The Association of Golf Writers joined the golf world to mourn the passing of Renton Laidlaw.
Henry Renton Laidlaw was born on Thursday, 6th July, 1939 in the Morningside district of Edinburgh.
Renton joined the Association of Golf Writers (AGW) in 1963. Fifteen years later in 1978 he became Secretary of the AGW and proudly served in the role to 1995. Also in 1995, Renton was made a ‘life member’ of the AGW. That same year (1995), Renton accepted the role of Chairman of the AGW and occupied the position till 1998. In 2004, Renton became President of the AGW and a position he held to 2015.
Sadly, Renton passed away on Tuesday 12th October, 2021 in Ninewells Hospital, Dundee.
The AGWs current President Lewine Mair and current Chairman Martin Dempster lead the tributes to Renton while tributes thereafter are posted as they were received.
Tributes from outside of the AGW are led by a wonderful and moving tribute from Renton’s good friend and AGW vice-president Jack Nicklaus.
LEWINE MAIR – President AGW
In an interview with our Chairman, Martin Dempster, Bernard Gallacher described Renton Laidlaw as “a thoroughly good guy”. Renton was exactly that. He worked incredibly hard while counting himself lucky that everything he did – from writing, to radio, to TV – came easily to him. That said, he was never less than humble.
From our Association’s point of view, Renton was a soothing presence. Whatever the latest drama in the golfing world, he was never too busy to greet his everyday friends. What is more, even if he was in conversation with a legend like Jack Nicklaus, whom he knew particularly well, he would happily bring others in on the chat.
You only had to mention Renton’s name to any of the golfers of his vintage or thereabouts and, almost always, there would be a preliminary chuckle before some incident from the past was given an airing. David Huish, the former North Berwick professional whose son, Martyn, took over from him in 2009, had a wealth of lovely stories to tell a day or so after Renton’s death.
He took me back to the 1970s and a tournament which was held on a famous municipal course in Bournemouth. In a year when every fairway, or so it seemed, was overly busy with cyclists, prams and dogs, people were beginning to think that this was no place for a serious event.
That in itself made for a story on a day when nothing much else was going on but the writers were looking for something more.
When Huish spotted a handful of them, with a dog-walking companion, standing beside an adjacent green, he decided to take a closer look. As it turned out, Dai Rees, probably the strongest player afield, was about to tackle a ten-footer.
Huish, whose own game had come to a standstill, had a good view through the writers’ legs of the great man taking his putter back. Simultaneously, he had an even better view of one of the writers – he was not about to name Renton but neither was he about to rule him out -stepping just hard enough on the dog’s tail to prompt a yelp.
An angry Rees missed his putt and the media party scuttled happily back to base with the final touch to a story which would make headlines the following day.
Even if he did indulge in the odd trick of the trade in his younger days, Renton was trusted by all and sundry. The players knew he would not to be too harsh in the event of any misdemeanours on their part. Again, as he told John Huggan in a wonderful interview which took place just a couple of months before his death, he never failed to abide by that old unwritten rule that what happened off the course was not to be a reported.
Renton enjoyed the company of the golfing fraternity and how lucky we were to have him serving first as our Chairman and then as President. Meanwhile, those of you who attended any of the Golf Writers’ dinners during his reign will have fond memories of him reciting the Selkirk Grace in that unforgettable Scottish voice.
Some hae meat and canna eat, And some wad eat that want it, But we hae meat and we can eat, Sae let the Lord be Thankit!
Martin Dempster (Chairman, AGW)
There are some names that come up on your phone that can make you want to ignore the call, but nothing could have been further from the truth when you saw the person trying to get hold of you was Renton Laidlaw.
In the 57 years I have been around, I have never come across anyone who had a knack of creating warmth in people through being such a gem of a human being than my dear friend Renton.
Like so many others, I had grown up listening to his dulcet tones as BBC Radio’s golf correspondent and it was a thrill and honour to be in his company.
We shared a love for the Edinburgh Evening News, having both valued our time covering the game in Scotland’s capital city and, in particular, the Dispatch Trophy up at The Braids.
Renton may have gone on to become one of the most-recognisable faces and one of the most-respected names in golf around the world, but he never forgot his roots.
Indeed, he loved nothing more than returning to his home city, where one of his favourite eateries was Cafe St Honore in North West Thistle Street Lane.
He also loved dining in the R&A Clubhouse in St Andrews and it was always a real pleasure to be invited by Renton for lunch and actually feel as though you were there with someone who had the ability to seem as though he could have been your father, such was the respect you felt for him.
In return for his generous hospitality, I had always promised him a visit to my own club, Aberdour, but, due to a combination of factors, including the damned Covid-19 pandemic, we never managed that, unfortunately, and now it’s too late.
I will deeply regret that for the rest of my life, but, at the same time, I will treasure lots of great memories, including an informal get-together with other members of the golf media at his home at Drumoig during the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship a few years back.
As his sister Jennifer, who is cut from exactly the same cloth, has often mentioned in subsequent conversations, Renton was in his element that day, having received a welcome boost at a time when he was recovering from being poorly.
I know I can speak on behalf of everyone there that day, though, by saying the pleasure was actually ours because any time in the company of Renton Laidlaw was something to cherish.
He was gifted as a writer and a broadcaster, but, more than anything, I will remember him as the finest human being I have ever met.
Mark Garrod (Past AGW Secretary)
Throughout my time on the golf scene with the Press Association – nearly 35 years – there was nobody quite like Renton. And nobody that you more looked forward to seeing wherever you went in the world.
It was, quite simply, an honour to succeed him as AGW secretary in 1995, but he was, of course, an impossible act to follow in so many ways. Whether it was as secretary, as a newspaper reporter, radio or television commentator, book author, editor of the Golfer’s Handbook, after-dinner speaker or companion he just made it all look so easy.
The reason for that was simple – he loved it. Loved the sport, loved talking or writing about it, loved spending all the time he could with people inside and outside the ropes. As it was for the equally sadly missed Jock MacVicar, another single man, it was a huge part of his life.
Finding your feet as a “new kid on the block” is never straightforward, but Renton could not have been more helpful to me right from the start and I treasure the many times we spent together.
I didn’t know him as anything other than a central figure in the AGW. He was already secretary when I joined in 1982 and when I stepped into that position in 1995, he became chairman for the following three years, guiding me through all that the job (honorary and unpaid then!) entailed.
And not long after he stepped down as chairman he took over from Michael McDonnell as president and was still there when I took early retirement in 2014.
When his dear friend Mark Wilson, another former chairman, died Renton travelled to Sunningdale despite his clearly frail health and gave a wonderful tribute. Of course he did – nobody would have expected anything less however sick he was.
I remember at the 1997 Ryder Cup at Valderrama Renton was due to speak at the media dinner, a grand affair hosted by Jimmy Patino in the clubhouse. He had to pull out of it late on because of ill-health and I instantly knew that it would be unfair to ask anyone else to step in, so I did it despite my hatred of public speaking. I got through it, but I knew that both in delivery and content it wasn’t a patch on what Renton would have said. My admiration for his many talents grew even higher.
Coincidentally, the European Tour is back at Valderrama this week and the players are wearing black ribbons in memory of a small man, but giant of the sport. How we will miss him, but what memories.
Mitchell Platts
Renton was my best friend and the best of friends to my family, my wife Hillie and our children Charlotte, to whom he is Godfather, and Elliott. The world of golf has lost the kindest, dearest man and a man loved by everyone fortunate to know him. With Renton I toured the continent by car in the formative years of the European Tour, enjoying one adventure after another with players, officials, caddies and, of course, many AGW members, with memorable times in Australia and at the Majors especially The Masters.
At home he and Jennifer hosted many entertaining lunches including our very special family Boxing Day feasts in London. Renton Laidlaw was a genuine, humorous, generous gentle man and a gentleman of the highest order who enjoyed an incredible life and enriched the lives of all his family and friends. We are all heartbroken and our thoughts today and always are with Jennifer.
Tony Adamson
Renton was born to a life in golf, and with his sad death comes the fervent hope that his immense contribution to the game he loved over 60 years will be properly commemorated and celebrated by those responsible for its future development.
I had the great privilege of sharing BBC commentary boxes and studios with Renton across the golfing universe, from Augusta to the Forest of Arden. He was a gifted broadcaster, enthusiastic, sympathetic and compassionate, spreading the golfing gospel with that distinctive, relaxed Scottish lilt, combined with unmatched authority, which won him respect and acclaim in equal measure from an international army of disciples.
Renton was golfing royalty. He was on first-name terms with the game’s elite. So gregarious and charming and amusing, his company was much sought after, and I greatly appreciated our friendship over many years. And I was often envious too, especially of his passion for travel. Apparently Renton would suddenly wish to cover a golf story on the other side of the planet knowing there was an airline parked immediately at his convenience! He had friends everywhere. Some said he had more spare airline tickets in his wallet than credit cards!
The tributes to Renton’s life and times have been richly deserved, especially the warm words of Martin Slumbers, the R and A Chief Executive, which got me thinking. Where better to erect a permanent reminder of Renton’s extraordinary career than at the Old Course at St Andrews. Not, perhaps, with a statue of the man himself behind the 18th green, though is that so absurd? I can hear Renton’s characteristic chuckle from here! Instead, why not name reception at St Andrews Clubhouse “The Renton Laidlaw Room,” with his beloved sister, Jennifer, unveiling it on the first day of the 150th Open championship next July. I can see Renton’s smile from here.
Isabel Trillo
No way!!! When tears lefts my eyes I m want to write my memories about Renton. DEP my dear friend.
You can still toast with Seve somewhere over the rainbow. Sad Isabel
John Whitbread
Although this was not a surprise, the news that our dear pal Renton has passed away still comes as a real shock. He was a superb journalist and broadcaster but just as importantly a mentor. inspiration and valued companion from when I first started covering golf in the 1970s.
I remember very clearly how Renton, along with Michael McDonnnell and the late Ronnie Wills used to provide invaluable information and encouragement and were willing to make a weekly paper reporter feel a valued part of the band of brothers and sisters that makes the AGW such a special organisation.
It was Renton who encouraged and helped me prepare an entry for the Regional Sportswriter Year of the year award which I won in 1990. for which I will always be grateful.
Renton was a natural storyteller and I will always remember him keeping a group of us captivated during a lovely lunch in the clubhouse at St Nom La Breteche during a Lancome Tournament. He told a particularly wonderful tale about a talking pillow that kept him awake during one trip to America and about another time when he had to do a broadcast from under a table in a noisy Press Tent. I am sure that those members who went with him to America and around the world will have many more stories to share.
A few years ago, at the funeral of Mark Wilson, Renton was sat in a corner looking rather frail. But when he was asked to say a few words, he soon had the gathering totally absorbed and entertained for a full 20 minutes.
Despite having to battle failing health he still sent a signed Christmas card every year. My sideboard will be a little barer this December. Rest well dear pal.
Iain Carter (Past AGW Chairman)
Renton Laidlaw brought golf to life for millions of radio listeners just at the time the game was booming. The way that he spoke suited golf to a tee; distinctively but softly Scottish, gloriously pleasant to the ear and always carrying great authority. Whether it was a Ballesteros, Lyle or Faldo or a Santiago Luna or Jose Maria Canizares, Renton’s delivery seemed to generate an exotic glamour around these players.
The first professional tournament I attended was at the Belfry in the late 1980’s and the first voice I encountered upon entering the media tent was that of Renton Laidlaw. I knew exactly who was speaking despite having no idea what he looked like at that time. I approached him to ask if he would give me an interview and he could not have been more helpful. That initial encounter is the first of many treasured memories I have of the great man.
To me and, I believe, to millions of others around the world he was “Mr Golf”. Indeed, he was a king of the sport. He was royalty in our profession due to the enormous respect he commanded. It was hard earned, through journalistic endeavour and talent and that esteem came from players, colleagues and audiences alike.
Just as importantly, Renton was a gentleman in the truest sense of the word. A gentle man, he had time for everyone. He was always delightful company, a great story-teller and as I discovered all those years ago naturally generous with his time and knowledge. He was like that the first time that we met and was just the same in our last encounter, when I had cause to interview him in St Andrews shortly before the Covid pandemic struck. Naturally, at his behest, our meeting involved taking me for lunch in the R&A clubhouse. It was an occasion I shall never forget.
The golfing world is grieving for one of its most significant media figures. I would like to offer sincere sympathies to his sister Jennifer and to all of the colleagues with whom he closely worked in newspapers, radio and television. I also give thanks for his unstinting support to the AGW in so many different capacities – secretary, chairman and president. He was a towering figure for our organisation.
And a personal thank you, Renton, for your pioneering work in covering golf on the radio – no one made the sport sound better. You are greatly missed.
Liz Kahn
Sad indeed that Renton has died and we will no longer talk to the lovely man that he was, with the wonderful voice. His talent was outstanding and it seemed to flow so naturally from him that he made it all appear easy. He was loved and appreciated in so many corners of the world but he always had time for those of us around him over the years.
Renton was encouraging, interested in talking to you, humorous and always incredibly equable. He did so much for the AGW over the years and was always a figure of stability and vast knowledge together with a warm personality.
I will miss Renton enormously – I phoned him at home from time to time and so enjoyed the contact.
Sadly, I sent him a card that he will not receive. But the memories are there and over a long period of time – the whole of my golf writing career.
Art Spander
Sad, sad news. Wonderful man
Peter Higgs (AGW Treasurer)
Renton Laidlaw was without doubt a giant of the golfing community. He was a gifted and knowledgeable reporter, an outstanding broadcaster, a stalwart of the Association of Golf Writers, which he served with such distinction, and, above all, a wonderful friend to us all. With his ever-cheerful demeanour and generous spirit Renton was one of those people it is a privilege to have known.
I got to know him in somewhat unusual circumstances. My first overseas assignment for the Mail on Sunday was to cover the 1984 Spanish Open in Madrid, where a thief broke into my hotel room and stole my briefcase containing my passport, wallet and other valuables. Not the ideal start but, as I flapped around like a duck in a thunderstorm, I was fortunate to have Renton staying in the next room. What better man to provide the calm reassurance and support I needed to cope with such a potentially alarming situation.
Over the years I was to discover that such acts of kindness were typical Renton. We remember him as a proud Scot delivering grace at every dinner we attended on the golf circuit. . We remember his distinctive voice coming through the airwaves, including a stint hosting Sports Report . We remember his amusing, eloquent, anecdotal, sometimes lengthy speeches. And we remember him being around. There was no golf tournament worth its name that did not include Renton in the Press tent.
On a personal note Renton was so encouraging to me after I became AGW treasurer, while I loved the picture of him with Kathy Shearer, two of the greats of the golf media scene.
He is another good man gone and we will miss him enormously. RIP Renton..
Patricia Davies
I had people round to mine for bridge on Wednesday evening (which meant I missed tai chi but sometimes something has to give). It was lovely, a really happy occasion, with lots of chat and laughter, some intense but not entirely classic play, some serious discussion and a warm realisation that there’s nothing like friends for making life worthwhile.
We at the AGW (Association of Golf Writers) have been losing friends hand over fist recently – I suppose we’re that sort of age – but the good thing is that the sadness is tempered with memories of lots of laughs and lives well lived, giants of a golden age of golf. There have been some wonderful tributes to Renton Laidlaw, whose picture (technical glitches permitting) appears at the top of this piece. Renton, who has just died at the age of 82, started out at the Edinburgh Evening News (his first Open, pre his official appointment, was Muirfield in 1959, sending in the scores); became well known on local telly; moved to the Evening Standard in London; then really made his name in television and radio – he was BBC radio’s golf man for many years and thanks to the World Service his warm, Scottish voice was recognised all over the globe; then the Golf Channel made him a star in America.
I always remember a stint he did on ITV – their foray into golf, an expensive sport to cover, was brief – and there was some sort of major delay, weather or whatever and Renton filled majestically – on live TV. It was a real tour de force, typical of the man whose speeches were always fascinating and enlightening but never renowned for their brevity. In his considerable, enduring heyday – he became the first European journalist to cover 40 Masters – he was non-stop, criss-crossing the globe as though he were a shark that would stop breathing if it stopped moving. He was here, there and everywhere, knowledgeable, informative, respected and loved by the great, the good and the rest of us. His work for the AGW was immense: secretary from 1978-1995, chairman from 1995-1998 and president from 2004-2015 (thanks to Alistair Tait’s lovely tribute – one of many from all over the world – for the dates). We were so lucky to have him.
Renton never married – he had some near misses I was told but charmingly dodged and weaved his way into the wide, blue yonder, leaving a bruised heart or two in his wake. He hadn’t been that well for the last few years and had given up the travelling but he kept going cheerfully, keeping tabs on things from his home in Drumoig, near St Andrews, where he lived with his sister Jennifer, a wonderful support and foil. Condolences to her and love and hugs.
Petra Himmel
Women journalists were scarce in golf when I started working in this segment in the ’90s. Renton was always an advisor, supporter and great authority on the sport back then, helping me out numerous times. Many thanks for that!
Norman Dabell
Losing Renton will leave a vast chasm in the ranks and annals of the AGW but his passing gives particular sadness, no, heartbreak, for me. I am indebted to many people but Renton was my mentor. Quite simply, without his advice and guidance I would not have had the career I have enjoyed since meeting him in 1979.
In that year, at the Dunlop Masters at Woburn, Renton’s inspiration and kindness provided the launch-pad to a life in golf journalism. Not only did he introduce me to some of the world’s best players that week but gave me a guiding hand on how to cover a golf tournament and told me all about the AGW. He even found me a place next to himself and Sandy Lyle at the presentation lunch. I decided there and then where my future lay.
When I embarked on my freelance career, he was a major influence in establishing it, opening the way to my joining the AGW and helping me find work. This was most critical in 1992 when he recommended me to the BBC as his replacement, reporting on golf. Over the years Renton was always there for me, his influence in the business often opening doors I couldn’t have walked through on my own. How would I have found myself at a glittering gala night at Monte Carlo Sporting Club, close to the Rainiers, with Renton and Jennifer by my side, otherwise?
Like all his friends and colleagues, I’ll remember him for his charm and didactic memory of escapades by him and colleagues over the years and around the world. It made him the best raconteur I’ve known. We all relied on his wisdom. He was always ready to say a few words when a speech was needed. How many times, over the years, did an occasion begin with his lines from Robbie Burns? “Some hae meat and canna eat…” Renton really did appreciate what life had given him. And we’ll forever appreciate what he gave to us.
Gordon Richardson
Renton was the heart and soul of golf journalism and I owe much to him. When I left Fleet Street to sail solo into freelance waters in the 70s Renton, alreadyan established golfing globetrotter, sold the idea of me becoming official Safari Circuit correspondent tthe European Tour.
(Front Row – L to R Bill Elliott, John Morgan, Renton Laidlaw, Ron Moseley, Micky Britten, Derek Lawrenson, Bill Blighton, Jeremy Chapman, Jack MacGowan & Frank Clough
With the likes of Faldo, Lyle and Woosnam teeing it up in Nigeria,Kenya,rhe Ivory Coast and Zambia (their then President,Kenneth Kaunda was a pal of Renton) the British press welcomed my despatches. I made a bob or two and it led to bigger and even better things.
Later in life when I was editing golf magazines and videos, I often needed voice pieces from superstars like Palmer and Niklaus and Renton, who they all knew and respected, would put his multiple other obligations on hold and grab some words for me.
He was the ultimate professional…bags of contacts, bags of charm, bags of energy.
In his role of longtime AGW secretary he displayed equal energy. I served on many committees at his side and marvelled at his wisdom and capacity for calm, considered management of members’ needs and demands.
Renton had already been an AGW member for three years when I joined in 1966. He was there to welcome me, still there to wish me well on my retirement in 2007 and still finding time to telephone me a few short months ago for news of my life down here in rhe Dordogne.
Renton Laidlaw was a one-off … a silky skilled operator the likes of which we will probably never see again in rhe golfwriting ranks.
Rest in peace my friend.
Donald Steel (Past AGW President)
It is perfectly true to say Renton gave his life to the AGW. He was our perfect Ambassador, the only person to have served as Secretary, Chairman and President. It is impossible to put into words the debt we owe him.
Michael McDonnell (Past AGW Chairman & President)
I first met Renton in 1962 when he worked on the Edinburgh EveningNews and we were friends and colleagues ever since. I admired his warmth and integrity in all matters particularly in his role as AGW secretary. In common with others, we travelled the world together in pursuit of golf. He was a delightful companion and his friendship extended beyond the game so that he knew all my family and kept a note of their progress. A truly remarkable and rare man.
Bernie McGuire (AGW Secretary)
In my long years travelling the world reporting on golf, I can honestly say there have been just a handful who I looked-up to who really went out of their way to make me feel welcome among the ranks of the European Tour golf writers.
One of those sadly passed away early on Tuesday evening.
The Association of Golf Writers were fortunate to be teeing-up at Delamere Forest and also Royal Liverpool in our final two matches of an extended Covid-19 affected 2020/21 AGW ‘Race to Hoylake’ golfing season.
One person was on the lips of those near 20 members who travelled to tee-up and that was Renton Laidlaw. Renton had been known to be ill but it came as a shock on Saturday to learn he had been rushed to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee. Renton was in our thoughts for a golfing reason given as for the first time in AGW history, arrangements had been made to have all six AGW golf trophies present for a photograph ahead of teeing-up at Hoylake. One of the trophies was the now two-year old Renton Laidlaw Quaich.
Since 1986, the Association had been playing for the Presidents Putter, won initially by Scotland’s legendary Malcolm Campbell, who was present for our two golf outings. Malcolm is now retired after a highly-distinguished career in golf reporting. In May 2020, he had the honour of hitting the ceremonial opening tee-shot at Dumbarnie Links just a short distance from his Lower Largo home in Fife.
The President’s Putter is a cumbersome, long wooden item and when the Daily Mirror’s Neil McLeman, as defending champion, arrived with it at Portstewart Golf Club in 2019 and spoke of the drama he had getting the trophy onto his EasyJet flight to Belfast, it was agreed the time had come to arrange a new more ‘manageable’ trophy.
As Secretary of the Association, I proudly say it was my initiative to begin arranging to stage AGW golf events in Ireland given so many members were Irish-born and were missing out on AGW competition. We did that firstly with the hosting in 2015 at Kilkeel Golf Club of the Michael Williams Hogget.
In planning for a new trophy, I immediately thought of Renton and though his body was failing him, his mind remained razor sharp as no sooner had I suggested if he’d be agreeable to the AGW using his name on a new trophy and Renton demanded, and ever so politely, that he pay for the new trophy along with the costs of reproducing onto the new trophy, to be named ‘The Renton Laidlaw Quaich’, all those names from 1986 to 2019 who had won the Presidents Putter. Such was Renton’s nature. He didn’t mention the cost and all he sought was it be a quaich and so at Kingsbarns Links in late 2020, the AGW celebrated the opportunity to tee-up in the 20th anniversary year of Kingsbarns Links for the inaugural hosting of ‘The Renton Laidlaw Quaich’.
Unfortunately, Renton was not fit enough to travel from his home in Drumoig to Kingsbarns Links.
I first got to know Renton when I began to get into the deep end of golf reportig in the early-1990s. Renton would travel out to Australia at the end each year to report on the then ‘Big-3’ in Australian golf – the Australian Open, Australian PGA and Australian Masters. In contrast, I was returning home to Sydney every year after months on end plying the European Tour so our paths naturally crossed, and the more we would ‘bump’ into each other, the more I got to know him. It even got to the stage when Renton would actually welcome me home to Australia, and this from a Scot.
Of course, Renton held legendary golf status whereas I was on the bottom rung and still somewhat finding my feet. I was also still a decade away from joining the AGW and that was in 2002. Renton had already served as AGW Secretary and then AGW Chairman before I joined the ranks and was then appointed as President in 2004, two years after I became a member.
The last time I saw Renton in person was when he invited Martin Dempster, as Chairman of the AGW, and myself as Secretary, to lunch in Edinburgh nearly two-years ago on the 30th October, 2019.
In becoming Secretary in mid-2014, I ‘inherited’ around 10 fully laden cardboard boxes of AGW records, files, photographs and what have you that are currently in storage in Dundee. However, before placing them into storage, I spent time looking over the files and what struck me was the huge number of letters, copies of other forms of correspondence and the great amount of the papers bearing Renton’s name and/or signature. Of course, in those days everything had to be mailed but the volume of time he must have spent writing out letters, posting the letters and then following-up with ‘thank you’ notes or whatever made me wonder how he ever managed to undertake his own reporting duties.
Some of the best times with Renton were recently. Accepting his offer to join him for lunch in Edinburgh, working with him on a new AGW golf trophy, arranging for he and his beloved sister, Jennifer to be present at our 2018 AGW annual dinner in the week of The Open at Carnoustie, and that night seeing how much Ernie Els and his wife Leizel were delighted to be present given Ernie and his then girlfriend had been guests at Renton’s Sunningdale house when Ernie first began playing on the European Tour.
From those times in the early 1990s to late 2019 when I last saw Renton in person, he never changed. Yes, his then 80-year body looked very fragile but his mind remained strong and that welcoming manner I had first encountered as a somewhat ‘still wet behind the ears’ young golf reporter trying to find my way in Europe, was just as warm and friendly as it had been all of 30-years or more ago.
Added to that was a wonderful thought of a Christmas card I would receive each year from Renton.
The AGW has lost three former Presidents since April with the passing of Jock MacVicar, Goran Zachrisson and now Renton Laidlaw. All I can say is what a golf-writing threesome now playing the fairways in heaven.
Click on: http://www.golfbytourmiss.com/2021/10/renton-laidlaw-a-tribute-by-bernie-mcguire/
Bob Davies (Past AGW Treasurer)
My abiding memory of Renton is the warm greeting he gave me when I was proud to be elected a member of the AGW over 30 years ago.
I was one of a number of provincial golf writers being admitted to an organisation which, at the time, consisted predominantly of national newspaper journalists.
Renton was the secretary during that period and the memory of the friendly welcome he gave us has lived with me ever since. From that moment my respect for Renton soared immeasurably and, I’m pleased to say, it cemented a friendship which I have treasured ever since.
He was so talented as a writer and commentator and his passing will be deeply mourned throughout the world of golf.
Alistair Tait
It wasn’t easy breaking into the world of golf writing when I first started out. Thankfully, people like Renton Laidlaw and a few others helped me establish myself in the often cliquey, share no stories world of the European Tour press tent.
Renton, who passed away yesterday aged 82, went out of his way to help me, and other young writers, navigate through media centres. Not only that, but sit and have lunch with me, invite me to dinner, ask me if I was getting enough work, and to let him know if I needed help or advice and he’d only be too happy to help. The preceding sentence might sound a bit meagre but, believe me, for a young writer it was massive. And he WAS a huge help.
Seve Ballesteros often said the European Tour was one big family, with all its feuds and friendships and everything else that goes with any ordinary family. Ditto for European golf writers. Renton, along with other respected senior figures, was part of the glue that held the Association of Golf Writers together as far as I and other writers were concerned. Renton joined the AGW in 1963, was secretary from 1978–1995, chairman from 1995–98, and president from 2004–2015.
It was because of Renton I first heard the “Selkirk Grace,” one I’ve used many times at Tait family dinners. It has been attributed to Robbie Burns, but there’s dubiety on whether Burns actually penned the lines or just appropriated Lord Selkirk’s. Renton had no problems appropriating these famous lines to open every AGW dinner on the Tuesday evening before the Open Championship.
“Some hae meat and canna eat, And some wad eat that want it, But we hae meat and we can eat, Sae let the Lord be Thankit!”
It just wasn’t an AGW dinner without those words rolling off Renton’s mellifluous tongue.
Renton began his media career at the Edinburgh Evening News, graduated to the London Standard, worked in radio and then made the move to television. His dulcet tones have been heard in living rooms all over the world. As Renton wrote in Forgive Us Our Press Passes: A History of the Association of Golf Writers, he made an interesting start to his distinguished career:
“My start in golf reporting proper was dramatic enough. Although I had worked sending scores from the 1959 Open Championship when the press tent was just big enough to accommodate the 30 or so reporters (800 today), and you parked your car beside it, I had not written golf properly until the morning ‘Jock’ Robertson offered me the job (on the Evening News), whisked me immediately in his car to Prestonfield Golf Club in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat, introduced me to Jimmy Kean, secretary of the Edinburgh and East of Scotland Alliance, and left, requesting 150 words at 12:30! It was the start that would end up giving me a worldwide career.”
From 150 words, Renton ended up broadcasting to 80 million homes through his work with the Golf Channel.
(Photo – Thank you to David Cannon)
Although distinguished in the world of golf, Renton never let his reputation get to his head. He was humble enough to admit he didn’t get everything perfect, such as this anecdote from Forgive Us Our Press Passes:
“When working with Peter Oosterhuis, he remarked in commentary that the Japanese golfer we were discussing practised even harder than Bernhard Langer or Vijay Singh, hitting 1,000 balls in the morning, 500 in the afternoon and a further 500 in the evening. ‘That,’ I said innocently, ‘is a lot of balls.’ We had to stop the recording and then had several false starts because everyone kept bursting into laughter at that point even though I’d changed the words.”
He closes that Forgive Us Our Press Passes article with the words:
“I will wake up, but until I do, I can only reflect that my last 40 years involvement with golf has been, to use a word regularly used by Peter Alliss, television’s doyen of commentators, just ‘magical.’”
It has been for us too, Renton.
Renton joins media legends Goran Zachrisson, Ben Wright, Peter Alliss and Jock MacVicar, who all went to that great press tent in the sky this year. I hope they enjoy many dinners together, meals Renton will start with “Some folk hae meat…”
Thanks for everything you did to help me and others get started in golf, Renton. RIP.
Click on: https://www.alistairtaitgolf.com/post/the-magical-life-of-renton-laidlaw
Jim Black
THERE is no need whatsoever for me to reflect on Renton’s career and his very many achievements and successes. Those of us who had the privilege of knowing this very fine man are well aware of his standing and status in the sport and his humanity.
Renton was a font of knowledge on golf, a wordsmith and an accomplished broadcaster. More than that he was also a cherished friend who imbued you with a feel-good factor and his passing has left a huge void in the lives of many of us.
The esteem in which he was held has been amply demonstrated through the words of so many, with Andrew Coltart capturing who Renton was in just a few words that said it all, really.
“He was a wonderful man who had time for everyone,” said Andrew. “He was one of a kind with a wonderful story-telling voice that always captivated us.”
My fondest memories of Renton will always be sitting with him in the R&A clubhouse being regaled by tales of his wonderfully full life prior to being given lunch.
Knowing how much I revelled in the atmosphere and history of the Big Room – one of the most iconic settings in the sport with its lockers and some of the finest works of golfing art in the world – he would allow himself a chuckle whenever we spoke on the telephone about fixing up a lunch date and he received the standard reply: “The R&A sounds good to me.”
It had been our intention to meet for lunch during the recent Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, but, regrettably Renton’s health issues and the impact of Covid denied us a final few hours together.
But I will never forget an informal get-together with other members of the golfing media at his home during the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship several years ago when we were royally entertained by Renton and his sister.
Time restrictions curtailed the length of our visit but the few hours we spent in his company and the splendid spread prepared by the lovely and caring Jennifer ensured that it was the highlight of the week – easily surpassing events at the Old Course.
My regret is that I didn’t really know Renton for as long as I would have liked to. It was only in more recent years that we developed a friendship of which I was both proud and grateful.
As much as I am not a fan of the word nice, that’s exactly what Renton was, a genuinely nice human being who was the epitome of a true gentleman in every sense.
As others have said, Renton was a one-off, a lovely and caring man who will be sadly missed.
Philippe Herman
A staunch Scot, Renton Laidlaw, an exceptional connoisseur and presenter of golf, has left the fairways of this world. He was a solid pillar on which golf, European in particular, has given itself a fourth dimension, not the most conspicuous, but very effective. Become a “junior reporter” in 1957, passed by “the Edinburgh Evening News”, he later entered the audio-visual industry, becoming the voice that the British expected on radio (BBC) and TV (Sky Channel, ex BSB), to describe to them, among other things, the Masters quarantine-twice, with all his knowledge and his humor, to the extent of a Peter Aliss, the sympathy and more.
Much listened to behind the scenes of golf directorships, without the slightest compromise, he joined the Association of Golf Writers in 1963, a very closed professional group (today, much less) of which he became the soul and the main animator. until 2015.
Throughout this moment of life, covering 58 “British” Opens among his 165 majors, he set the tone so that the R&A, USGA, PGA Tour and other locomotives of world golf respect the media and make it easier for them, contributing in part to the repeated success of the Ryder Cups.
A good golfer with his index 12, Renton, rather short and round-jovial, has known the greatest he would have touched if the “you” existed in his language, from Seve Ballesteros on 18 holes, Arnie Palmer or Jack Nicklaus giving another prize to this sacred fellow, member of the USGA and the R&A, of which he produced for a long time the “Golfer’s Handbook”, the bible of any dedicated journalist.
Renton Laidlaw was 82 years old, lived near St Andrews and was hospitalized on October 11 with the Covid-19 virus without it being the cause of his death. Soon after he joined his friends Seve and Arnie last night. With such a mind, eternity will seem shorter
“I’ve been very lucky in that I’ve been able to work in newspapers, write books, in television, and in radio. To be able to work in all these media is quite something, but I’ve been able to somehow scratch my way through and do them all which makes me, I suppose, a wee-bit unusual. I was always delighted with my work with the Golf Channel in America, because what we were doing on there was bringing to the Americans knowledge of the European players who they really didn’t know all that well and spreading the European golf message to that market “. Renton Laidlaw
Dave Edwards
Although I only had the pleasure of meeting the great man only fleetingly on two occasions, I did of course grow up with his marvellous voice, both on radio and the television, and without he was a master craftsman in both disciplines.
I have the great honour of being the first recipient of the magnificent Renton Laidlaw Quaich, something I was extremely proud of, even more so now in light of his passing. RIP Renton!
Mike Aitken
Perhaps only Sean Connery over the past half century or so was blessed with a Scottish burr as recognisable as Renton Laidlaw’s. Like 007, he came from Edinburgh and was as well kent in America and around the world as he was at home thanks to a honeyed voice that embraced golf with an enduring Scottish accent.
For those of us fortunate enough to hear Renton’s dulcet tones face to face over lunch rather than on the radio or TV, the experience was as mesmerising as meeting any star of stage and screen. A brilliant raconteur with a pawky sense of humour only slightly at odds with his reputation as one of the kindest souls you could ever hope to meet, Renton was as close to being a renaissance man of golf media as anyone I ever met.
Photograph with many thanks – Dave Cannon/Getty)
Journalist, TV commentator, radio broadcaster, author and public speaker, he was so good at all of them you would have been breathless with admiration had another of his gifts not been the consummate skill with which he put others at ease.
Apart from the many years I sat directly behind Renton in the Augusta press building at The Masters, it wasn’t until I left The Scotsman and worked as his assistant on the R&A Golfer’s Handbook that our acquaintance blossomed into friendship. When the lifespan of the book came to an end, we would meet up for regular lunches in the R&A clubhouse on his home patch in St Andrews or the New Club on mine in Edinburgh. In between we would speak on the phone about the latest golfing gossip, the fluctuating fortunes of our football teams, Hearts and Hibs, and the favourite topic of all older folk, the way we were.
His health had been declining for some time – when I asked him at least 20 years ago about his favourite airline experience, he replied, ‘First, disabled’ – but his passing still came as a shock.
There was an air of permanence about Renton which lured you into believing he would somehow always be around. And I suppose, in a sense, he will. Once you heard his voice, it was just like putting the needle on the groove of a never to be forgotten record.
Derek Lawrenson (Past AGW Chairman)
I can still remember walking into my first European Tour media tent long ago in my early twenties, knowing no-one and frankly terrified at the thought of rubbing shoulders with a gathering of journalists, many of whom were household names.
One man rose instantly from his chair and made his way over to greet me. ‘You must be Dai Davies’s replacement at the Birmingham Post,’ he said. ‘I’m Renton Laidlaw and let me introduce you to everyone. Will you join me and a couple of colleagues for dinner this evening?’
So it began, a journey of nearly 40 years where the most influential golf journalist of all still found the time to keep in touch, just as he did with everyone else. When I had run-ins with the tour and the R&A over the years, Renton would be there with encouragement. When I was in hospital with Covid-19 in January, despite his own health troubles far greater than mine, Renton was still there once more, ringing my wife regularly for updates.
‘I don’t want to disturb him,’ he said on one occasion, when I had left hospital but was barely able to speak. ‘Renton, if there’s one person he will want to try and talk to, it’s you,’ she replied. She was right about that
As I’m sure you’re aware, Renton passed away last week, at the age of 82. As all the many splendid tributes have pointed out, he was a titan of broadcasting, a master of newspaper deadlines, and a man who all but kept the Association of Golf Writers together for a decade and more.
Above all that, though, he was the greatest of us in one other regard as well, the most important one of all. He was, quite simply, the nicest, kindest journalist I’ve met in 40 years.
Colin Farquharson
It was with great sadness that I learned of Renton’s passing. Along with Jock McVicar, he was a long-standing companion and friend in the Press Tent and to lose them both this year has been a double blow.
I first met Renton in 1968 when he ventured north and joined Grampian TV. We covered various Open Championships together over the years.Full of stories and always in good humour, Renton was excellent company and arguably one of the finest golf journalists and broadcasters that Scotland has produced. Certainly, the finest voice.
Although our writing paths diverged, we kept in touch and, like Jock, Renton sent a Christmas card every year without fail and always of the Old Course.
The mantlepiece will be decidedly empty this year!
Bryan Potter
I only met Renton briefly when he gave me a most warm and sincere welcome to the AGW back when he was secretary. I was so impressed with his style and warmth.
My condolences to his family and love ones.
John Hopkins (Past AGW Chairman)
Funny isn’t it how some of golf’s greatest are known by their first names: Seve, Tiger, Jack and now Renton. Renton was everyone’s friend. Some of the most enjoyable times I had in golf were in his company around a lunch or dinner table. With a chuckle in his voice and a smile forming on his face, Renton was born to talk whether on radio or television. I doubt that in golf I will ever meet another like him in golf and I doubt I will ever hear another like him. Nothing more needs to be said.
Andy Farrell (Past AGW Secretary)
Renton Laidlaw, “of the Evening Standard” as he was always introduced, was part of the soundtrack of my youth. Portable radio always clamped to an ear tuned to sport. There was not so much of it in those days. Golf became a prominent part of the Sunday afternoon offering in the second half of the 1980s but before then Sport on Two, for a while presented by Renton, was only on Saturdays. On a summer Sunday you had to wait until an extended sports desk at 7pm — Renton always seemed to feature prominently from some exotic European destination and Faldo always seemed to have won — this must have been 1983 — or else Lyle, or Seve or Langer, all brought vividly to life with that distinctive voice of life and warmth. No one was more brilliant at adding captions to television pictures than Peter Alliss, but Renton, like all the radio greats, implanted pictures directly into the mind. Later, what joy to hear the behind-the-scenes tales from the man himself, as when he received an emergency phone call from the BBC one December that the tape of Faldo winning the Masters had been lost and they needed something for the end-of-year review. Renton was in a hotel room in Melbourne in the middle of the night. The scene — second playoff hole, 11th green, the putt — he described from memory but it took several takes to work himself up to the required fever pitch to do the moment justice.
Renton’s service to the AGW, especially the long dedicated tireless years as secretary, later as chairman and president, can only be described as colossal. The longer I served, the greater my admiration and appreciation grew exponentially. Think back 30 years. Press centres, when I first entered them, were crammed with daily and Sunday correspondents from all the nationals, the Scots and Irish in full force, regionals and freelancers in abundance, radio too. It did not happen by itself. Different times, of course, and it was all about the exploits of Seve et al. But in the boom time for European golf was a sport ever better served in its liaison between media and administrators? There were accolades aplenty, but cannot help thinking the World Golf Hall of Fame, via its lifetime contribution category, missed a trick.Anyway, this was just meant to be a quick note concurring with the many who will be eternally grateful for his support and encouragement. And to mention, since it always beings a smile, that to hear Ernie Els say Renton’s name — the rolled “r”, the Afrikaner tones softened by so much love and affection — is truly a thing of beauty.
Bill Elliott (Past AGW Chairman)
Few of you will have any problem remembering who and what Renton Laidlaw was. Renton’s death on October 12 added his name to the ever lengthening list of Covid victims and though he had been in poor health for some time his passing still came as a shock.
A brilliant broadcaster and a gifted journalist, his warm Scottish tones introduced many, many thousands of listeners and viewers to the old game. As a former Treasurer, Chairman and President of the Association of Golf Writers his influence on the world of golf stretched across several decades and almost as many continents via his books and his work for newspapers, magazines, BBC radio and Golf Channel TV.
Renton was never happier than when on his way to a big tournament, never more comfortable than when sitting at a decent supper table with players and journalists talking about this and that but always returning to golf.
He helped many people along the way, always finding time for the new reporter or the young golfer. The day his death was announced my younger son James rang me to say how sorry he was to hear the news.
When James was a boy I used to take him to the occasional tournament during school holidays. He always behaved himself while in the Media Centre as I worked but, even so, not everyone made him welcome. “ Renton always found time to seek me out for a chat. He was really nice and friendly and fun and made me feel comfortable. I still appreciate that, “ James said.
Others will make more of Renton’s talent and his crazed enthusiasm for work but, for me, while that is impressive, James’ reflection will do as a testimony to a genuinely nice bloke who devoted so much of his life to the promotion of golf and golfers. We won’t see his like again. Rest in peace old friend.
Brian Creighton
I was immensely saddened by the deaths of both Renton and Dave. While I cannot recall any specific events involving either of them – my memory is not what it used to be – I held both in great affection after knowing them for so many years. They were both extremely kind gentlemen and the association is poorer for their loss. Many a kind word has been written by association members since the two passed away, and I can only say I agree with all the fine words amd remininscences that have been uttered. Renton and Dave were both stalwarts, in their different ways, of the association. It is a big and extremely sad loss to lose them both within such a short period of time.
GOLFERS/ADMINISTRATORS/MEDIA OFFICIALS
Martin Slumbers (CEO R & A)
We are all deeply saddened to hear of Renton’s passing and our thoughts are with his family and many friends at this sad time. Renton’s knowledge, insight, wit and wonderfully distinctive voice made him an immensely popular figure in golf and sport in general. He was admired by so many of us who grew up listening to his commentary or reading his reports from The Open and the other major championships.
Renton made a remarkable contribution to golf over a long and successful career. He will be greatly missed by players and fans throughout the world and by his many friends in The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews.
Julius Mason (Senior Director, Public Awareness & External Relations, PGA of America)
Such sad news. I will never forget Renton and how he always made me feel important. One of the most beautiful human beings I have ever come across.
Mike Woodcock (Director, Corporate Communications, R & A)
It’s very sad to see the passing of another of golf’s great media personalities. Renton’s wonderful commentary on some of golf’s greatest moments will stay with us forever.
Jack Nicklaus (18-time Majors winner & AGW Vice-President)
Through the years, I have had my favourite story-tellers in the game of golf – from Bernard Darwin to Herbert Warren Wind to some of today’s writers. But there are also storytellers in this game whose voices stick with you as much as their own words. Renton Laidlaw was such a teller of golf’s stories. He was a truly important voice in our game’s history, and we will miss him greatly! Just recently, I was honored when Renton asked me to contribute to his book, ‘Memories Too Good to Forget,” and with over 60 years in the game, Renton had countless amusing stories and anecdotes.
To reflect the depth of our relationship, Renton covered my first Open Championship in 1962 and my last in 2005. Renton was a true professional, who approached his work with pleasantness and genuine kindness. We lost Renton too soon, too quickly, but thanks to him we have countless memories too good for any of us to forget. Our prayers and our heart go out to his family, his many friends, and his countless fans. – Jack
Lali Stander (Sunshine Tour)
Sad News. What a character and what a loss for golf.
Karen Harding (Past Secretary, Australian Golf Media Association)
Sincere condolences to you on the passing of your good friend, Renton. Good friends are very precious and hard to replace, if not impossible. Your tribute to him was just lovely and I hope your happy and warm memories of your friendship with this remarkable man will remain with you always and bring a smile back to your heart.
Brendan Moloney (Past President, Australian Golf Media Association)
It was so sad to hear about Renton. I sent this message to his sister Jennifer and got a nice reply. When the dust settles, I hope our guys will do something to remember him. When Dai Davies died in 2008, we had a barbecue at Royal Park GC and everyone including 1946 club champion Peter Thomson brought along a bottle of red. I think Renton would appreciate something like that.
Helen Heady (Heady Public Relations)
Many thanks for sharing all these tributes of Renton – what a special man he was. I adored him x
Bruce Young (Bruce Young Media)
Like so many others I was saddened the hear the news of Renton’s passing and put this on my Facebook page yesterday. If you could put it on your site’s page that would be much appreciated
I first met Renton while caddying as a youngster in Europe in the mid-1970’s but, later, had the good fortune to work with him in commentary on the European Tour’s then world feed in Australiasian events at the 2006 Australian Masters, the 2006 New Zealand Open and the Johnnie Walker Classic in Perth in the late 00’s.
Renton was fabulous to work with and a real gentleman and such a pro. He might not have been a golfer as such but his knowledge and delivery was impeccable and I likened him to a duck on water as all good hosts typically are. They keep things appearing very smooth on the surface when, at times, things are far from that underneath. He was brilliant in the broadcaster role.
He could be quite demanding of his producers at times but he wanted things done properly and was not afraid to say so.
He was very supportive of me doing a gig like that in the commentary box to a worldwide audience and, for that, I will be forever grateful.
His delightful Scottish accent has been sorely missed over recent years on the European Tour’s coverage but he has been struggling with health issues for quite some time and did his best to stay involved for as long as he could.
Thank you Renton Laidlaw for being such a great part of the European Tour’s growth and exposure over the last 50 years and thank you for taking this greenhorn under your wing when the opportunity arose.
Kathy Shearer (Australian Media)
I have been in constant touch with Jennifer, it is a dreadful loss to us all. Renton was my dearest friend for 50 years. He was so special.
Beth Ann Nichols (President, Golf Writers Association)
I didn’t know Renton personally but have been moved by all the wonderful tributes. His legendary work speaks for itself, but I’ve been most struck by the way he made people feel. His kindness.
A good reminder of what’s important. I’m so sorry for your loss. I know how special he was to your association and membership.
WEBSITE TRIBUTES
The Times (Rick Broadbent)
Scottish Daily Mail (Dougie Donnelly)
The Courier Newspaper (Steve Scott)
Golf Australia Magazine
Sports Illustrated (Morning Read)
https://www.si.com/golf/news/golf-world-pays-tribute-to-renton-laidlaw
Herald Scotland (AGWs Nick Rodger)
The Golf Channel
https://www.golfchannel.com/news/voice-european-tour-renton-laidlaw-dies-age-82
BBC Sport
https://www.bbc.com/sport/golf/58896473
BBC Sport Scotland
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p09yw20t
Global Golf Post (Lewine Mair)
https://read.nxtbook.com/global_golf_post/international/20211018/mair_col.html
Press and Journal
https://pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/past-times/3534360/from-disobedient-dogs-to-lifeboat-disasters-roving-reporter-renton-laidlaws-grampian-tv-career/?utm_source=twitter… via @pressjournal
Evening Standard
SKY Sports
European Tour (Tribute comments from AGW’s Scott Crockett)
https://www.europeantour.com/european-tour/news/articles/detail/renton-laidlaw/
European Tour (Video tribute, 2018 European Ryder Cup captain, Thomas Bjorn plus video of Renton)
https://www.europeantour.com/european-tour/news/video/a-tribute-to-renton-laidlaw-1939-2021/
R and A
https://www.randa.org/en/news/2021/10/tributes-paid-to-renton-laidlaw
The Scotsman (Martin Dempster piece with Bernard Gallacher tribute)
The Scotsman (Tributes to Renton Laidlaw)
https://www.scotsman.com/sport/golf/legendary-golf-broadcaster-renton-laidlaw-dies-aged-82-3416939
BBC Sportsounds Interview with Renton
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p09yw20t
STV News
Yahoo Sports
https://sports.yahoo.com/voice-european-tour-renton-laidlaw-190856654.html
Renton awarded the 2018 Confederation of Professional Golf Special Recognition Award
Irish Golfer Magazine
Golf Digest (John Huggan)
https://www.golfdigest.com/story/renton-laidlaw-tribute-european-tour-broadcaster-dies-age-82
Golf Business News
https://golfbusinessnews.com/news/people/golf-mourns-the-passing-of-renton-laidlaw/
Bunkered Magazine
https://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/tributes-paid-to-iconic-golf-broadcaster-renton-laidlaw
Golf Monthly
Daily Mail
https://www.pressreader.com/uk/daily-mail/20211019/282991108096969
Insider Voice
Golf Week.com (Nick Rodger)
https://golfweek.usatoday.com/2021/10/13/scottish-golf-broadcaster-renton-laidlaw-dies-at-82/
Golf Australia
https://www.golf.org.au/vale-renton-laidlaw/
Geoff Shackleford
https://www.geoffshackelford.com/homepage/2021/10/12/rip-renton-laidlaw
Spursfancave.com
Golf Grinder.com
http://www.golfgrinder.com/news/golfindustry/legendary-golf-journalist-renton-laidlaw-dies-at-82/
Good World News.com
News Break.com
https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2401763702396/voice-of-european-tour-renton-laidlaw-dies-at-age-82
Mini Feed News.com
Newsfounded.com
https://newsfounded.com/ethiopia/golf-world-pays-tribut-to-renton-laidlaw/
SOCIAL MEDIA TRIBUTES (Listed in relative order of posting)
Association of Golf Writers (AGW) @AGWgolfwriters RENTON LAIDLAW … Heart-breaking news to learn of Renton’s passing. Renton, aged 82, joined the Association in 1963. He proudly served as Secretary (1978/1995), Chairman (1995/1998) & President (2005/2015) RIP Renton
(This tweet attacting 170,000 ‘impressions’ as at 20th October, 2021)
The R&A @RandA We are deeply saddened to hear of Renton Laidlaw’s passing. With his distinctive Scottish voice, Laidlaw was one of golf’s most respected broadcasters and journalists, and provided great service and dedication to the sport. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.
(This tweet attracting 875,545 ‘impression’s as at 28th October, 2021)
David Begg @dadbegg
RIP Renton
I met Renton Laidlaw when I was 7. He was 22 and came to my parents house every Friday for tea ahead of his column for the Edinburgh Evening News. He was my mentor at the start of my TV career. A gifted broadcaster, an exceptional man in every way. Many hearts are sore tonight.
I have many DVDS of past Ryder Cups where Renton was part of the commentary team. Such an entertaining, inciteful man, and wonderful company to relive those incredible memories of my youth. His voice shall live on with me.
Ah no….what a loss. His voice and skill were part of a generation. RIP.
Timothy Jonssen Finne @HighlandFox
Wow such sad news, another fantastic broadcaster gone RIP
Renton Laidlaw and Paddy Moloney gone on the same day. RIP both. A very sad day for many of a certain age and disposition.
Hugh Dan MacLennan @HughDan1956
The commentary box in the sky is getting busy. Another icon gone. Sad news.
Very sad to learn of Renton’s passing; a true gentleman who was a delight to meet
Well said Ewen. He was so kind to me over the years & always took the time to chat, give sage advice and provide quiet encouragement. RIP Mr Laidlaw
A true gentleman who always had a kind word to say and an encouraging story to tell. I recall the flight to Turkey with him a few years back full of stories and was so proud of all his media colleagues. RIP Renton.
Very sad to hear of the passing of Renton Laidlaw a lovely man RIP Renton.
One of the great voices of the airwaves. RIP.
Lorne Rubenstein @lornerubenstein
Renton Laidlaw has died, and anybody who knew him, read him, or listened to him must feel sad. He was generous and encouraging to me, and many years ago invited me for a game at Sunningdale Old. What a day. We then chatted for hours in his nearby flat. Renton defined kindness.
Ian J Mooney @ianjmooney
Replying to @CrailGolf and @AGWgolfwriters A man who should be remembered as one of the great voices of golf. Alongside Longhurst and Alliss #RIP
Martin Dempster @DempsterMartin
I have been fortunate to come across some fine people through golf but one gem of a human being always stood out above the rest. That’s because Renton Laidlaw was a class act in everything he did and the golf world has lost a giant with his passing. RIP
Dougie Donnelly @dougiedonnelly
So terribly sad to hear tonight that a dear friend and colleague has gone. Renton Laidlaw was an outstanding writer and broadcaster, held in genuine affection by everyone he worked with, and a great support to me and to so many others over the years. He will be very sadly missed.
Just woke up to the news that Renton Laidlaw has passed away. Another great #golf writer, and true gentleman, goes to that great press tent in the sky. Renton was very good to me when I began my career. Like many other golf writers, I shall miss him dearly. RIP Renton
Bradley S. Klein @BradleySKlein
An icon of the golf commentariat and an inspiration to a whole generation of print media writers and readers.
I was today year’s old when I learned he was a writer! Saturday Morning Euro Tour golf has lost its voice.
Sir Nick Faldo@NickFaldo Oh no thats very sad news. Renton documented my whole career from the 75 English Amateur on! He was the most trusted and fair, in the heat of finishing a bad round if i said something daft he’d say maybe you’d like to say that a different way! A very rare quality! RIP
Matthew Harris GOLF@MattHarrisPIXs That rarity in life – a true one off: Renton Laidlaw RIP – outstanding broadcaster, writer & that http://voice.You will be sorely missed my fri
So sorry to hear that the great Renton Laidlaw has passed away. The voice of golf on BBC radio for so many years; a mentor, a colossus of the golfing media, a fine presenter of the old Sport on Two back in the day and above all an absolute gentleman, loved by all.
Steve Scott @C_SScott
A giant of a journalist and broadcaster over four decades, a mentor and friend to so many, and by some distance the kindest man I met in my years in this trade. It’s been a tough year for our legends. RIP Renton.
Crail Golfing Society @CrailGolf
Terribly sad news to learn of the passing of legendary Scottish-born golf writer, BBC radio & TV commentator Renton Laidlaw Renton, aged 82, passed away overnight & with @CrailGolf set to host next April members of the @AGWgolfwriters trophy named in Renton’s honour
So sorry to hear of Renton’s passing. My early recollection of him writing and following RDBMShade in the sixties. Our greatest recollection was him accompanying us to the Eisenhower In Buenos Aires. After we finished, he escorted Charlie Green and I on trip to Iguazu Falls & Rio.
Fatiha/Bernie @TourMiss
RENTON LAIDLAW Sad to learn of the passing of a dear friend & colleague. First met Renton on one of his many @GolfAust visits & so was proud in 2014 to follow in his footsteps when elected Secretary @AGWgolfwriters Will miss his company & his Christmas cards. Bernie
Farewell to another great. The game has lost some wonderful gentlemen this year.
A voice made for Golf on the radio. RIP.
A wonderfully emotive piece on the great man penned by the irrepressable Nick Rodger! @NickRodger1
A superb journalist whose commentary on golf ,be it written or vocally , was rarely matched , RIP
Golf Australia @GolfAust
Vale Renton Laidlaw, one of golf’s finest commentators and journalists. Australia was like Renton’s second home and he became a much-loved figure on telecasts of our biggest golf tournaments with his beautiful speaking voice and his knowledge of the game.
On behalf of @GJ_AC heartfelt condolences to Renton’s family, friends, broadcast colleagues, @EuropeanTour and to all members of @AGWgolfwriters A true loss of grace and greatness. #RIPRenton
Another of the good guys who’s no longer with us, A love tribute to Renton from @dougiedonnelly on @BBCRadioScot ‘s Lunchtime News after 1.10 pm
Kirsty Gallacher @TheRealKirstyG
A very sad day today for my family and the global golf family with the sudden passing of our dear Renton Laidlaw. I am actually at a loss with this news. One of the greatest golf journalists & commentators of our time. Thank you Renton, we’ll miss you so much. Love you
Richard Kaufman @KaufmanRichard
So sad to wake up to the news about Renton Laidlaw. A wonderful voice in golf on tv and radio, a lovely man to know in person. He will be sorely missed.
Stephen Gallacher @stevieggolf
Just heard the very sad new that Renton Laidlaw has passed away. He was an absolute gentleman. The voice of golf RIP
Before @GolfChannel launched in the 90s golf in America was mostly an afternoon viewing experience. @EuropeanTour changed that, all those comfortable mornings with Renton Laidlaw as our tour guide. Wasn’t it just the most pleasant trip? @GolfChannel forever grateful for Renton.
Very sad news of the passing of Renton Laidlaw. Loved talking to him amazing Voice and so much knowledge lovely http://Man.RIP
Brilliant tribue to a great character sad news
As a young professional I met Renton. He was a wonderful curious man. Always asking questions about your golf and life. More importantly he taught us all so much about the history of golf and our tour. A great friend of the game has left us but he leaves wonderful memories behind
Very sad to wake up to the news of the passing of Renton Laidlaw. A wonderful man who had time for everyone. A wonderful story telling voice that always captivated us. Respected throughout the industry, one of a kind,we’ll all miss him.
Renton was so kind and warm to everyone. A lovely man with a lovely smile and immense talent… as recognised on both sides of the Atlantic.
Confederation of Professional Golf [CPG] @cpg_golf
We are saddened to hear about the passing of Renton Laidlaw, at the age of 82. The legendary golf broadcaster covered 165 majors including 58 Opens and 42 Masters, and was the recipient of the 2018 CPG Special Recognition Award. Our condolences go out to his family at this time.
Renton was a welcoming figure to those of us who had the privilege of gate-crashing golf’s biggest events. His knowledge was impeccable, freely shared, and delivered in that familiar, reassuring way of his. RIP
I spent many an early morning listening to the humour and outright command of the english language while commentating. also loved how he had interpersonal conversations with the on course commentators during the coverage thanks Renton #RIP
A tragedy I remember meeting him for the first time like it was yesterday
Replying to @DempsterMartin @ScotsmanSport and 3 others Great and fitting tribute Martin
Renton Laidlaw has passed away at the age of 82. Many longtime @GolfChannel viewers will remember him fondly as the voice of our @EuropeanTour coverage for many years, part of his incredible career as a sports broadcaster and journalist.
Replying to @AGWgolfwriters and @JimSpenceDundee Very sad news – he was such a real talent.
Garrett Johnston @JohnstonGarrett
Sad to hear of golf broadcaster/writer Renton Laidlaw’s passing. I sat next to him in 2014 @TheMasters during @henrikstenson’s presser. Henrik had the 75yo & this 29yo laughing with his answers & wit. Renton was a joy to talk w/afterwards. Rest In Peace Renton.
Lovely words Martin. Sorry you lost your friend. Renton was a special character in golf and sport. I loved listening to him growing up, a voice full of warmth and charm. RIP
The unmistakable voice of Renton Laidlaw narrated 58 Open Championships in a remarkable career. Read the full tribute from @RandA …http://bit.ly/TributeToRentonLaidlaw…
Very calm soothing and very knowledgeable golf commentator. R.I.P Renton
Replying to @TheOpen and @RandA Definitely my favorite on European Tour broadcasts. RIP
Replying to @RandA I had the pleasure of being in Renton’s company on many occasions in commentary and at dinner. My favorite of his many stories was of him in the office when news came through of the Munich air disaster. A true legend from a different age. RIP
Replying to @PaulLawriegolf Very sad to hear of the passing of Renton Laidlaw..lovely voice & knowledge of the game of Golf…RIP
Tony Jacklin CBE @jacklin_tony
One of my oldest friends in golf,a wonderful http://man.RIP.my friend
Mike Harris @MikeHarrisGolf
So sad to hear that Renton Laidlaw has died. An incredible journalist & broadcaster with a deep love for golf. But more than that he was a great guy. He took the time to encourage me in my career and know he did the same for many young writers. A huge loss for golf and golf media
Incredibly sad to hear the passing of Renton, wonderful man and great to our game. RIP
David AllisonCalvert @davidthegolfer
How very sad. A wonderful commentator. One of the great sporting “voices” of my lifetime. RIP special man.
Dave (TOX) Shellard @ToxShellard
He was an absolute delight to work with especially on the Asian Tour co-sanctioned events. I had the pleasure of mixing his dulcet tones for over ten years and he will be very sadly missed. My deepest condolences to his family
Replying to @PaulLawriegolf Lovely voice. For a long time THE voice of the European Tour on TV. RIP Renton.
Stuart Williams @PeoplePlanetPft
Replying to @lornerubenstein and @chambleebrandel A sad day, Renton knew his stuff and was a fixture on the Eruo Tour for a long time
Michael Schneider @jtmschneider
Replying to @lornerubenstein And what a commentator he was; He was the voice of the European tour and I loved listening to him on those early morning weekend broadcasts.
Replying to @lornerubenstein Great golf announcer. Seemed to be genuine.
Oh, wow so sorry to hear that. He w as a real blessing for golf.
Replying to @PaulLawriegolf Damn !!! Loved hearing him call golf from overseas… on whatever channel he was broadcast on here in the states…always classy ! And a great voice for golf…
Replying to @PaulLawriegolf The Scottish Voice of Golf !! R.I.P sir
Replying to @PaulLawriegolf That’s sad news indeed
TH @Thgolf
Replying to @PaulLawriegolf What a shame. He provided the soundtrack to many great golfing moments.
Replying to @RandA His “He borrowed too much” is best quip for the pro side putt miss to this day.
Replying to @RandA It didn’t happen often enough but Renton and Dennis Hutchinson on the same broadcast was the finest audio experience in golf!!
Replying to @RandA In the 90’s, Renton brought the EuroTour into my US home nearly every week. Aside from its stars, I knew very little of the Tour or its players. Renton helped change that with his knowledge and delivery. He helped turn me into a huge fan of the Tour. God Bless – RIP Mr Laidlaw
Heather McAllister @Bellweather666
Many happy memories of watching the European Tour and Renton’s commentary and observations. Will be sadly mised. RIP Mr. Laidlaw.
Replying to @RandA A great broadcast personality who understood when not to speak
Replying to @RandA Big reason I watched European Golf. My condolences.
The European Tour @EuropeanTour
A tribute to Renton Laidlaw: 1939 – 2021. In the thoughts of everyone at the European Tour … https://mobile.twitter.com/europeantour/status/1448702353654362116?lang=ar
Julie Matthews @JulieMpaintings
Replying to @EuropeanTour Such a lovely man, was a good and kind friend to me when I worked at IMG and I’m so sorry to hear he’s no longer with us. A true, old school, gentleman and such a distinctive voice. RIP Renton. Xxx
Lord russell stafford @russellnuman
Replying to @EuropeanTour Another loss to golf. Imagine the fun Renton and Peter aliss will be having now. Thanks Renton
Replying to @EuropeanTour A legend,that will surely be missed
Replying to @RandA Very sad news. Renton was part of the fabric of golf. A fine broadcaster and good man.
Legend
Replying to @RandA Rip great man of golf
Replying to @RandA A great loss to the sport. RIP
Replying to @RandA Always enjoyed listening to him!
Replying to @RandA And a true gentleman. Will be sadle missed.
Replying to @RandA A great sports voice.
Replying to @RandA and @chubby6665 His loquacious tone as smooth as Ben Crenshaw’s putt stroke. RIP.
Replying to @RandA BEST ever.
Replying to @RandA Was a great ambassador for European golf! Mad every broadcast interesting and enjoyable! RIP!
Replying to @RandA Very sad news. A great voice in golf.
Replying to @RandA He is one of those great golf broadcasters whose voice will be remembered forever. RIP.
Replying to @RandA Laidlaw made every golf broadcast into a bedtime story. Whether it was a backwater tour stop or the final day of the Ryder Cup – he brought you right into the action. The best voice in the game, bar none.
Replying to @RandA Voice of golf in Scotland for decades. RIP
Replying to @RandA Another great voice from my sporting life gone. He enhanced many a tournament.
Replying to@RandA and @Radiojottings I spent an entertaining hour with him in BBC Kensington House bar back in the late 70s. Due to a mixup we tested an unusual mixture of whisky and brandy that he christened ‘Briskey’.
James independence for Scotland @weesnowie
Replying to @RandA A great man and wonderful commentator
Replying to @RandA Renton was a lovely gentle soul..this is sad news indeed
Replying to @RandA A golfing great
Replying to @RandA and @LeslieAnneWade Condolences.
Replying to @RandA Sad to hear this news
Replying to @RandA A wonderful colleague and mentor and an even better friend.
Brian Painter @BrianPa54091737
Replying to @RandA When did he broadcast do not listen to radio much
Replying to @RandA One of golfs iconic voices lost to the fairways forever. What a shame.
1010 Common sense @1010Commonsense
Replying to @RandA and @Zigmanfreud Remember waking up early to listen to him at Loch Lomond tourney.
Replying to @IanJamesPoulter So sad the passing of Renton Laidlaw someone I had the privilege of working with, a soldier of truth who wielded the English Language like a sword and who I will never forget.
Replying to @IanJamesPoulter I once heard him describe Augustas’ greens by saying, It’s like putting a ball off the roof of your car and trying to get it to stop on the bonnet” … Another one was “ That ball landed like a butterfly with sore feet”….RIP Renton…
A lovely touch by @EuropeanTour and organisers of #EDAM2021 with the lowering of the Scottish saltire to half mast at Valderrama in memory of Renton Laidlaw who sadly passed away earlier in the week.
MEMORIAL SERVICE – 4th NOVEMBER, 2021 – Bernard Gallacher
To be honest I am still shocked by the speed of events. I’m sure everyone here feels the same.
I spoke with Renton on my return from the Ryder Cup and he was in good spirits. We discussed the match and then about The Hibees present woes.
He mentioned that Jennifer had been unwell, and, for a change he had been looking after her!!! The next message a few days later was from Jennifer saying Renton had been hospitalised with COVID and was very poorly……………… sadly he wasn’t able to beat this. At least Jennifer was able to be by his side as she has been for many years.
Scotland mourns the loss of one of its favourite sons. This is also a huge loss to the International Golfing Community.
Renton’s smiling disposition, which easily broke into his memorable hearty laugh, put everyone at ease immediately and it is understandable why he was such a successful interviewer, trusted by the top Professionals and highly respected by his peers.
I have known Renton all my golfing life. He was a guest at our wedding 48 years ago and we lived nearby after moving down South. Lesley and I have fond memories of Mr and Mrs Laidlaw and Jennifer visiting us on their frequent visits to Sunningdale. Renton was part of the family.
After Renton moved back to Scotland it was always a highlight when he appeared at our door for a cuppa and catch up. It was also a bonus to see Jennifer with him.
Our friendship started when Renton worked for the Edinburgh Evening News known to locals as the Pink! As the golf reporter he started to follow my progress in the local competitions from when I was 15 years old. He then became a broadcaster on Radio followed by BBC Scotland News.
There was no stopping Renton. He became golf correspondent at the London Evening Standard, following in the footsteps of his great friend Mark Wilson, then quickly breaking into mainstream TV where, as we all know he excelled. A workaholic he was constantly on the move. Australia, the Far East, America and of course Europe.
Despite a heavy work load he still had time to write my book! ‘Captain at Kiawah’ after the 1991 Ryder Cup. He also helped me with articles I was occasionally asked to write.
He was a confidante and mentor to me, but certainly not exclusive to me, as Renton would help anyone who sought his savvy advice. He was certainly blessed with a strong dose of common sense!
I could go on……………..!
Suffice to say our thoughts and prayers today go out to Jennifer, his beloved sister, who has been at his side not only throughout this dreadful pandemic but also over the years nursing him back to health on several occasions.
Martin Dempster wrote in the Scotsman on the 13th October ………… ‘Renton Laidlaw was the finest human being I have ever met!’
Rest in Peace, Renton
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