Tributes flow for Christy O'Connor Jnr
06/01/2016
Tributes have been paid to former Ryder Cup hero Christy O'Connor Jnr who has died suddenly at the age of 67.
The Galway-native, who passed away in his sleep while on holiday in Tenerife, is best known for his two-iron approach shot to the 18th hole at the Belfry en route to a one hole victory against Fred Couples that would help Europe retain the Ryder Cup in 1989.
A four-time winner on the European Tour, including the Irish Open, Christy was the nephew of another Irish golfing legend, Christy O’Connor Senior.
O'Connor turned professional in 1967 and went on to represent Europe twice in the Ryder Cup, firstly in 1975, before his memorable second appearance 14 years later.
He played in more than 20 majors, finishing in a tie for third at the 1985 Open Championship at Royal St George's. His only Masters appearance came in 1977.
He won back-to back Seniors British Open titles in 1999 at Royal Portrush and 2000 at Royal County Down, and also represented Ireland a number of times in World Cups and Dunhill Cups.
PGA Chief Executive Sandy Jones: “It’s fair to say Christy will probably be best remembered for the incredible shot he hit at The Belfry in the 1989 Ryder Cup when he beat Fred Couples. It’s one of those moments that will live long in the memory of anyone who saw it.
“He was an outstanding player and also an Irishman who won the Irish Open so he had a good career including playing in two Ryder Cups – 14 years apart which was an amazing feat but more than that he was a really nice guy.
“I knew him quite well and did a few dinners with him and always enjoyed his company. The great thing about him was that he always had a laugh and a smile on his face and was a legendary figure of Irish golf.
“He was a great character and I was very shocked and very saddened to hear of his sudden passing and he will certainly be missed.”
George O’Grady, Chief Executive of The European Tour from 2004-2015, said: “It is a very sad day for the O’Connor family and for Ireland as a whole.
“Christy Jnr was a legendary figure and his immense legacy is far more than purely his playing record. He was a universally popular player and always enhanced every tournament he played, no matter the occasion. His infectious charm will be sorely missed.”
Ken Schofield, Executive Director of The European Tour from 1975-2004, said: "Christy Jnr’s playing record will rightly depict him as one of Ireland and Europe's leading players of his generation – the generation that set the template for today's global European Tour.
“Much more so for everyone involved with the Tour and the game of golf, Christy will be remembered as a gentleman spirit – every amateur golfer's dream as the perfect Pro-Am partner, on and off the golf course. It is a very sad day for the gameand our hearts go out to Ann and all the extended family.”
PGA in Ireland secretary, Michael McCumiskey added: “He was a legend. Not only because of what he achieved but also because of the ambassadorial role he played for Irish golf.“Christy was hugely popular, not only amongst his fellow touring professionals across the world, but also with members of the Association.
“He was a great supporter of PGA golf in Ireland and over the years his goodwill and influence was vitally important to the success of a vast number of events and tournaments.”
O'Connor also carved out a career as a highly respected golf course designer. Amongst the courses he had a hand in designing or renovating are Concra Wood in Co Monaghan, Galway Bay, Headfort New and Mount Wolseley GC.
Fellow Ryder Cup star and contemporary, Des Smyth said: “He was a legend with star quality, both on and off the golf course. A great friend to all professionals.”
Irish Taoiseach, Enda Kenny tweeted: “Very sad to hear of the passing of Ryder Cup hero Christy O'Connor Jnr. Deepest sympathies to his wife Ann, daughter Ann and son Nigel.”
He is survived by his wife Ann, daughter Ann and son Nigel. Sadly, his other son Darren died in a tragic road accident in 1998 aged just 17.
