Linked By Golf

Guest: Craig Watson

In this episode of Linked By Golf, Ross chats with Craig Watson — one of Scotland’s most accomplished amateur golfers — about a career that spans winning The Amateur Championship, playing in The Masters and The Open, and representing and captaining Great Britain & Ireland in the Walker Cup.

Craig reflects on his victory at The Amateur Championship in 1997, a win that opened doors to Augusta National and Royal Birkdale. He shares what it was like walking the fairways at The Masters Tournament and competing in The Open Championship — experiences few amateurs ever get to live.

The conversation also dives deep into his long association with the Walker Cup — first as a player representing Great Britain & Ireland, and later as captain. Craig explains the unique pressure and pride that comes with amateur team golf, the responsibility of leadership, and what it takes to prepare players for elite international competition.

From growing up in Scottish golf to competing on the biggest stages in the world, Craig offers insight into longevity in the amateur game, balancing elite sport with life beyond competition, and what the modern amateur landscape looks like compared to his era.

Topics covered in this episode:• Winning The Amateur Championship in 1997• Earning a place at The Masters and The Open• The Augusta National experience as an amateur• Competing at Royal Birkdale• Representing Great Britain & Ireland in the Walker Cup• Captaining the Walker Cup side• The evolution of elite amateur golf• The pride of Scottish golf tradition• Leadership, preparation, and team culture• Life beyond tournament golf

Follow the podcast:@linkedbygolf2024

Guest: Scott Knowles

In this episode of Linked By Golf, Ross chats with Scott Knowles — Junior Ryder Cup Vice Captain and Manager of the Stephen Gallacher Foundation — about elite junior golf, team culture, and building pathways into the game.

Scott shares what it’s really like behind the scenes at the Junior Ryder Cup, from seeing world-class junior talent up close to helping select and support Team Europe players competing at Bethpage and Marco Simone. He explains the challenge of building a team, not just selecting the best individuals, and the unforgettable experiences young golfers get when they step into the Ryder Cup environment.

The conversation also explores Scott’s own playing journey — from never winning as a junior to becoming Scottish Golfer of the Year — and the lessons learned from competing alongside some of Scotland’s strongest amateur golfers of the era.

A major focus of the episode is the work of the Stephen Gallacher Foundation, where Scott helps introduce young players to golf through creative competition formats, coaching programmes, and events designed to build confidence, skills, and long-term love for the game. The foundation’s philosophy is simple: grow participation first, and performance will follow.

Topics covered in this episode:• Inside the Junior Ryder Cup experience• Selecting Team Europe players and building team chemistry• The standard of elite junior golf today• Scott’s amateur career and Scottish team experiences• Balancing golf, work, and family life• The cost of junior golf development• The Stephen Gallacher Foundation pathway model• Flag events and junior competition formats• Long-term player development vs early performance• Creating opportunities for young golfers

Stephen Gallacher Foundationhttps://stephengallacherfoundation.com

Follow the podcast:@linkedbygolf2024

Guest: Coleman RollinsInstagram: @colemangolfs

In this episode of Linked By Golf, Ross chats with Coleman Rollins, a software engineer and golfer documenting his journey building a DIY open-source golf launch monitor from scratch.

Coleman shares how curiosity about expensive commercial launch monitors turned into a hands-on engineering project combining radar technology, Raspberry Pi computing, and open-source software — all documented publicly on Instagram so others can learn alongside him.

The conversation covers everything from caddying in Minnesota to testing radar data in a garage in Seattle, plus what it takes to turn raw motion data into meaningful golf metrics like clubhead speed, ball speed, launch angle, and spin.

At its core, the project is about making golf technology more accessible and showing that innovation in golf doesn’t always have to come from big companies.

Coleman’s tagline says it best:“I built a launch monitor at home so you can too.”

Growing up in Minnesota golf culture

Moving from curiosity to building a launch monitor

Radar vs camera launch monitor technology

Using a Raspberry Pi as the “brain” of the system

Trial-and-error testing at the driving range

Building a custom enclosure for the device

Making the project open source

The role of community learning in golf technology

What comes next: simulator integration and data analysis tools

Puetz Golf

Gerry Gubash — Radar engineering guidance

Peter Michels — Enclosure design and fabrication

OpenFlight GitHub Repository

Open-source project:https://github.com/jewbetcha/openflight

Follow Coleman’s build journey:Instagram — @colemangolfs

Follow the podcast:@linkedbygolf2024

In this episodePeople and projects supporting Coleman’s journeyLinks

In this episode of Linked By Golf, Ross sits down with renowned golf coach Kendal McWade to explore a radically different way of thinking about golf coaching, skill development, and performance.

From playing on Scotland’s competitive circuits and qualifying for a European Tour event, to working with Ryder Cup players and tour professionals, Kendal shares the story behind his journey into Instinctive Golf and why he believes traditional coaching methods often miss the point.

This conversation dives deep into motor learning, exploration, problem-solving, and why golfers should focus less on positions and more on developing skills through experience.

If you’ve ever felt stuck working on your swing mechanics — this episode will change how you think about improvement.

Kendal’s journey into golf coaching and the moment that changed everything

Discovering Extraordinary Golf and the influence of Fred Shoemaker

Playing professionally in Scotland and qualifying for the Glasgow Classic

Working with tour professionals including Paul McGinley

Why many great players learned without formal coaching early on

The difference between performance coaching and skill acquisition

Why exploration and “motor babbling” are essential to learning golf

The connection between trick shots and real skill development

How golfers can build confidence by learning to solve problems with the club

Why there is no single “correct” golf swing

Golf improvement isn’t about copying positions or chasing a perfect swing — it’s about learning to use the club to solve problems and developing your own movement patterns through exploration and experience.

If you enjoyed this episode of Linked By Golf, make sure you follow the podcast so you never miss a conversation with the people who make golf such a powerful connector.

Follow along on Instagram:@linkedbygolf2024

Share this episode with a golfer who loves learning more about the game.

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

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | YouTube

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and share — it really helps the podcast grow

Follow on Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024

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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@linkedbygolf2024

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