The world-renowned golf entertainer shares his favourite golfing memories, selects his favourite courses in the region and beyond, and chooses between a Claret Jug and a Green Jacket
David Edwards’ golf trick shot show has become popular around the globe in the last 20 years, entertaining golfers at events in more than 50 countries, including Ryder Cups and Solheim Cups.
David has won thousands of fans around the world, from Martin Kaymer to Bubba Watson and many, many more – and he once had the terrifying task of hitting a golf ball from a tee peg being held in Rory McIlroy’s mouth by Louis Oosthuizen.
The son of a Royal Signalman, David picked up the game on practice grounds from Catterick Garrison to the Fanling Club in Hong Kong. A PGA professional, he continues to wow crowds all around the globe with a busy schedule of shows at tournaments, corporate events, golf days and club events, and we got the chance to share a round with him to learn more…
1 You travel all over the world with your show, where have you been performing recently?
It’s been a busy start to the year. So far in 2019, I’ve performed in Mauritius, Morocco, Denmark and Jordan, and I’ve just returned from Grand Cayman. There’s more travel planned too!
2 How did you get into golf?
I started playing golf at Catterick Golf Club while my father was stationed there in the army. We moved to Hong Kong shortly after I started out and I continued to play as I grew up before turning professional.
3 Which is your favourite course in the region?
Up in the North East, Seaton Carew Golf Club has always been a favourite of mine. My overall pick in the region would have to be Ganton Golf Club – venue of many great championships over the years.
4 What about further afield?
It’s a tough one but I’d have to pick The Concession Golf Club in Sarasota, Florida, which was designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin following the memorable conceded putt in the Ryder Cup in 1969.
5 Do you have a favourite performance from the 20-plus years of doing your show?
Having performed my show at events all over the world, it’s hard to pick out just one. That said, the Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor in 2010 was an amazing experience.
6 Which is your favourite golfing memory?
Getting to play in the 2010 Open Championship at Royal St George’s Golf Club while I was the club professional at Catterick Golf Club was very special.
7 What about embarrassing moments?
While I was the professional at Scarborough South Cliff between 1986-1993, I was informed by a member of staff that Rosy – “a member” – had died. I arranged for the club flag to be lowered and a notice to be displayed in the clubhouse. I returned to the pro shop and was looking out onto the first tee, and Rosy appeared to my left with his wife! He asked if I knew who had died and I replied “you”. Luckily he took it well and boomed his drive down the first before shouting back, “Tell them I’m alive and kicking, and I’m still ready to take a tenner”.
8 Do you have any superstitions?
I like to use white tees in my shows.
9 What are your strengths on the course?
My driving is probably my strongest part of my game.
10 And where do you focus your practice time?
In the early days of doing the show, I would practise on the range at Scarborough South Cliff for hours. Nowadays I try to play golf as often as I can to keep the rhythm going.
11 Which is your favourite club in your bag?
PING are my club sponsors and I really like the G410 driver – they are amazing in anything from 2-8ft-long drivers.
12 Who is your best golfing friend?
Eddie Bullock, whom I have known for many years.
13 Which event is your favourite to play in?
These days, the Super 60s tournament, which is held annually. It’s a great chance to meet up with old colleagues.
14 Who is your favourite tour player?
Jack Nicklaus is my favourite all-time player. From the modern era, it’s Tiger Woods.
15 What’s the best part of your job?
Getting to travel. As a PGA professional, I’m very proud to travel the world bringing laughter and growing the game.
16 Who do you admire?
The Voice of Golf, Peter Alliss, for his humour and knowledge of the game.
17 Which three people would join you in your dream fourball?
Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson.
18 If I could offer you a Green Jacket or a Claret Jug, which would you choose?
The Open as I would love to have a Claret Jug on the shelf.
