Meet the personalities behind the scorecards. In this NZ Golf Magazine series, we’re getting to know golf enthusiasts from across New Zealand — their favourite courses, memorable moments and what keeps them coming back.
You don’t need a low handicap — just a love of the game!
Meet Callum White, a Queenstown golfer with 20 years in the game and a +1 handicap. Calling Millbrook Resort home, Callum joins our Clubhouse Characters series to share his golfing story and what keeps him coming back. Titleist is his favourite golf brand, while “Pyro” by Kings of Leon tops his playlist. Follow his golfing journey at @Callum_white_golf.
How Did Golf Get You Hooked?
At age 3, my Grandad was a scratch golfer and got me my first set of clubs. I played socially whilst balancing rugby and school sports; the grind of having a bad round and having to get back up and go again is what really hooked me.
What Keeps You Coming Back?
Competition is a big one, no matter if someone’s new to golf, your family or a stroke play event you can play competition, also being outdoors with the views and nature there’s just nothing quite like it.
Give Us The Local Knowledge
Hole 13, Coronet Course: Millbrook Resort.
Bomb driver, but play to the safe side of the green for an easier chip.
Where Else In New Zealand Do You Love Playing?
St Clair Golf Club — the views of the beach and the scenery down there is unmatched, as well as the wild weather you can get.
What’s Your Most Memorable Golfing Moment?
Chipping in on the final hole of South Island U19 to place third, after making a triple bogey on 14.
What’s The Best Part Of Your Golf Game — And What Needs Work?
Scrambling, I’m not the straightest hitter everyone knows I’m good for a 100 metre block 5 fairways wide but my ability to scramble from anywhere and make scores no matter how I am hitting it.
I do really struggle under pressure with putting; you see a 3ft putt under pressure, and it looks 10ft, so with the help of a few friends we are slowly working on that.
Who’s Joining Your Dream Fourball?
Ryan Fox
Sir Bob Charles (lefty)
My Grandad
What Would You Tell Someone Thinking About Giving Golf A Go?
Get out there and do it, get the fundamentals down of grip, aim, posture then just play like you are throwing the ball and you will be surprised how easy it becomes.
My biggest advice is that golf is overcomplicated; most people play better when they use a natural motion instead of a forceful one. It’s the best sport in the world as it’s inclusive for everyone and you can play against parents, grandparents, brothers, and sisters.
