Former Rebels Biker Gang Member to Play at the Open Championship

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Rebels Bike Gang
Credit Hans_Chr via Bigstockphoto

We have already seen our fair share of surprising headlines from across the globe in 2025, but how about this one from the world of golf? In what is a stark example of someone turning their life around, Ryan Peake, a former motorcycle gang member, recently booked his spot at July’s Open Championship after winning the New Zealand Open.

This unique tale has attracted much media attention and no doubt Peake’s efforts at the Open will be closely monitored. As well as looking at his story, we will also assess what chances he has of making an impact in golf’s oldest tournament.

Troubled Past


Although Ryan Peake was a talented amateur golfer, in his younger years he ended up losing his way. The Australian put on a considerable amount of weight and then just disappeared from the golfing scene despite his promise. Filling the void, Peake joined the Rebels bike gang and his involvement with the group saw him assault a man who had allegedly threatened them. Found guilty of the offence, the then-21-year-old was sentenced to five years in prison in 2014.

When golf coach, Ritchie Smith, eventually found out what had happened, after Peake had served half his sentence, he decided to reach out. Smith was aware of the troubled youngster because he teamed up with major winner Cam Smith to win a Trans-Tasman trophy and featured in the Australian Open aged just 17.

The pair discussed what had happened and Smith admired Peake’s openness and honesty. Following this, Smith asked Peake if playing golf competitively once he was released from custody was something he was interested in. Smith knew the talent was there and believed that with a lot of work, he could make a fine golfer out of the imprisoned amateur despite being away from the clubs for so long. Peake was very keen and he even received the approval of the Rebels who encouraged him to follow his passion.

The Redemption Arc Begins


It would be wrong to think that Peake simply walked out of prison and immediately secured victory in the New Zealand Open. His triumph across the Tasman Sea only came following years of dedicated work overseen by Smith who did not sugarcoat what was required. The journey began while in prison as it was during this time Smith underwent surgery on his shoulder and the subsequent rehabilitation.

After receiving a training plan written by Western Australian golf physiotherapist Martin McInnes, a fit-again Peake was given day release once he moved prisons. This enabled him to return to the driving range and even participate in some tournaments. On one occasion, Peake won a competition in Perth but celebrations were cut short as he had to return to prison in time for bed!

After just a month of being back with the clubs, Peake was back shooting par. Clearly heading in the right direction, he was able to juggle the sport while working in the mines. By 2022, he had made his way to pro golf and was playing in tournaments on an almost weekly basis. Although he missed the cut for the Australian PGA and Australian Open, he crucially, booked a place in the New Zealand Open.

New Zealand Triumph


Despite qualifying for New Zealand’s top golf tournament, which has existed since 1907, Peake almost did not make it there. It looked as though he would be unable to get a visa due to his criminal record but with a day to spare, he received a special direction order that enabled him to travel.

His late arrival meant the Australian only had one day of preparation before the tournament began but this was all he needed. He shot a 23-under par including a composed final day 66. He cut a composed figure as he sunk an eight-foot put on the very last hole, which saw him avoid a four-way play-off with Jack Thompson, Ian Snyman and Kazuki Higi, all tied on 22-under. Only one player since 1964 has scored better than -23 in the Open, so it was a highly competitive year. Speaking after the win, an ecstatic Peake said,

I’ve just changed my life. This is what I do… I want to be here and just play golf. The story is what it is, but I’m just out here playing golf. I always knew I could do it. It was just a matter of time when I was going to do it.

Thanks to this win, Peake earned himself just shy of £100,000 in prize money, as well as a spot at the Open Championship in Northern Ireland, which will take place in July.

Peake’s Open Chances

If Peake can gain entry to Northern Ireland for the Open, which is in question due to his criminal record, he faces a test like none other he has faced before. What we can expect to see at Royal Portrush, according to Smith, is a powerful golfer with great hands and “innate skills that can’t be taught”. Although Smith is a big fan of Peake’s talents, it would be a real surprise to see him make any sort of impression on his debut at such an elite level.

At the time of writing, bookmakers were not even providing odds for the 31-year-old but when/if he does appear, expect him to be right down the pecking order. Peake will be facing over 150 other golfers including a whole host of incredibly familiar names who have vast experience playing on such a challenging course.

Although the general public may warm to Peake and the tale of a man who has turned his life around, he would be performing well above expectations to even make the cut. Regardless of he how performs though, rest assured that if Peake is permitted to attend, he will love every minute of the experience.