Short and sharp tribute to a great man

Phillip Leishman (Stuff)

Iconic New Zealand broadcaster, Phillip Leishman, has died aged 61. I was too young - and in some instances not even born - to remember the influence he had on broadcasting in New Zealand pre-1990s.

Over the last several years, his magazine-style golf show - which screened weekly throughout most of the year - provided the fix I needed to satisfy my continuous craving for golf (news).

“I have been lucky to live an amazing life and The Golf Show has taken me to some incredible places around the world,” - Leishman (New Zealand Golf)

I would say that it was the Open Championship of golf television in New Zealand. There was nothing better and it was always a treat to watch.

Phillip brought golf courses from all over the world on to our television sets. His commentary superbly accompanied the breathtaking camera shots.

Phillip provided a round-up of the weekly golf tournaments on the PGA and European Tour's, and interviewed some of the world's most famous golfers.

Still, Phillip always made sure that he added a local element to the show, with previews of New Zealand golf courses and interviews with household New Zealand names such as Michael Campbell and Lydia Ko.

His iconic voice provided viewers with a sense of familiarity and comfort and without doubt was synonymous with golf on New Zealand television.

His legacy in establishing The Golf Show will surely live on forever and will hopefully continue into a future without him. Even though it will probably never be the same again.

Rest In Peace Phillip Leishman. I will definitely miss you.