Death of golfing legend is widely mourned

SPORTS Minister Michael Ring has paid tribute to golfing legend Christy O’Connor Junior, who has died at the age of 67.

Minister Ring described him as 'one of Ireland’s finest golfers and sportsmen, who contributed so much to sport in Ireland and was a role model for many Irish golfers.'

The deceased won four times on the European Tour, played in two Ryder Cups and secured two British Open Senior titles.

Christy O’Connor Junior, nephew of golfer Christy O’Connor Senior, will be best remembered for his two iron shot to the 18th hole at the Belfry before sinking the birdie putt that ultimately secured a Ryder Cup triumph for Europe in 1989.

He was also well-known as a golf course designer and remained active by fundraising for organisations in his native Galway.

He passed away suddenly while on holidays in Spain, and is survived by his wife Ann, son Nigel and daughter Ann.

The couple’s other son, Darran, died in a road accident in 1998 aged just 17.