After a successful amateur career Tinning turned professional in 1985, however, his career was interrupted when he and his wife were involved in a car crash in Germany which kept him out of action for 18 months. Secured his first European Tour title when he captured The Celtic Manor Resort Wales Open in 2000 and added a second in 2002, just weeks after his 40th birthday.

 
The Dane then went on to win twice on the European Senior Tour at the Berenberg Masters and at the English Senior Open, in his first season on the Legends Tour. Known as the Legend Tour’s Iron Man after taking up the gruelling endurance challenges to help with his fitness for golf, he celebrated his first victory by taking part in a half-Ironman championship. To date, Tinning has competed in four Ironman competitions.