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Raise Your Game: What inspired you to take up the game of golf?

Bob Charles: I started playing when I was 12-years-old after suffering a football injury which tore all the muscles in my groin. Golf became my number one sport and that love for the game has carried me through.

RYG: When did you decide that golf was to become your passion and your career?

BC: Having a natural instinct for ball games and good hand-eye coordination, I enjoyed success from an early age. I was just out there and I loved hitting a ball!

RYG: Did nerves ever affect you in those crucial moments in big tournaments?

BC: No because that was what you were preparing yourself for. I only had a handful of competitors to beat in those days which included players such as Arnold Palmer, Bobby Nichols, Gary Player and Peter Thompson. All I had to do was beat five players and I was there!

RYG: What has golf given you?

BC: Golf is a challenge. I love the environment and the mental challenge to put a score on a card. It teaches you discipline and you learn respect. Those are the two big things which are important to me.

RYG: How much dedication does it take to reach the top of your game?

BC: The rewards are there if you work hard. The essence of long ball hitting is flexibility and strength and the young players realise that they've got to work at it to get to the top and stay there.

RYG: What advice would you give to any young people looking to follow in your footsteps?

BC: You have to love the game and you've got to have the desire to play. You've got to have a competitive instinct and all the other things will come with experience. I hope to be playing as long as possible. As long as I can swing a club I'll continue to hit the golf ball!