Sam Parsons says if you put the work in, you get the results. Photo / Paul Estcourt
Sam Parsons, 27, Auckland
How did you get into golf?
Through the encouragement of my friends and brother. I decided I wanted to play an individual sport. In golf if you put the work in, you get the results. There is no one to let you
down. In team sports, no one turns up for practice, and even if you are working hard you can still get smashed on the field because others are unfit.
What's a typical day out?
I practise every day after work, just on the driving range or working out in the gym. On my days off, I will usually play 18 holes.
What's your favourite part?
I meet people from all over New Zealand. And I have some friends who are pretty big fish now, playing on the pro circuit.
I also love coaching now, and seeing young kids coming through. Golf got me off the streets, out of a bad neighbourhood. The sport teaches you respect - how to dress and act respectfully. I've seen kids from a rough background get into golf and their character changes completely.
What's the worst part?
Definitely the stress of playing badly in a tournament. It requires a lot of determination and time if you want to be good.
What gear and training do you need to get started?
I started out with one club and a putter which I borrowed from a friend.
I used to just use the two clubs, teeing off on the same quiet hole time after time.
I'd recommend a personal tutorial.
At Chamberlain Park you can get a five-hour package which covers five important areas of your game - driving, putting, short game, irons and the rules.
Can you give us an inside tip?
Make sure you get all the basics right - grip, posture, and stance - before you try anything fancy.
