Michael Doherty - obituary

Michael Doherty, the long-time professional at City of Derry Golf Club, passed away on December 2, aged 77.

Michael grew up in Buncrana, Co Donegal and began his golfing career working alongside Norman Drew as an assistant at North West Golf Club under the guidance of Arthur Gilliland.

At just 17, Michael was appointed as the club professional at North West GC where he remained until he secured the job as club professional at City of Derry GC in 1972.

Michael enjoyed a long, successful tenure at City of Derry tending to the needs of the members before eventually retiring in 2008.

During that period he dedicated a lot of his time to the PGA in Ireland, serving on committee for many years, representing Ireland on the National Executive and holding the role as Captain in 1976.

He was also one of the driving forces behind the hugely popular City of Derry Pro-Am which ran for 20 years from 1992.

Michael was held in great esteem amongst his peers and in 2001, as part of the PGA Centenary celebrations, he was accorded the distinction of 'Best Club Professional'.

PGA in Ireland secretary Michael McCumiskey stated; “Michael was highly respected by all those who he met through the game of golf. He epitomised all that is good in the profession and was noted for his honesty and integrity.”