Former Gang Member Wins New Zealand Open

Ryan Peake, a former Australian motorcycle gang member, won the 104th New Zealand Open by one stroke at the golf tournament's conclusion Sunday. This victory earns him a spot in the British Open. Peake secured his win with an 8-foot par putt on the 72nd hole. He avoided a four-way playoff with Jack Thompson, Ian Snyman, and Kazuki Higi. Peake's final round score was 66, finishing 23 under par. He earned approximately $112,000 in winnings.

Peake, 31, was once a promising junior golfer and a teammate of Cameron Smith. But at 21, he was convicted of assault and sentenced to five years in jail. After jail, he returned to golf with support from coach Richie Smith and his family. This season, he obtained his Australasian tour card, marking this as his first professional win. His entry to New Zealand was delayed due to his criminal record.

Peake trailed Guntaek Koh by four strokes going into the final round. Eventually, he took the lead on the 67th hole and went 55 holes without a bogey. Reflecting on his success, Peake said: "I always knew I could do it but it was just a matter of when I was going to do it." (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)