Justin Timberlake has a solid six handicap but how did JT get into the game and why is he so passionate about it?
When did you start playing golf, and when did you discover you had a passion for it?
Justin Timberlake: I started playing golf about 9 or 10 years ago while I was on tour, and I had done 3 or 4 shows in a row. We were playing indoor arenas, and I started getting cabin fever. My stage manager and my crew got me out on the golf course. And that first round I hit like a perfect drive and then a pretty good approach shot on I think hole 18, and I was instantly hooked.
How often do you play?
Justin Timberlake: Not enough. I don’t get to play enough. I play whenever I can, but it’s a double-edged sword because if work is good, then work is good. That means you can’t have any time to play.
If you could pick from celebrities who play golf, who would be in your dream foursome?
Justin Timberlake: Well, I do enjoy playing with Sam Jackson. We always have a good time. I’d put Sam in there. Let’s see. I also enjoy playing with Andy Garcia. He’s a good friend. I’d put him in there. And then maybe somebody like Will Smith.
I think we’d all have fun together.
What’s the strongest part of your game?
Justin Timberlake: I would say my stronger parts are wedge play and chipping.
What’s the weakest part of your game?
Justin Timberlake: My long irons although ever since I got lessons from the right type of people my game is starting to come together. I definitely hit the ball a decent distance. Every pro says every tournament boils down to a putting contest. You have to be a good putter to be a good golfer.
If you could play in just one of the four major championships, which would it be?
Justin Timberlake: The Masters. It just seems like the most prestigious, the most sought after. But it’s a toss-up between that and the British Open. Going back to Scotland, Ireland, England, and the birth of the sport.
What’s your all-time favorite course/hole and why?
Justin Timberlake: You ask golfers which holes they love and they say their favorite hole is the one they eagled. They remember the one they played really well. I’ll say the 13th hole at Augusta because I eagled it and also because it’s Augusta and sacred ground. I also love my own course Mirimichi. I really do. I love it for so many reasons. I feel like we did something great for the community. And we ended up doing something great for the world – a lot of people will pay attention to how eco-friendly this establishment is and I hope it will make some waves.
Ever hit a hole in one?
Justin Timberlake: I have not. I came under an inch! Can you believe that? It was in Destin, Florida
What’s the best score you’ve shot?
Justin Timberlake: My best score? The best score that I’ve ever shot is even. Even par.