Join us in this lively opening episode as host Dan Davies talks to comedian, actor, author and screenwriter Simon Farnaby (Paddington, Wonka, Horrible Histories, Ghosts, The Detectorists) about his remarkable journey through golf. From childhood beginnings to memorable experiences on some of the world's most famous courses, Simon shares hilarious stories of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory, dreaming of greatness, and the infamous Maurice Flitcroft, aka The Phantom of the Open. He also talks about meeting and playing a few holes with Tiger Woods, as well as the game’s emotional highs and lows, and the special bond that golf fosters between fathers and sons. In this episode: Simon's memorable trip to Turnberry and the “gateway drug” moment of falling in love with golf Bad temper on the golf course and trying too hard to impress your Dad The significance of club competitions, handicaps, and the joy of personal progress The importance of his Dad in his golfing journey The legendary Maurice Flitcroft, aka The Phantom of the Open: his story, attempts to play in The Open, the book and film A memorable encounter with Tiger Woods — from a rare photo opportunity to the chance to play a few holes The importance of playing for enjoyment, the impact of family, and the lifelong bonds golf fosters Insights into Simon’s recent golf activities alongside a hectic career in film and television Links Sounder Golf Phantom of the Open - Book Phantom of the Open - Movie Maurice Flitcroft's autobiography (unpublished manuscript) Scott Murray - The Guardian Golf in the Kingdom by Michael Murphy RNGC - Britain’s toughest backyard golf course Connect with Simon Farnaby: Twitter Instagram Time stamps 00:00 Introduction to Simon Farnaby, this week's guest 01:58 The visor debate in golf 03:35 Wonka 2 and Timothy Chalamet 04:15 Turnberry and his start in golf 08:00 Junior golf and national prizes 10:32 Disaster in the Leech Cup at Darlington GC 13:36 Bad temper on the golf course 21:59 Realising you're obsessed with golf 24:39 Simon's relationship with his Dad 31:28 Cherished memories and golf trips 33:58 Taking his Dad to the Masters at Augusta National 36:55 The role of golf in his relationship with his Dad 39:30 Maurice Flitcroft: The Phantom of the Open 48:45 Mark Rylance learning golf 50:03 Hugh Grant and the best golfing actors 51:14 Simon's happiest times on the golf course 54:21 Meeting Tiger Woods and playing a few holes A candid, humorous, and heartfelt chat about golf, family, and chasing dreams against the backdrop of this ridiculous, confounding game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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