Galway golfing legend passes away on holiday in Tenerife

GALWAY and Irish sport has been left reeling following the sad news of the sudden death of international golfing and Ryder Cup legend, Christy O’Connor Junior, aged just 67, in Tenerife in Spain yesterday (Wednesday).

Forever remembered for his breath-taking two-iron approach shot to the 18th hole at the Belfry, which in effect, was the shot that enabled Europe to retain the Ryder Cup in 1989, Christy, a nephew of another golfing legend, Christy O’Connor Sr., won four times on the European Tour.

In addition to playing in two Ryder Cups, other highlights of his career was shooting a then record first round of 64 at the British Open in 1985 while, in later years, he claimed two British Open Senior titles.

News of the great golfer’s passing has been met with shock and disbelief in every walk of life. Among those to pay tribute has been Taoiseach Enda Kenny, President Michael D. Higgins, Minister for Sport Michael Ring, golfers from around the globe and celebrities.

Mr. Kenny recalled: “No one will ever forget Christy O’Connor’s two-iron from the middle of the 18th fairway at the Belfry which retained the 1989 Ryder Cup for Team Europe. It is an image that will remain fixed forever in the minds of all Irish golf and sporting fans.

“I knew Christy personally and he loved and lived life to the full. His premature passing will be a source of great sadness to many Irish people and all golfing fans in Ireland and across Europe. He was a multiple winner on the European, Senior and Champions Tours.

“There’s no doubt however that his crowning glory was that famous Ryder Cup moment and a raft of other Irish golfers then followed in his footsteps to Ryder Cup greatness. Like his uncle, he was a trailblazer on the European Tour and an example to many aspiring golfers around the country,” said Mr. Kenny, who expressed his sympathy to the O’Connor family.

Describing Mr. O’Connor Jnr. as “an iconic figure in golf”, President Higgins stated that the Galway native “represented his country and its people on the international stage with distinction, dignity and great humour”.

See full tribute in this week’s Connacht Tribune.