intensity of international match play.
Inspiration in Action: Learn how Nick’s journey inspired Ross and why trying new techniques fuels growth.
Whether you’re looking to improve your putting, gain tour-level insights, or hear stories of beating Tiger Woods, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable lessons.
Stay Linked:
Follow on Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
Subscribe on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform
Share your putting story using #LinkedByGolf
Connect with Nick O’Hern:
Talk Birdie To Me Podcast: Spotify/Apple Podcasts
YouTube: Talk Birdie To Me
Instagram: @talkbirdietome
In this first part of a special series, host Ross McGuire sits down with one of England’s most successful amateur golfers — Gary Wolstenholme MBE.
Before turning professional at 48, Gary built a legendary amateur career featuring multiple Walker Cup appearances, national titles, and decades representing Great Britain & Ireland. In this episode, he reflects on:
The moment he finally decided to turn pro and join the Senior Tour
Lessons learned from decades competing at the highest level
Stories from team events, rivalries, and camaraderie
How persistence and passion fuelled a career that defied expectation
The mindset that helped him transition from elite amateur to professional winner
Filled with humour, honesty, and nostalgia, this opening chapter sets the tone for a fascinating multi-part conversation with one of golf’s true gentlemen.
💬 Follow & Connect
🎧 Follow the podcast → @linkedbygolf2024
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a golfing friend and make sure you’re following so you don’t miss Part 2, where Gary dives deeper into his amateur match play career.
Hashtags:
#LinkedByGolf #GaryWolstenholme #GolfPodcast #AmateurGolf #WalkerCup #SeniorTour #GolfInterview #GolfLegends #GolfLife #RossMcGuire #GolfStories #GolfJourney #EnglandGolf
Keywords:
Gary Wolstenholme MBE, Linked by Golf podcast, Ross McGuire golf podcast, Walker Cup GB&I, Senior Tour golf, English amateur golf, England Golf Union, professional golfer journey, golf stories UK, golf interview, golf longevity, golf career transition
🎧 Episode Description
This week on Linked by Golf, host Ross McGuire chats with Ross Kellett (@rossk59) — a professional golfer from Motherwell, Scotland who made the journey from junior golf to the Challenge Tour.
Ross opens up about how he fell in love with the game at Colville Park Golf Club, why he chose golf over hockey as a teenager, and what it’s really like chasing the dream of professional golf.
From early memories on the course to life on tour, this episode gives a genuine look into the dedication, mindset, and experiences that shape a modern Scottish golfer.
🎧 Follow the podcast → @linkedbygolf2024⛳
Follow Ross Kellett → @rossk59
Subscribe, rate, and share to help more golfers get Linked by Golf.
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#LinkedByGolf #RossKellett #GolfPodcast #ScottishGolf #ChallengeTour #EuropeanTour #ProGolfer #GolfLife #GolfJourney #MotherwellGolf #GolfInterview #RossMcGuire #GolfScotland #ScottishSport #GolfStories
This week on Linked by Golf, Ross sits down with Colin Gray – founder of Alitu and ThePodcastHost.com – to talk about the links between golf, storytelling, and community building.
Colin shares his own golfing background as a member at Inverness Golf Club, how the game connects people in surprising ways, and why those same principles apply to podcasting. From teeing off in Scotland to helping thousands of creators launch and grow their shows, Colin brings a fresh perspective on passion, persistence, and play.
Some of my favourite moments from this conversation:
[04:15] Colin shares how he first picked up the game and what drew him to golf.
[15:40] The surprising parallels between podcasting and golf — from practice and patience to building confidence.
[28:10] Why community matters most, whether you’re teeing it up at your local club or starting a show with Alitu.
Whether you’re a golfer, podcaster, or someone who just loves connecting with others, this conversation will leave you inspired to find your own fairways in life.
🎙 Alitu – Podcast Maker (all-in-one tool to record, edit & publish your podcast)
📚 ThePodcastHost.com (guides, resources & coaching for podcasters)
🐦 Follow Colin on Twitter/X: @thepodcasthost
Connect with Ross
📸 Instagram: @Linkedbygolf2024
In this episode of Linked by Golf, Ross sits down with brothers Jamie and Barrie Lewis, founders of Crun Golf — a brand bringing fun, family, and fresh energy into golf merchandise.
Jamie and Barrie share how Crun was born from their love of both golf and football, and how that mix of sporting passion shapes the way they design products that connect with golfers of all levels. We talk about the role of community, the importance of making golf more approachable, and the lessons they’ve learned running a family business together.
This conversation covers:
👉 Learn more about Crun at crunsports.com
👉 Big thanks to True Linkswear for supporting the show — check them out at TrueLinkswear.uk for shoes that will truly help you Enjoy The Walk.
True Linkswear — https://truelinkswear.uk
Podcast Instagram - @linkedbygolf2024
In this short extract episode, we hear from Oliver Wilson on his experience of the Ryder Cup at Valhalla in 2008 with Nick Faldo as his Captain.
Oli was paired with Henrik Stenson for the Foursomes and recalls how a shaky start was soundly turned around into a great victory.
He also discusses the famous Kentucky Derby loving Boo Weekley running down the first hole after his drive.
The show is supported by TRUELinkswear, visit truelinkswear.uk to find out more
Show Social Media:
Follow the show on Instagram: @LinkedByGolf2024
In this episode, I’m joined by returning guest Pete McLachlan from Bogey Train Films.
Pete takes us inside his epic challenge of playing 95 holes in a single day across the Isle of Arran, sharing stories from the adventure, the value of the Arran Golf Pass, and why overlooked courses can often provide the best golfing memories.
We talk about:
The madness and magic of playing 95 holes in a day.
The unique charm of Arran’s 7 courses — from deer on fairways to mountain-top greens.
Why the Arran Golf Pass might be the best value in Scottish golf.
How Bogey Train Films is inspiring golfers to explore beyond the big-name venues.
This episode of Linked By Golf is brought to you with support from our partners:
TRUELinkswear.uk – the latest in performance golf shoes and apparel.
CRUNSports.com – custom merchandise for any sporting occasion.
LomondGolfTours.com – bespoke Scottish golf tours tailored to you.
Follow Bogey Train Films
YouTube: Bogey Train Films
Instagram: @bogeytrainpedro
Courses Featured in This Episode
On the Isle of Arran (Arran Golf Pass)
Whiting Bay Golf Club – 18 holes with spectacular views over the Firth of Clyde.
Lamlash Golf Club – 18 holes, home of the annual Lamlash Open.
Brodick Golf Club – 18 holes, beside the ferry terminal.
Corrie Golf Club – 9 holes, immaculate greens set against a mountain backdrop.
Lochranza Pitch & Putt – a short course with roaming wild deer.
Shiskine Golf & Tennis Club – 12 seaside holes, one of Pete’s favourites.
Machrie Bay Golf Club – 18 holes finishing over the road and down by the beach.
In this episode, Ross McGuire sits down with Mike Harris, founder of The Loop and former editor of Golf Monthly, to talk about how creators, influencers, and new media are reshaping the world of golf.
We cover:
How golf creators like Rick Shiels, Peter Finch & Mark Crossfield changed the media landscape
Why brands are shifting their marketing to more relatable figures
The opportunities for collaboration between traditional media and influencers
What inspired Mike and his colleagues to launch The Loop
The growing excitement around golf communities and content-driven engagement
This is a must-listen for anyone interested in golf, media, and the future of sports content.
Follow the podcast for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and future guests:
Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/linkedbygolf
In this episode of Linked By Golf, we’re joined by John Johnston — a lifelong golfer whose story reminds us that the game’s greatest achievements aren’t always about scorecards or championships.
A former Maths teacher from Wishaw and proud member of Wishaw Golf Club, John has spent decades playing the game, collecting stories, and building connections through golf.
He shares highlights from his journey, from competing in the Senior Open to shooting an outrageous 61 at the age of 68. But as he reveals, his proudest golfing moment came from something far deeper — honouring his late brother by winning a championship with his clubs.
It’s a conversation about memory, resilience, and the bonds that make golf so much more than just a game.
Links & Resources:
Follow the pod on Instagram → @LinkedByGolf2024
Shop the latest shoes & apparel → True Linkswear UK
Plan your next golf adventure → Lomond Golf Tours
If John’s story resonated with you, make sure you follow Linked By Golf wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode.
In this episode of Linked By Golf, host Ross McGuire chats with Aaron Stewart, the creative mind behind ASSL Golf on YouTube and TikTok.
Aaron reveals how a lockdown boredom experiment turned into one of the most entertaining golf channels online — proving that golf content can be hilarious, relatable, and far from traditional.
Aaron shares the full story of starting ASSL Golf with friend Scott Lorimar, from chipping ping-pong balls into pans during COVID to filming laugh-filled rounds on Scottish fairways. He opens up about the challenges of shooting golf videos, the trial-and-error of content creation, and how they built a loyal golf audience without sticking to the standard “instructional” format.
We cover:
How to start a golf YouTube channel (even with no experience)
The early days of golf TikTok and why the timing mattered
Why Lossiemouth’s Moray Golf Club is one of Scotland’s hidden gems
The role of humour in growing a golf audience
Behind-the-scenes struggles of filming golf trick shots
Building a golf brand that stays authentic and fun
Whether you’re a golfer looking for entertainment, a fan of golf YouTubers, or curious about creating sports content, this episode is packed with insights and laughs from one of Scotland’s most creative golf personalities.
Follow Linked By Golf
🎙 Linked By Golf on all major podcast platforms
📸 Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
Follow Aaron & ASSL Golf
In this episode of Linked By Golf, we head to the Ayrshire coast to explore one of Scotland’s great courses — Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club.
Our guest is David Addison, General Manager of the club and a passionate steward of its history and future.
David walks us through Barassie’s deep roots in Scottish golf, its transformation into a championship venue, and the incredible amateur talent it has produced over the years — including multiple Walker Cup players.
We also touch on what makes Barassie such a special golfing experience today, from its testing links layout to its vibrant club culture.
Whether you’re a student of golf history or just love hearing about courses with soul, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
👤 Guest:
David Addison
General Manager, Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club
📍 Topics Covered:
The founding and evolution of Kilmarnock Barassie
Barassie’s role in Scottish amateur golf
Stories behind its Walker Cup alumni
What sets the course apart today
The future of the club and its role in modern golf
🛍️ Sponsor:
This episode is brought to you by TRUE Linkswear UK.
Check out the latest range at truelinkswear.uk and support the brands that support the pod.
In this episode of Linked By Golf, host Ross McGuire is joined by Chris Bell, the Director of Membership at The National KC, a world-class golf course designed by the legendary Tom Watson.
Before stepping into the world of golf, Chris represented Scotland in badminton—a testament to his competitive spirit and athleticism. He shares how he eventually made the switch to golf after discovering an old Dunlop 9-iron in his dad’s shed, and how that moment sparked a lifelong journey that’s led him to one of the most exciting roles in American golf today.
Ross and Chris dive into what makes The National KC so unique, the importance of creating community within a golf club, and the unforgettable day Chris met and played with Tom Watson himself.
Instagram: @chrisbellgolf
The National KC: @thenationalkc
Check out Chris’s top post—a proud photo with Tom Watson.
Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
Host: Ross McGuire