Former Australian motorcycle gang member Ryan Peake completed a stunning redemption story on Sunday, winning the New Zealand Open and securing a spot in this year’s British Open. The 31-year-old from Perth, who previously served a five-year jail term for assault, held his nerve to claim a one-shot victory at the Millbrook Resort course near Queenstown. His triumph earned him a berth at the prestigious major in Portrush, Northern Ireland, in July, pending clearance to travel as a convicted criminal.
Peake’s emotional celebration on the 18th green saw him showered with champagne by friends as he reflected on a journey few in professional golf could relate to. Fighting back tears, the heavily tattooed left-hander acknowledged the profound impact the sport has had on his life.
