From prison to pro golf: Ryan Peake’s incredible journey just hit a new high with his win at the New Zealand Open on Sunday. The victory didn’t just earn him $125,000 – it punched his ticket to the prestigious Open Championship at Royal Portrush this summer.
It’s a remarkable turnaround for the 31-year-old Australian, who spent five years behind bars for assault during his time with the outlawed biker gang “The Rebels.”
Getting to this tournament wasn’t even a sure thing. Immigration officials held up Peake’s entry into New Zealand until Tuesday because of his criminal record. He’ll face the same hurdle when applying to enter the UK for The Open in July.
“I’ve just changed my life,” Peake said after sinking the winning putt. “The story is what it is, but I’m just out here playing golf.”
As a junior, he played alongside current golf star Cameron Smith before their paths dramatically diverged. But while Peake was in prison, coach Ritchie Smith reached out with an offer to restart his golf career.
He took that chance. And on Sunday, it paid off big time.
Starting the final round four shots behind leader Guntaek Koh, Peake put together a masterful 66 to finish at 23-under for the tournament.
The drama peaked on the final hole. After taking the lead with a birdie on 17, Peake’s tee shot went wayward on 18. But he kept his cool, chipped on, and sank a nerve-wracking 10-foot par putt to win by one stroke.
That clutch finish made him the first left-handed player to win the New Zealand Open since Sir Bob Charles in 1973.
“I always knew I could do it,” Peake said. “It’s one hell of a story. One hell of a moment.”
The victory also earned him membership on the Asian Tour, opening up even more opportunities for the former prisoner turned pro golfer.
From a jail cell to the winner’s circle – and now on to his first Major championship. Ryan Peake’s comeback story just keeps getting better.
