Michael Bonallack died in St. Andrews on Tuesday. He was a huge figure in amateur-golf, both as a golfer and then as an administrator. He was 88.
It’s like reading the list of British amateur golf awards and Bonallack wins. Bonallack was the British Amateur Champion five times between 1950 and 1970. He was also a four-time English champion in stroke play and five-time English Amateur Championship winner. Bonallack, who was twice the leading amateur at the British Open in 1968 and ’71, also represented GB&I for six World Amateur Team Golf Championships to win the Eisenhower Trophy. The last three were as Captain (1960, ’62, ’64, 66, 68, 70, & ‘72). In 1968, he shared the Individual title with American Vinny Gilles.
Sir Michael Bonallack driving off the seventh during the first round at The Old Course in St.Andrews on October 2, 2008. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images).
From 1957 to 1973, he was part of the Walker Cup squad for nine consecutive matches. He was the captain of the GB&I team in 1971 that won the Cup, which was the first time since 1938, at St. Andrews.
He said, “It doesn’t get any better, it can’t get any worse.”
He is the most accomplished amateur golfer in Great Britain and Ireland.
Bonallack was born in Chigwell in Essex in 1934. His parents first noticed his talent for golf while he was playing on the beach at age 10. Chigwell Golf club granted him membership and he began receiving coaching from the pro. Bonallack’s first amateur title was the British Boys in 1952.
Bonallack, despite his amateur achievements, chose to work in the family business of coach building. He once said, “I didn’t believe I was good until I got too old.” When I saw Jack Nicklaus and compared it to what I thought I could do, I noticed a huge difference. I thought I might starve to death if I became a professional.
Bonallack’s love of golf and dedication to the sport continued beyond his championship years. Bonallack served as chairman of European Tour from 1976 to 1982, chairman for the Golf Foundation between 1977-1982, and president of EGU in 1982. In 1983, he was appointed Secretary of The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews. He succeeded Keith Mackenzie. Bonallack’s role as Secretary of the R&A helped guide the sport into the 21st Century.
In 1992, he received the Donald Ross Award and in 2000 he was inducted into World Golf Hall of Fame. He was knighted in 1998 and was awarded the OBE in 1971. He was the R&A captain in 1999.
Bonallack was in a wheelchair at the opening of the 49th Walker Cup Match played earlier this month in St. Andrews. He played golf for the simple love of the game. He was asked, “Most people who play golf do so to escape their work.” What do you like to do for relaxation?
He replied, “I play golf,” without hesitation.
