From prison to the Open Championship: “The former outlaw biker who competed at Portrush”

Golfer Ryan Peake has a remarkable past. He was a promising amateur golfer in his youth, even representing Australia in junior team competitions alongside notable players like Cameron Smith. However, in his late teens, he quit golf and became involved with the Rebels motorcycle gang, which the Australian government considers a criminal organization.

At the age of 21, in November 2014, Peake was convicted of a serious assault and sentenced to five years in prison. While incarcerated, renowned golf coach Ritchie Smith, who had previously worked with Peake, reached out to him and encouraged him to reconsider playing golf.

After his release from prison in May 2019, Peake began to rebuild his life and golf career. He worked on the greenkeeping staff at Lakelands Country Club and turned professional for the second time in 2022. His dedication led him to earn full playing rights on the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia.

In March 2025, Peake achieved a significant milestone by winning the New Zealand Open, his first professional title, which also earned him a spot in The Open Championship at Royal Portrush. His journey is often described as a story of redemption and triumph, highlighting his resilience and determination to overcome a troubled past and succeed in elite competitive golf.

Peake tees off at Royal Portrush on the opening day of the 2025 The Open playing alongside Phil Mickelson and Daniel Van Tonder.

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