Jeremy Chapman, a pioneering figure in golf betting and a former journalist for the Racing Post and Sporting Life, has been remembered by Dave Tindall, a former tipster who credits Chapman with transforming his life and career. Chapman, who passed away recently, was known for his uncanny ability to predict winners at odds that seemed almost prophetic, especially in an era when golf betting was a niche market.

From Horses to Golf: The Beginning of a Legacy

Tindall’s journey into golf betting began in the 1980s, when he started buying the Racing Post and Sporting Life, drawn initially by the racecards but soon captivated by Chapman’s golf previews. ‘Jeremy’s golf section soon became my first port of call,’ Tindall recalled, emphasizing Chapman’s logic, enthusiasm, and uncanny ability to pick winners at odds of 33/1 or higher, a feat that seemed almost supernatural given the 156-player fields in major tournaments.

Chapman’s insights opened Tindall’s eyes to the broader world of golf, beyond the Masters and the Open. ‘He helped me absorb the sport in a whole new way,’ Tindall said, noting how he followed Chapman’s tips via television or, in those days, Ceefax or Teletext.

From Tipster to Journalist: A Shared Passion

Tindall’s admiration for Chapman led to a career shift in 1997, when he joined Sporting Life as a digital service and took on the role of golf tipster, inspired by Chapman’s work. ‘The weekly puzzle of trying to solve who might win a PGA Tour or European Tour event fascinated me,’ Tindall said, adding that he always felt a sense of validation when Chapman’s tips aligned with his own.

Chapman’s ability to spot emerging talents was something Tindall greatly admired. ‘He taught me to keep viewing professional golf with a fresh eye, always tracking who might be ahead of the handicapper,’ Tindall said, noting that Chapman’s approach was a lesson in adaptability and open-mindedness.

A Meeting at the Open Championship

In 2006, Tindall had the opportunity to meet Chapman in person at the Open Championship. Although Tindall didn’t tip the eventual winner, Tiger Woods, he managed to secure some each-way returns via Jim Furyk, who was priced at 50/1. Chapman was quick to congratulate him, calling it a ‘brave choice’ given Furyk’s recent struggles.

Chapman’s generosity and camaraderie were evident even in moments of competition. ‘He always encouraged me and others rather than giving any sort of hint that we were stepping on his ground,’ Tindall said, highlighting the supportive culture that Chapman fostered within the golf tipping community.

A Legacy of Golf Betting

Chapman’s influence extended far beyond his own tips. In a message to Tindall, Chapman reflected on the origins of golf betting, crediting Tony Jacklin’s 1969 Ryder Cup victory as a turning point. ‘The Brits post-war were so hopeless at golf internationally, the game was never going to have huge betting appeal,’ Chapman wrote, explaining how Jacklin’s success created a market for golf betting.

Chapman’s role in the growth of golf betting was key. ‘I spotted a gap in the market and pushed it in the Life, providing several layers with my tissue as they had no golf experts,’ he recalled, detailing his early efforts to bring golf betting to the forefront of the Racing Post and Sporting Life.

Chapman’s rise to prominence was marked by a long run of winners, many at fat prices, and a period of immense success that included being wined and dined and even asked for his autograph on trains. ‘It was heaven!’ he wrote, describing the early days of his career before the internet changed the landscape.

Despite the challenges posed by the internet, which democratized access to data and information, Chapman’s legacy endured. ‘Golf writing was only a sideline as far as my job as deputy editor of the Life was concerned, but somehow I turned it into a niche industry,’ he said, noting that his work inspired others to pursue careers in golf betting.

Reflections and Tributes

Chapman’s influence is still felt today, with Tindall and others acknowledging the impact he had on their careers. ‘It warms my heart that I inspired people like you who have gone on to make a decent living out of it,’ Chapman wrote, reflecting on his career and the people he influenced.

Tributes from former colleagues and friends have highlighted Chapman’s character. ‘He was a lovely man,’ said former Racing Post editor Bruce Millington, echoing sentiments shared by many who knew him.

Chapman’s legacy is one of passion, generosity, and an unrelenting love for the sport. ‘Celebrate the successes, don’t get too down on the near-misses and revel in the shared enjoyment that golf betting can bring,’ Tindall concluded, urging others to honor Chapman’s memory with every winning bet.