Ryan Peake after his final round at Millbrook today. Photo: www.photosport.nz / Michael Thomas
It was a redemption story for the movies as the burly West Australian former bikie gang member Ryan Peake won his maiden title at the Milbrook Resort.
Peake, 31, carded a final round of five-under-66 to finish at 23-under, a shot clear of Australian Jack Thompson, South African Ian Snyman and Kazuki Higa from Japan.
The former Rebels bikie gang member, who once spent time in jail for assault, overcame visa issues and a hugely disrupted preparation to lift the silverware.
Photo: Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz
Australia's Ryan Peake wins the 104th NZ Open golf tournament at Millbrook Resort, in Arrowtown.
In becoming the 104th New Zealand Open champion, and with the rain falling at Milbrook, he was overcome with raw emotion.
Proud at turning his life around, Peake said he would cherish the title.
Peake was found guilty of serious assault as a 21-year-old and sentenced to five years in prison.
"If I had suggested this win at the start of the week, you would have laughed at me," he said.
"I'm lost for words."
He's not sure how he will celebrate but family and friends are top of the list.
"I haven't had a drink this year, to be honest I'll probably get ready for next week," he said.
"Tonight I'll be doing a lot of video calls with my friends and family."
Peake won a $360,000 payday and is guaranteed a start at the 2025 British Open at Royal Portrush.
