About
I was born in a small town called Cromwell which is in the Otago region of New Zealand's south island. The picturesque area is home to some of the world's best pinot noirs which may explain why I now consume so much of the local product.
As a youngster my family moved around a lot so it would be difficult to say I am from anywhere in particular. However it was in Waitangi that I joined my first golf club.
Growing up I played any number of sports but had a keen interest in soccer and swimming. By the time I reached 15 golf became my one and only sport.
I represented the north island on many occasions at both junior and senior level as well as New Zealand at a junior level, before heading south to Hawke's Bay for my final year of high school. It was here under the keen eyes of golf professional Brian Doyle at Flax mere Golf Club that I began to develop my golf game to a level necessary to represent New Zealand at a senior level.
After leaving high school I headed to Hamilton to attend the University of Waikato. During my time in 'mooloo' country I completed a Bachelor of Management Studies. I also captained and represented New Zealand in a number of major international amateur events including the World Amateur.
With my studies nearing their end I was faced with the daunting prospect of finding a full-time job. Luckily I won the New Zealand Amateur title the same year and this gave me automatic membership on the Australasian Tour. So faced with two options 1. Get a job. 2. Play golf for a living. I chose golf.
So at the ripe old age of 21 I turned professional and since then I have been enjoying all the opportunities that golf brings.
Profile
Name: Michael Long
Height: 6-2
Weight: 190
Birthdate: August 27, 1968
Birthplace: Cromwell, New Zealand College: Waikato
University (1990, Management Studies)
Turned Pro: 1990
