Time for tee - Ronan on competing in the All*Star Cup

Ronan Keating Q & A

Sky One - August 10th 2005

How have you prepared for this tournament? Have you had any tips from professionals or tried a specific fitness programme? I generally keep in pretty good shape so I’ve just tried to get a few rounds in. I’ve played at Celtic Manor a couple of times before so I hope that will do me some good.

Although you're used to performing on camera, what effect do you think being filmed playing golf might have on your game? It’s crazy but I can stand on stage in front of 10,000 people and feel fine but put me on the 1st tee in front of a few cameras and I’m a nervous wreck.

How competitive are you? Are you a good loser? Do you fear failure? I used to get really wound up but with golf especially you’ve got to learn to take the good with the bad.

Do you follow any particular superstitions or have good luck rituals? Not really!

How did you get your passion for golf? My older brothers played so I picked it up from them. Ireland has some great courses so we’re very lucky.

Which charity will you be playing for in this tournament and why did you choose to support that particular cause? The Marie Keating Foundation which is a cancer awareness charity that we set up when my mother died from breast cancer. We have three mobile units that travel throughout Ireland providing information and support on all types of cancer.

Which of the other participating celebrities do you think will be the player to watch in this tournament? I’ve heard that some of the U.S. players are pretty good but I’m sure our European team spirit will see us through.

What has been your most memorable experience on a golf course? I hosted the Gary Player Invitational at the K Club this year which was a great honour. Getting a lesson from the Black Knight was very special.

Golfers aren't known for their fashion sense, have you ever worn any embarrassing or eye catching outfits in your years playing golf? Absolutely! I think there should be extra shots for the best-dressed player.

Do you play and excel in any other sports? I was a pretty good track runner at school.

When did you take up golf? In my early teens.

Which tournaments/Pro-Ams have you played in and what are your best results? I played in the Nelson Mandela Invitational last year with Ian Poulter. We did very well in the drinking competition!

What is the best course you have played on? The Old Head, Kinsale and the K Club

Thanks to Karen!