Oliver Wilson Q&A: Who would make up his dream fourball?
How did you first get into golf?
My dad had always wanted to play golf, so on his 40th birthday we started together at Oakmere Park and got hooked straight away.
What is your best achievement to date as a professional?
I’m immensely proud of my win at the Dunhill Links, however I would have to say qualifying for the 2008 Ryder Cup is my best achievement to date. I missed a Major and the World Golf Championships and still qualified, showing how consistent I played that year.
What do you do to relax when not playing golf?
I love to ski but only get a chance once a year, so the rest of the time I spend at home either working out/yoga or in the garden. I’ve reached that age where I’m comfortable saying that!
What are your goals for the remainder of the 2016 season?
My main goal is to reach a level of consistency and retain my card. I’m capable of much more but if I can get there quickly then I can push on and see how far I can get for the rest of the year.
Who do you get along with best on tour?
I tend to hang out with the English guys mainly.
What would be a dream fourball pairing (past or present)?
Ben Hogan, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods.
What’s the best thing about golf?
The fact that it is more than a job, it gives you the opportunity to learn more about yourself than most other jobs. It’s a lifestyle and you get to experience feelings and situations that transcend golf. Performing well against the best in the world in front of millions of people is as good as it gets.
What’s your best tip for amateur golfers?
When preparing to hit your shot, actually take a few seconds to think about your target then continue to focus on that. Fill your brain 100 per cent with what you want to do, not what you don’t.
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Tom Irwin
Tom is a lifetime golfer, now over 30 years playing the game. 2023 marks 10 years in golf publishing and he is still holding down a + handicap at Alwoodley in Leeds. He has played over 600 golf courses, and has been a member of at least four including his first love Louth, in Lincolnshire. Tom likes unbranded clothing, natural fibres, and pencil bags. Seacroft in Lincolnshire is where it starts and ends.