Updated 2pm
IRISH GOLFER Christy O’Connor Sr has died at the age of 91.
The news comes just four months after the sudden death of his nephew Christy O’Connor Jr in Spain.
O’Connor Sr passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning in Dublin’s Mater Hospital.
The Galway native played in the Ryder Cup 10 times – a record until Nick Faldo overtook him.
He won 44 tournaments in a glittering career whcih saw him inducted into the golf Hall of Fame in 2009.
“Christy O’Connor Senior was known as ‘Himself’ and always was himself, a wonderful man who left an indelible mark on professional golf and the sporting world,” An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny said in a statement this afternoon.
“He was a larger than life character and the owner of the best pair of wrists in the game. He was a master of touch and feel on the greens and his brilliant golf was iconic for so many people, ever before television brought golf tournaments into every home.
“As you might expect from a son of Ireland, rain or wind never mattered to him, he was always simply outstanding. Of course he is synonymous with the Royal Dublin Club from the 1950s on, when he blazed a trail through the world of golf. His record of achievement stands apart, including playing for Ireland in 15 world cups and 10 consecutive Ryder Cups. I met him many times and it was always a pleasure to meet someone who epitomised Ireland and made us so proud. I would like to convey my deepest sympathies to his family and many friends.”
Iggy Ó Muircheartaigh, GUI board chairman said: “Although I would always have admired him as the golfing legend he undoubtedly was, I came to realise that, perhaps more importantly, he was a perfect gentleman and a warm and friendly human being. My sincere sympathy to all the O’Connors at this difficult time.”
