In this episode of Linked by Golf, I sit down with Mark Loftus for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about a life deeply shaped by the game of golf.

From growing up in Scotland and competing at the highest levels of amateur golf, to the fine margins that separate potential, opportunity, and outcome, Mark shares his story with honesty, humour, and perspective. We talk about the realities of elite golf, the people you meet along the way, and how the game continues to influence who you become long after competitive ambitions change.

This is a conversation about golf — but more than that, it’s about journeys, timing, friendships, and what the game leaves you with.

Whether you’re a lifelong golfer or simply interested in stories of sport and life, this one will resonate.

Growing up around Scottish golf and early influences

Competing at elite amateur level and what it really demands

The fine margins and “sliding doors” moments in a golfing life

Playing alongside (and against) future tour professionals

The transition away from elite competition

What golf teaches you beyond the scorecard

What Mark is focused on now, and how the game still connects him to people

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In this episode of Linked by Golf, Ross McGuire sits down with Martin Gilbert to explore how his vision, leadership, and support have transformed Scottish golf. From elevating the Scottish Open and Ladies Scottish Open to nurturing amateur golfers into elite professionals, Martin shares the strategies, decisions, and initiatives that created a lasting legacy. Discover the impact he’s had on the game and why his work continues to shape future champions. Supporting Scottish Golf at Every Level

Martin reflects on the projects that defined his impact on the game, including:

The rise of the Scottish Open as one of the strongest events on the European Tour

The growth of the Ladies Scottish Open into a global showcase for women’s golf

Long-term investment in amateur golfers who progressed into elite professional careers

This episode highlights how sustainable success in sport starts with grassroots development and long-term vision.

Martin shares a key insight into elite performance:

“Professionals practise what they’re good at – but it’s their weaknesses they should be working on. Only the data tells you that.”

Key themes:

Why data-driven training matters

The psychology of decision-making under pressure

How amateurs and professionals can both improve faster by focusing on weaknesses

From pressure on the tee box to high-stakes tournament moments, Martin explains how the mind plays a defining role in performance.

This episode explores:

Strategic decision-making

Emotional control under pressure

Why planning and discipline separate elite players from good players

Martin shares his experiences playing:

Augusta National

Pine Valley

St Andrews (his ultimate favourite)

And the courses still on his bucket list:

Pebble Beach

Cypress Point

A powerful story from playing alongside Paul Lawrie in a final round, showing the intensity of pressure at the highest level of competition and the emotional reality of elite golf.

Long-term success in golf comes from investing in people, not just events

Data-driven improvement accelerates performance at every level

Mental resilience is as important as technical skill

Legacy in sport is built through consistent, values-driven leadership

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In this episode of Linked by Golf, host Ross McGuire sits down with founder, Kevin Holland and marketing leader, Tim Ferris of Druids Golf, to unpack one of the most compelling growth stories in modern golf apparel.

From knocking on pro shop doors in Ireland with caps and towels, to becoming a global direct-to-consumer golf brand shipping to over 30 countries, Druids Golf has rewritten the rulebook on how golf clothing can be designed, priced, and sold.

This is a candid conversation about entrepreneurship, disruption in golf, e-commerce growth, and building a brand for everyday golfers.

How Druids Golf started in Kilkenny with no funding or investors

Why COVID became the turning point that accelerated Druids’ online growth

The real story behind the Ambassador Pack (6 for £99)

How Druids uses premium fabrics without premium price tags

Why Druids refuses to pay millions for tour player endorsements

How accessibility, affordability, and inclusivity are reshaping golf

The importance of community, relatable ambassadors, and everyday golfers

Growing from a small Irish startup to 170+ staff worldwide

Why kids’ and junior golf clothing is a core part of Druids’ mission

What it really takes to scale a global golf brand without losing culture

Linked by Golf Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024

Druids Golf Website: https://druids.com Instagram: @Druids

Founded in Ireland over a decade ago, Druids Golf is a modern golf apparel brand built on a simple belief: great golf clothing shouldn’t be overpriced or exclusive.

By cutting out the middleman and selling directly to golfers online, Druids delivers premium-quality golf wear at accessible prices—while building a global community of golfers who proudly represent the brand.

If you enjoyed this conversation:

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More conversations coming soon that connect people, stories, and the great game of golf.

Until next time — thanks for listening.

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.

Enjoying Linked By Golf?Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss future episodes.

Follow the journey on Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024

Thanks for listening — and for being part of the Linked By Golf story.

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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