Christy O'Connor In The HOF

From the Hall of Fame press release:

O’Connor, 84, turned professional in 1946 and during the 1960s won at least one professional tournament each year on The European Tour.  He became the first Irishman to win the Harry Vardon Trophy for leading the Order of Merit in 1961 and became the only Irishman to win the award twice in 1962.   

“We’re very excited and pleased to have Christy O’Connor join the World Golf Hall of Fame,” said Jack Peter, Sr. Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “His impact on the game, in Ireland and around the world, has been felt for more than 50 years and it’s an honor to welcome into the Hall of Fame family.” 

In 1955, O’Connor became the first player to win £1,000 for a tournament in European golf at the Swallow-Penfold.  And , in 1970, he captured the richest prize in competitive golf when he won the John Player Classic, collecting £25,000.  He was granted Honorary Membership of The European Tour in 2004 and his accolades go on to include the Tooting Bec Cup in 1961, 1963 and 1969 and the Association of Golf Writers Trophy in 1977. 

His impressive Ryder Cup career which extended from 1955 through 1973 included playing a part in the 1957 Ryder Cup victory at Lindrick, when the Great Britain and Ireland Team captained by Dai Rees ended 24 years of American domination. He still ranks near the top in several European Ryder Cup categories, including being the second oldest player to compete at age 48 in 1973, being tied for fifth for most matches played (36) and ranking second for most singles matches played (14). 

The man known as “Himself” holds the Irish record for most appearances in the World Cup with 15, and along with Harry Bradshaw helped Ireland win in 1958.