Behind every successful golfer stands a caddie who does far more than just carry the bag. These unsung heroes provide crucial advice, emotional support, and strategic guidance during the most pressure-filled moments. Not only that, it is the caddies who are often on the receiving end of the players’ frustrations yet absorb that with calm. Look at this incident from 2022.
It was the third round of the season’s opening major in Georgia. The 2019 Open champion Shane Lowry had laid up on the par-5 13th but was left unhappy with the distance he had for the third shot, and who else would have the flairs the unhappiness other than his caddie? “Left myself no shot. What a f****** s*** layup that was. Well done, well done, Bo. Only 30 yards out. Well done,” nearby mics had caught Lowry saying.
On the line of the fire on that day was veteran caddie Brian ‘Bo’ Martin, who stood still despite the outburst. And by the end of the round, his inputs made Lowry finish joint-third behind Scottie Scheffler. Bob MacIntyre got it on point.
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“They understand it. Bo’s got thick skin…I think to be a caddie you’ve got to know that your player is going to get stressed and you are going to get hit. You’re a punchbag. You are there to take it sometimes. It’s about letting it roll off you and supporting the player. I think Bo has done an unbelievable job with Shane,” he had said- No denying that. However, Martin’s partnership with Lowry came to an abrupt end in 2023. The pair had reportedly lost their “spark” and “chemistry” after their successful run. But right now, rising PGA Tour star Min Woo Lee is ascending rapidly, riding on his ‘chemistry’ with veteran Martin.
Their partnership was formed in late 2024 after Lee parted ways with his previous caddie, Stuart Davidson, following the 2024 Olympic Games. Martin had been at a career crossroads himself and even considered stepping away from caddying altogether after his split with Lowry. But eventually, he ended up pairing with Lee. Let’s explore what makes their collaboration special.
The perfect match: How Min Woo Lee and Brian Martin joined forces
Martin’s calm demeanor and tactical brilliance perfectly complement Lee’s aggressive playstyle. The Australian has secured three top-20 finishes in four events with Martin on the bag. Their professional relationship officially kicked off at the 2025 Hero Dubai Desert Classic. Lee finished with a respectable T17 in their debut tournament together. Since then, their chemistry was immediately apparent to keen observers.
Martin’s major championship experience has proven invaluable for the 26-year-old Lee. The Australian golfer’s game has shown remarkable improvement under Martin’s guidance. His scrambling percentage has jumped from 63% with Davidson to an impressive 68% with Martin. Additionally, his bogey avoidance has improved significantly. He’s reduced his double-bogey rate by 40% compared to his 2024 season.
Lee’s aggressive “Let Him Cook” playing style initially seemed at odds with Martin’s methodical approach. However, they’ve found a perfect balance between creativity and restraint. “Bo doesn’t say much, but when he does, it’s like getting advice from Yoda,” Lee once quipped at the Genesis Invitational.
The results speak for themselves. Lee has achieved a remarkable three top-10 finishes in just four events with Martin on his bag. This performance marks a substantial improvement over his previous results. Martin’s calming influence appears to be exactly what the talented Australian needed to reach the next level.
The partnership between Lee and Martin is already showing tremendous potential, but to fully appreciate Martin’s impact, we must look at his impressive career journey before joining Lee’s team.
Brian ‘Bo’ Martin’s impressive caddie resume before Min Woo Lee
Long before joining forces with Lee, Martin had established himself as one of golf’s most respected caddies. One of his most memorable moments is obviously a major championship victory at the 2019 Open Championship at Royal Portrush with Shane Lowry.
That victory was especially meaningful as it took place in Northern Ireland. Martin hails from County Down and is a scratch golfer at Ardglass Golf Club. After their Open Championship triumph, Lowry paid Martin the highest compliment. “Bo has been incredible the last year. He’s brought a new lease of life to me,” Lowry said.
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The Irish golfer further emphasized Martin’s crucial role during the final round. “He was unbelievable today. He kept on my back all day, kept talking to me, he kept in my ear,” Lowry recalled. This ability to keep a player focused under extreme pressure is precisely what makes Martin so valuable. Martin’s impressive resume extends beyond his time with Lowry.
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He has caddied for multiple European Tour players, including Tyrrell Hatton, Gary Murphy, and Peter Lawrie. His extensive experience across various courses and conditions gives him unique insights that benefit Lee tremendously. Martin also brings a personal connection to professional golf. He’s the uncle of professional golfer Cormac Sharvin. This family tie to the professional game gives him additional perspective on the challenges players face.
As Lee and Martin continue their partnership, golf fans should watch this duo closely. The combination of Lee’s natural talent and Martin’s veteran wisdom creates a formidable team. With major championships on the horizon, this partnership could yield the biggest prizes in golf. The question isn’t if Lee will break through at the highest level, but when. And when that moment comes, don’t be surprised to see Brian ‘Bo’ Martin right there by his side, providing the calm guidance that transforms good players into champions.