Golf legend John Jacobs dies, aged 91
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Tributes have started pouring in for true golfing legend John Jacobs, widely regarded as the “father of modern day golf”, who has died, aged 91.
And among the first was from PGA chief executive Sandy Jones who declared: “John Jacobs will be fondly remembered by those of us who were privileged to know him. He was a legend of the game and his name will sit at the top table with all the golfing greats.”
Jacobs did just about everything in golf apart from win a major championship though he was an outstanding player, competing in the 1955 Ryder Cup and recording two professional wins, including the 1957 Dutch Open .
But he will be best remembered for being the driving force behind the development of the European Tour, and his world-class coaching skills – he helped some of the top players including guiding Spaniard Jose Maria Olazabal to US Masters victory – and wrote the PGA’s first training manual. Today his principles are very much in place and remain at the core of every professional’s education.
He was also a two-time Ryder Cup captain, including the 1979 clash when European players competed for the very first time.
Rest in peace, John Jacobs. Gone but never forgotten…..
