Statement by President Michael D. Higgins on the death of Christy O'Connor Sr.
Date: Sat 14th May, 2016 | 17:46
14 May 2016
President Higgins today sent his sympathies to the family of golfing great Christy O'Connor Sr.
In a statement he said:
"I have learned with great sadness of the death of Christy O'Connor Sr.
A native of Knocknacarra, Christy opened up the ground for many talented golfers, and opened the world of golf to countless people in Ireland and abroad.
As a gifted sportsman and a wonderful human being, he was characterised by his commitment to his sport and to his community in the West of Ireland.
His death follows follows that, earlier this year, of another iconic figure in golf, his nephew Christy O'Connor Jr.
Both men were very proud of their West of Ireland connections and both gave support and sponsorship to many great voluntary organisations.
Christy Sr. will be sorely missed by his sporting colleagues, his community, and in particular by his very wide range of family and friends.
Those of us fortunate enough to have met him will never forget this outstanding man and his great character of humour and compassion.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."