Di Dougherty meets: John Parrott

When did you start playing golf?
Seriously, about 15 years ago. Before that it was just a casual thing.

What is your handicap and where do you play?
I’m currently playing off three and am privileged to play at Formby Golf Club, in Merseyside.

What’s the strength to your game?
The best part of my game would be my wedge play.

Who is the best golfer out of all your snooker player mates? We know many of them also play golf to a decent level…
Dennis Taylor might not be the best golfer, but, he’s definitely the best off a nine handicap!

Which do you find more stressful, playing golf or snooker?
Because both of them are individual sports they carry their own stresses.

Are both of the games similar in any way?
Obviously, they are both static ball games which is why most of the snooker boys can putt.

Do you ever get nervous when you are on the 1st tee?
All the time – I want to do well every time I play.

Do you tinker with your game much or are you more of a natural?
I spend a lot of time on the driving range and I also read avidly.

Who would be your favourite professional golfer to watch in action?
I could watch Paul Lawrie swing the club all day long.

Who is the best-dressed golfer?
I think that would have to be the Swedish Ryder Cup player Henrik Stenson.

Will Tiger win another Major?
Only if Butch Harmon answers the phone…

Who would be in your dream fourball?
I’m a bit nostalgic so I would go back in time.
I’d tee it up at Pebble Beach in California with Ben Hogan as my partner against Sam Snead and Byron Nelson.
It wouldn’t get much better than that.

After your success as a snooker player, how did you get into after-dinner speaking?
As a snooker player I always had a few stories to tell and it was suggested to my manager at the time that it was something I should pursue.