My TT Story – Ex-Pro American Footballer turns TT Rookie

Name: Ben Torriero
Age: 47
Region entered: Rockliffe Hall
Handicap: 11
Golf Club: Marriott Dalmahoy Golf & Country Club
Caddy: Willie Lockhart
Occupation: IT Consultant and Golf Captain
History: First time

MOTTO: 'NEVER GIVE UP'

I started thrashing golf about about 20 years ago but gave up through frustration and LOFT (Lack Of F****** Talent) then started again about 12 years ago off a handicap of 24.

I used to play American Football in the NFL Europe League but it's the total opposite to golf.

In football you hit things but if you do that in golf the ball goes nowhere. In golf you need to stroke' the ball as opposed to hit it.

I watched this event on TV last year and thought that it looked like a great crack so decided to become part of it.

2012 will be my rookie year on the Tour also I've never played golf in a Trilby so that swung it for me!

I've never played golf in a Trilby so that swung it for me!

My caddy and I have played golf a few times together - he knows me, my temperament and my game. His name's Willie Lockhart and is also a member of Dalmahoy – he plays off 16 but hits the ball a country mile predominantly in any direction!

Things I hope to achieve in the TT:

1) not make a fool of myself; 2) make it to the top 10 of the qualifier and qualify for the Grand Final; and last but not least 3) finishing in the top 3 of the Final!

My motto is 'Never give up' but my favourite golfing quip is

If you don't want someone to see your true personality...don't play golf!

Ben Torriero

John Freeman