Found an old set of clubs in his garden shed at the age of eight, during the week of The Open Championship, and decided to take up the game. His father and two brothers all play, with his younger brother Paul also an exceptional talent. Coached by Ian Rae, he was the Scottish Amateur Champion in 2000, won the St Andrews Links Trophy in 2001 and played in the Eisenhower Trophy for Great Britain and Ireland in 2000 – before representing Great Britain and Ireland in the victorious 2001 Walker Cup team, joining Nick Dougherty, Luke Donald, Michael Hoey, Graeme McDowell and Marc Warren from that exceptional team on The European Tour International Schedule. Lost his playing privileges in 2007, but a tremendously consistent season on the Challenge Tour in 2008 – during which he finished in the top ten on five occasions – guaranteed O’Hara a return to The European Tour. Had to go through the Qualifying School in 2009 but secured ninth place to guarantee his card for 2010. Held on for his playing rights for 2011 in 113th place, but the following season was back at the Qualifying School after finishing 131st. Showed his class at PGA Catalunya to take the fifth card.