Sport

A round and about

Stephen Hunt Reading and Republic of Ireland soccer player and 11-handicap golfer

Tue Apr 15 2008 - 01:00

Stephen HuntReading and Republic of Ireland soccer player and 11-handicap golfer

Earliest golfing memory?
It would have to be the 1997 Ryder Cup at Valderrama. I was about 17 when I watched it and it was pretty much the reason why I started to play golf, having come late to the sport.

First victory?
It was a club matchplay event in Carrick-on-Suir and playing off a handicap of 14, I managed to edge past Glen Burke 4 and 3.

First time to break 90?
It was probably that first summer (circa 1997) that I played, because I did so every day.

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Last bit of equipment you bought?
TaylorMade kindly sponsor me, so the last club I bought would probably have been a Callaway driver.

Last time you took a cart. Where and Why.
Donnington Grove GC. If memory serves me, I think we were due to play a match a few days later and I was trying to save the legs.

Last time you muttered an obscenity on the course and why?
I am prone to struggle off the tee, so it would probably be after a drive. It's definitely my most inconsistent shot and it annoys me no end.

Which major would you like to attend and why?
US Masters. It is the whole aura of the place; the history, the scenery, the green jacket. It would explain why I stayed up until 12.40am on Sunday night.

Ideal fourball. Who and Where?
It would have to be myself and Tiger Woods against Kevin Doyle and Sergio Garcia at either Augusta or Sawgrass.

One last round on earth, where would it be?
Mount Juliet. It's close enough to home and I love the place.

Dress sense. Davis Love or Ian Poulter?
I wouldn't be fond of Ian Poulter as a golfer, but I have admired some of what he wears on the course.

Is a Titleist ProV1 worth the expense?
Yes, pure and simple.

Best golf club food. Where?
Tramore. Top quality.

140 yards out from the green. Flat calm. What's in your hand?
I'm not going to lie. It's an eight-iron.

Favourite club in times of trouble?
It has to be my trusty seven-iron because I can play a few different types of shots.

Parkland or Links?
Parkland.

Must see golfing destination?
Florida. Play in the mornings and head for the theme parks after.

Hidden gem?
Bearwood Lakes near my home in England. Rarely busy, which suits me.

One Mulligan in life.
I might save that one and see how our (Reading) season pans out: maybe save it for the last day of the season.