- Ivor Robson began his role as The Open’s official starter at Carnoustie in 1975
- He annouced an incredible 18,995 players at the event in 41 years in the role
- Robson was honoured during an emotional send off at St Andrews in 2015
The man whose voice became synonymous with The Open and acted as its official starter for 41 years, Ivor Robson, has died.
The Moffat native announced 18,998 players at tournament, the last of which came in an emotional 2015 edition.
Robson was dubbed ‘Voice of The Open’ and delivered the iconic ‘On the tee…’ introductions at the event and many others.
CEO of the R&A golf club Martin Slumbers said: ‘We are deeply saddened to hear of Ivor’s passing.
‘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.
Legendary golf announcer Ivor Robson dubbed ‘Voice of The Open’ has died aged 83
Robson retired after 41 years as starter at the 2015 Open in St Andrews, Scotland
He witnessed the famous triumphs of many of the sport’s greats including Phil Mickelson, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods
‘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.’
Robson started the role in 1975 at Carnoustie. A former player on the Scottish Tour, he never made it as a touring pro and eventually found himself a home on the first tee, announcing the names of every participant in each round of every Open Championship since 1975.
He was present for all five of Tom Watson’s Open titles, victories by Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Jack Nicklaus, Seve Ballesteros, Gary Player and Rory McIlroy — as well as by the likes of Ben Curtis, Todd Hamilton, Bill Rodgers, Justin Leonard and John Daly.
