Cambo gives tips to Hillier

Michael Campbell won't likely have a round of golf this week because of that biting Wellington wind.

The 47-year-old was back in his hometown of Porirua for a flying visit this week and found time for a quick chat and coaching session with Eisenhower Trophy players Ryan Chisnall and Luke Toomey in Upper Hutt, and with Daniel Hillier at Titahi Golf Club.

"Jack Nicklaus told me after I won the US Open [in 2005] that you have a responsibility to give back, teach others some of what you've learnt," Campbell said.

I've never forgotten that and although I was back here for another reason, talking to those young guys was important."
Based in Marabella, Spain, these days, the other reason he was back was to celebrate his father Tom's 69th birthday.
A friend's father recently died, so Campbell decided flying home was worth every penny.

"He didn't know I was coming. I was in another room and my sister said, 'I've brought you a present', and out I came. I think I nearly gave him a heart attack."

Campbell hasn't been back to New Zealand for 18 months. He said it was always fantastic to come home - but he did not miss the weather.
In southern Spain, where he has a flourishing academy, the temperature never drops below 20 degrees Celsius.
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"I was thinking about a round [of golf] this week, but I can't face it, mate, it's just too cold. I'm older and spoilt now.

"But the memories of growing up here in the Bay flood back, like playing this [Titahi] course. It was a special place for a kid."

In three years time Campbell is eligible for the United States Seniors Tour and can't wait to get stuck in.

Good friends Retief Goosen and Mike Weir will be also taking up the opportunity and he said the camaraderie and competitive nature of tournament golf held some appeal.

The attraction of three rounds per tournament - not four - and using golf carts was a bonus, he said.

"After I quit three years ago, I didn't play for 18 months and I didn't miss it.

"I've worked hard at the academies and I do television work for Sky and Fox, so I'm busy. But it won't be hard to get going again.

"I'm competitive by nature, even chess with my son or cards with the family gets heated."

Campbell is looking forward to the Ryder Cup kicking off on September 27, pitting the best European golfers against the top United States players.

He recalled a phone call from European captain Sam Torrance in about 2002.

"Sam calls me and says, 'Campbell, you don't have any Scottish in you, do you?' I might have been in line for a Ryder Cup spot if I did, but I didn't want to disown my Kiwi passport."

Courtesy Kapi Mana News