Ivor Robson, who was the official starter of The Open for 41 years, has died aged 83. He had one of the most distinctive voices in golf.
Born in England in 1940, he began his career at The Open at Carnoustie in 1975 and did not miss a championship until his retirement in 2015.
He was also the official starter of the European Tour for 40 years with his ‘on the tee’ message. His final Open Championship was the 2015 tournament at St Andrew's and his final European Tour tournament was in Dubai later that year.
"I feel you can’t go on forever and if you’re going to step off there’s no better place to do it than here,” he said in 2015.
"I’ve had some nice ones but this is special, St Andrews. It is just magnificent."
Ireland's Paul Dunne was the final player to be announced by Ivor at The Open.
"I grew up dreaming of it and it became my proudest moment was hearing my name announced by Ivor," Dunne posted on social media.
"A sad day for golf losing a legend. RIP."
GUYANCOURT , FRANCE, JULY 03, 2015 : Ivor Robson During the third round of the French Open, European golf tour, July 03, 2015 at The golf National, Guyancourt, France. Editorial credit: Isogood_patrick / Shutterstock.com
"We are deeply saddened to hear of Ivor’s passing," said CEO of The R&A Martin Slumbers.
"As official starter at The Open for over 40 years, his voice was instantly recognisable and synonymous with the Championship for players and millions of golf fans worldwide.
"He was popular and well respected among all golfers who played in The Open and I know that they will share in our sadness at this news. On behalf of all of us at The R&A, I would like to convey our heartfelt condolences to his wife of 61 years, Lesley, and the Robson family."
Ivor Robson. 1940 - 2023.
A voice synonymous with The Open. pic.twitter.com/NTEvkrggQl— The Open (@TheOpen) October 17, 2023
