Junior gets to rub elbows with golf's greats

The promising teenager, who hopes to represent Bermuda in the future, is a big fan of South Africa’s Gary Player who captured nine majors  including three U.S. Masters and three Open Championships.

Last year he had the opportunity to visit Pinehurst where he was “astounded” by the calibre of golf at the junior level.

Campbell, 15, now hopes to make his presence felt on the domestic scene as well as play in more international events this year.

Earlier this week he spoke to Bermuda Sun sports reporter Colin Thompson.

When did you begin playing golf?

When I was seven years old.

What or who inspired you to play golf?

My father took me to the driving range when I was young and I remember him hitting the golf ball a hundred yards or so and I thought it was amazing. 

He then enrolled me in golf lessons with Dwayne Gibson at Belmont Hills and I’ve been playing golf ever since.

What are you ambitions in the sport?

I don’t know really.  I love to compete in tournaments and I know I would like to play golf in college and maybe represent Bermuda someday on an international level.  Beyond that I’m not sure yet.

Which international golfer do you most admire and why?

Gary Player for his incredible mental strength on the course.  Nothing could ever bother him on the course, he was extremely focused when competing.

Who has been the biggest influence on your golf career?

Actually I think it’s more ‘what has been the biggest influence’ than who. My family went to Pinehurst last year and I was astounded by the calibre of junior golf in the U.S.

It has inspired me to practice harder so I am able to compete at that level.

How does it feel to be chosen to play in Grand Slam of Golf Pro Am with some of the world's elite?

If feels incredible. I feel very lucky to be given the opportunity. 

It’s amazing to think that some of the world’s best players will watch me swing a club and that they will actually play a few holes alongside me.

Besides golf, are there any other sports you like?

Baseball.

Who do you predict to win this year's PGA Grand Slam of Golf at Port Royal?

Ernie Els is my favourite to win the PGA Grand Slam. I really like his smooth swing and easy going tempo.

What expectations do you have for the new junior golf season?

I’d like to continue to improve my game and to play in more international tournaments this year. 

How do you rate your game at present?

I’m feeling good about it.  I’m swinging my clubs well and my short game is fairly sharp at the moment.