November 17, 2015 – The New Zealand golfer Michael Campbell, well remembered as champion of the US Open at Pinehurst in 2005, is now based in Marbella running his own golf academy, the Michael Campbell Golf Academy in Villa Padierna (Marbella). And although it’s been a few years since that milestone, he is still highly charismatic… on the Costa del Sol, Europe, Oceania, Asia, America… wherever he goes. So much so, that he recently received the IAGTO honorary award for his role in golf, during the International Golf Travel Market 2015 show in Tenerife.

It’s therefore no surprise that a brand like Crest Link has chosen Michael Campbell to showcase its colours. Golf apparel leader of the Asian market, Crest Link manufactures clothing in Microfiber of the highest quality, which has become popular among golfers thanks to its comfort in all climates, whether cool or hot, especially for its efficient moisture absorption and evaporation. The designs and colours are fashionable, for all types of player, and for both men and women.

Since his signing in 2013, we’ve got used to seeing Michael Campbell dressed in brightly coloured polo-shirts that accentuate his charismatic personality. As brand ambassador of Crest Link, he has become a key part of the brand’s image in the territories where it is well established, and in its strategy of expansion into new markets, such as Europe and Spain. We asked him about his experience with Crest Link:

MYGOLFWAY: After winning the 2005 US Open, you are now managing your own Michael Campbell Golf Academy in Villa Padierna, amongst other things. Can you tell us how you spend your time?

MICHAEL CAMPBELL: Well I obviously retired from professional golf earlier this year so that’s on hold, although I plan on coming back and playing the Seniors Tour in four years’ time when I’m 50. And at the moment I’m really focusing on giving back the game that’s given me so much.

The golf academy is taking up a lot of my time, and I’m really enjoying imparting the knowledge and experience I’ve accrued from 25 years on tour on to these younger guys who have got it all ahead of them. I’ve also been doing a bit of TV work for Fox Sports in Asia and I’ve been playing in the odd golf day or Pro-Am when I can as well. I played in the Necker Open recently, out on Richard Branson’s Island, which was a seriously cool experience.

MGW: As Crest Link Ambassador, when do you use the clothing of the brand?

MC: Basically whenever I’m out on the course, be it coaching or playing myself.

MGW: When did you start using Crest Link? Was it easy to accept their proposal?

MC: I started wearing Crest Link back in 2013 and it was certainly easy to accept their offer. I’m sure there were plenty of reasons but I guess you’d have to ask them to be sure!

MGW: Personally, what qualities of Crest Link garments would you highlight?

MC: Crest Links stands out to me because of the variety of materials and technical fabrics, and also naturally for its appealing colours.

MGW: In your opinion, what differentiates Crest Link from other technical golf apparel brand competitors? 

MC: I played a lot of my golf out in Asia where it can get incredibly hot and humid. Then I would say that the breathable garments that Crest Link produces are the best on the market, helping the golfer to manage comfortably those conditions.

MGW: Which technical features do you like most of Crest Link? As the brand slogan says, do you also think that Microfiber is the future in golf apparel? 

MC: As I’ve said the breathability is a big feature for me, and the Microfiber is a big factor in that. I would definitely say it could benefit most golfers as well.

MWG: Then, would you recommend the Crest Link polo t-shirts to your pupils?

MC: Yes for sure, it’s an easy sell! -says smiling-.

MGW: And to finish, its easy imagine that you feel ‘at home’ in the Costa del Sol, in Spain, but do you miss New Zealand?

MC: Well of course New Zealand will always be my “home” and of course I miss it. But I’ve built an amazing life for myself here in Spain and I’m very happy. I’ve got no thoughts of moving right now and there isn’t much that would make me change my mind.

Pictures: Courtesy of Andalucía Golf, Michael Campbell Golf Academy and Crest Link.