Ryder Cup legend Bernard Hunt dies

Two-time Ryder Cup captain Bernard Hunt MBE has died at the age of 83.

As a player Hunt featured in eight of nine Ryder Cups between 1953 and 1969 – including the famous 1957 Great Britain victory over the United States at Lindrick – losing just three of ten singles matches.

In 1963 he and his brother, Geoff, became the first brothers to play in the same Ryder Cup team and he went to captain the side in 1973 and 1975.

His record as a player was impressive, winning the Order of Merit in 1958, 1960 and 1965 on his way to 30 titles and four top-five finishes at The Open.

Hunt, a founding member on the European Senior Tour when it was launched in 1992, is survived by his wife Meg and three children Matthew, Sophie and Viv.

“Bernard Hunt was one of Britain’s truly great champions and a steadfast ally to all involved in the growth of The European Tour,” said European Tour chief executive George O’Grady.

“He was enormously respected by all of his fellow players, as was evidenced when he was appointed Ryder Cup captain in 1973 and 1975 and captain of the PGA in 1966 and again from 1995 to 1997.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to Meg and all the extended Hunt family.”

Chief executive of the Professional Golfers’ Association Sandy Jones added: “He was one of the gentlemen of golf and his record on the course is one of the best in the British game.

“He will be missed greatly by those who played with and against him during those halcyon days.”