Some golfers are lucky enough to get it early in their golfing careers, some never experience it at all. It’s something we all strive for, a side quest on the journey of improving your golf game. For Jamie, it was a humbling 50 year wait to reach the pinnacle moment of his golfing career, and it was a moment he’ll never forget. We got out to Aston Hills Golf Club to get his thoughts on the moment, keep reading for more below.
Fifty years of chasing that elusive first hole-in-one. When it finally came, it arrived on a hole Jamie had circled his entire golfing life. This is a story about patience, perseverance, and what happens when the game finally gives back everything you’ve put in.
The Q & A:
Local Party Hole: Jamie, thanks for joining us. A huge momentous occasion for you, a hole-in-one on the 15th. It’s a challenging hole and can play like a bit of a wind tunnel. What were the conditions like on the day?
Jamie: It actually wasn’t too bad. There wasn’t much breeze. I’m not sure if it was helping or hurting, but it made it pretty easy to get to the green. I felt quite confident standing over it.
Local Party Hole: Well, the confidence clearly paid off. When you hit it, did you think it had a chance?
Jamie: Not at all. The guys I was playing with were saying, “That’s going in, that’s going in.” I said, “Nah, it’s not.” I actually turned my back on it for a couple of seconds. Then I saw it drop. The other guys made it really special. They were going crazy.
Local Party Hole: That must have been an incredible moment to celebrate together. And we hear it was your first hole-in-one?
Jamie: It was, yes. It’s been 50 years playing golf, but we finally got one.
Local Party Hole: Fifty years. That makes it even sweeter. Have you come close before?
Jamie: Actually, yes, on the same hole. The first time I played here, I went just behind the hole. I’ve been close twice on 15. I remember thinking, “Maybe I can do this one day.” And it finally happened. It was just crazy.
Local Party Hole: You seem to have a knack for the 15th.
Jamie: Maybe, but I’ve also had nines and tens on it. It definitely comes back to bite you sometimes. It all averages out.
Local Party Hole: We assume your mates were pretty quick to remind you about shouting at the 19th hole?
Jamie: Of course they did. They said, “You better get us something when we get back. Give us a grand each.” I told them I might have to get something for the missus first.
Local Party Hole: Fair enough. So when it sunk in that you’d won the $10,000 prize, what was the first thing you thought about buying?
Jamie: Honestly, nothing straight away. I’ve just bought a whole new set of golf clubs, so I’m pretty sorted there. I’ll probably save it and make it last a while. I’m sure I’ll find something to spend it on eventually.
Local Party Hole: Maybe a golf trip?
Jamie: Yeah, maybe a little golf trip somewhere. Although I probably should get the missus a ring. She’s been asking for a while. I think she’d enjoy that.
Local Party Hole: Speaking of big golf moments, LIV Golf’s coming to town. Has Greg Norman reached out with a wildcard invitation yet?
Jamie: No, unfortunately not. My missus did say, “You’re professional now. You’ve won money.” I said, “Not quite professional.” But it’s a nice little payday. I’m very appreciative, especially to you guys for sponsoring the hole.
Local Party Hole: We love being part of moments like this. Hopefully you can do it again.
Jamie: Hopefully. That would be nice.
Local Party Hole: Finally, how many times have you replayed it for friends and family?
Jamie: I’ve put it on Facebook and watched it a few times. It’s got a fair few likes. You’ve got to savour it. It might be the only one I ever get. I’m just very happy it happened here.
Local Party Hole: Jamie, congratulations again. A fantastic achievement and a well-deserved celebration.
Jamie: Thanks very much. I appreciate it.
If you think you can join Jamie in the prestigious club, see where you can play at a Local Party Hole here.
