In addition to having a laugh with friends, IOOF managing director Christopher Kelaher says golf provides the quintessential setting for cementing business relationships. He answers our Time Out Q&A.;

How did you start playing golf?

As a teenager, I started playing on a course conveniently located next to my parents' beach house. After a long lay-off, I started playing seriously again about 15 years ago, first with a second-hand set of clubs, and then finally lashing out on a fitted set.

Golf course membership

Sorrento Golf Club and National Golf Club (at Cape Schanck in Victoria), which has four courses and is one of the best golf venues in the country.

Handicap

17.5. I started 2016 much lower but my coach moved on and business has been too busy to get back to a regular practice and playing routine. To be consistent, I need both.

Golf rule most often broken

Slow playing; I am always conscious of sticking to a four-hour average round, occasionally getting frustrated, giving way to accidentally hitting up on some Korean players in Queensland a few years ago.

What clubs do you use?

Mizuno JPX irons. I am now convinced, however, that the operator is more important than the tools. The first day I tried my new six iron, the ball went like a tracer bullet. That was the first and last time.

Favourite course and favourite hole

Second hole at Sorrento, where I scored a hole in one. Fortunately, one of my closest golfing buddies saw it and graciously entered my name in the "hole in one book" at the club. I think he was happy for me.

Most inspiring golfer

Jason Day, because of his attacking, fearless style. I am a great believer that the biggest distance in golf is between your ears. He seems to be oblivious to this and is also a great ambassador for the game.

If you could play anywhere, where would it be?

Pebble Beach in California is my favourite course. I have had the privilege of playing there on several occasions and then watching on television when the professionals play. I know all the golf holes almost by heart.

Memorable moments and embarrassing outbursts

My most memorable moment was playing golf with Scottish professional golfer Colin Montgomerie at the Hong Kong Pro Am. He is a great golfer and it was a real thrill mixing it with the professionals. My most embarrassing time was playing at Burnley Golf Club, in Melbourne. I hit a drive onto the railway line and the ball bounce back onto the green – a distance of almost 50 metres. I missed the putt.

Tips

My best tip for golf is start young. There is no substitute for an early start and a good coach.

Most like to have a round with

I enjoy playing with any of my friends; it's a fine walk and we tend to laugh a lot.

Worst thing about golf

Slow play; always be conscious of how you are keeping up with the field.

Why golf?

Golf is great for exercise, friendship and the odd business deal. It is the quintessential setting for cementing business relationships.

Thoughts from the 19th hole

Having run and participated in numerous golf days, the answer is simple: learn to play golf; you will be in high demand.

Is there anything about the game you would change?

As an amateur golfer, I always need to play off the fairway for optimum outcomes. I agree with Greg Norman; you should be able to take relief from divots.

lifeandleisure@afr.com.au