Simon Owen was born in Wanganui and turned professional in 1971 then went on to win several tournaments in Australasia.
He played on the European Tour from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s, winning the 1974 German Open and the 1976 Double Diamond Individual Championship. His best finish on the European Tour Order of Merit was eleventh in 1974. His best finish in a major was at the 1978 British Open when he finished tied for second behind Jack Nicklaus. Earlier in the year, he finished in second place at the Malaysian Masters.
His victory at the 1976 New Zealand Open was played at the Wellington Golf Club on December 2nd to 5th, the Heretaunga course, which had been extended offering a stern test at 7056 yards and par 73.
The swirling winds, hazards and rough for which the layout is noted did however not prevent a similar final situation that which occurred when the Open was last played at this venue in 1954.
Simon Owen firmly established himself as a leader on the first two days and though several, including both Thomson and Brask, were able to better Owens third and fourth-round scores, his excellent start was sufficient to resist the challenge and claim the title.
Owen also represented New Zealand at the Dunhill Cup (1989, 1990) and the World Cup (1973, 1976, 1989).
Since 2001 Owen has played senior professional golf, and he has won two tournaments on the European Seniors Tour. He has also won the New Zealand PGA Seniors Championship on two occasions.
