Brian Waites: Tributes paid to Ryder Cup hero

Tributes are pouring in for the former Ryder Cup player Brian Waites, who has died aged 85.

Best known as the last working PGA club professional to represent Europe at the Ryder Cup, Waites made his debut aged 43 in the 1983 defeat to the United States in Florida.

Waites won 41 times in his professional career, including twice on what has become the DP World Tour.

His death was confirmed by the PGA on social media.

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PGA chief executive Robert Maxfield said: “Brian’s passing really marks the end of an era. The role of a PGA Professional has changed so much since the time Brian turned pro when it was possible to serve a club and excel at the highest level.

“What’s more Brian achieved his success at an elite level in his later years, which is unlikely to happen now.

“Throughout those years as a club pro and then on tour, Brian never forgot his calling as a PGA Member – not only have we lost a throwback to a different time but also a very good friend of the Association. Our thoughts go out to Brian’s wife Veronica and all his family members and friends.”

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Ken Brown shared his own tribute to Waites on X.

“So sad to hear Brian Waites has left us,” Brown wrote.

“We were partners in the’83 Ryder Cup matches, you will go done in history as the last club pro to play, oh and to never miss a fairway. Sorry for missing that chip. Thank you being a supportive friend and the special memories.”

Middlesex Golf tweeted: Sad news, that 1983 Ryder Cup was really seismic and made Ryder Cup Europe believe. Brian Waites with Ken Brown was part of that game and should be celebrated. RIP Brian.

Golf fan @CambridgeGrey on X added:  “An absolute gentleman, understated & humble. Few realised their own golfing potential as well as he did. Was lucky enough to officiate at both his PGA Seniors Championships wins in the early 90’s, he was the consumate Professional. RIP Brian.”

Ben Parsons joined bunkered as a Content Producer in 2023 and is the man to come to for all of the latest news, across both the professional and amateur games. Formerly of The Mirror and Press Association, he is a member at Halifax Golf Club and is a long-suffering fan of both Manchester United and the Wales rugby team.