Why we need role models like Paul Lawrie?

The success of Team GB at the London Olympics highlighted values that we admire in sport – their commitment, professionalism and sportsmanlike conduct were lauded ahead of the more commonly seen excesses from selfish individuals more typically promoted by the media.

But we have role models outside the Olympians such as Scottish golfer, Paul Lawrie, who this week won the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles, making his 3rd European Tour victory in the last 18 months. But why should we consider that former Open Champion, Paul is a role model given that the sport he plays is considerably better rewarded than many of our Olympic competitors?

Paul Lawrie wins the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles by 4 shots

At 43, Lawrie is one of the oldest players on the European Tour and despite his Carnoustie win in 1999 and Ryder Cup performance in Brookline later that year, success in terms of tour wins has not always flowed freely, as the media have pointed out. But he has stuck with it and proved that hard work and determination do pay off, securing wins in Spain, Qatar and now Scotland alongside a clutch of top 5 finishes and re-gaining his place in the Ryder Cup 13 years after his first appearance.

Despite being one of a select few to win golf’s most treasured titles, Paul is a modest and grounded individual committed to his family and his local community. Based in his hometown of Aberdeen, he regularly speaks of his talented boys, the support of his wife Marian who accompanies him on both tour and fund-raising events for his foundation which he set up in 2001 to encourage young golfers to play to the best of their ability and have fun, and now supports football, curling, swimming and hockey.

It may not look like the week before Christmas 2009!

Paul Lawrie also has a great work ethic which makes him a pleasure to work with, whether it’s a photo-shoot on the shores of Aberdeen in a polo shirt at Christmas, or meeting sponsors and playing golf with guests. Regardless of his schedule, or current playing form he’s always amiable and got a story to hand to engage with people on the day which goes far beyond professional obligation.

Paul Lawrie wins the Andalucia marks his
return to winning form in March 2011,
winning the Andalucia Open

Paul demonstrates to us is what hard work and persistence can achieve, as well as displaying great personal attributes. He richly deserves his recent return to form and the success that has brought him. We wish him all the best in the Ryder Cup and hope that he can retain his place for the 2014 event taking place at Gleneagles in Scotland, which would surely be a great prize for him.

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