Ryan Peake, an Australian golfer, completed a remarkable redemption story on Sunday when he won the New Zealand Open. At the age of 21, Peake was part of an outlawed motorcycle gang, the Rebels, and was sentenced to five years in prison for his involvement in a serious assault. Now 31, Peake has turned his life around and worked his way back into competitive golf. Despite starting the final day of the New Zealand Open four shots off the lead, he fired a final round five-under 66 at Millbrook Resort and secured his first professional victory by one stroke.
As the New Zealand Open is part of the Open Qualifying Series, Peake’s win earned him a spot in the Open Championship this summer at Royal Portrush. Peake expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play golf professionally, stating, “I’ve just changed my life. This is what I do. I want to be here and just play golf.” However, his journey to the tournament was nearly derailed when New Zealand immigration officials held up his travel due to his criminal record. Despite the obstacles, Peake arrived at Millbrook in time for the tournament and ultimately emerged victorious.
Peake’s golf career initially showed promise as a junior player in Western Australia before being derailed by his assault conviction. While in prison, coach Ritchie Smith reached out to him and offered to help him revive his golf career upon his release in 2019. Working with Smith, Peake earned his Australasian Tour card for the current season. During the New Zealand Open, he played the final 55 holes without a bogey and sank an eight-foot birdie putt on the 72nd hole to secure the one-shot victory over his competitors Jack Thompson, Kazuki Higa, and Ian Snyman.
Reflecting on his journey, Peake expressed confidence in his abilities, stating, “I always knew I could do it; it was just a matter of time of when I was going to do it.” He credited his coach, Ritchie Smith, for instilling belief in him and setting goals for him to achieve success on the golf course. Despite facing challenges such as missing the cut at the Aussie Open and the Aussie PGA, Peake remained determined and committed to his goals, with the support of his family, team, and coach.
Peake’s story serves as an inspiring example of redemption and determination in the face of adversity. His victory at the New Zealand Open not only secured his place in the Open Championship but also highlighted his resilience and dedication to the sport of golf. As he continues his professional career, Peake remains focused on his passion for golf and the opportunity to showcase his talent on the international stage. With his newfound success, Peake has proven that with hard work and belief in oneself, anything is possible.
