Famous Yellow Bellies

Tony Jacklin was born in Scunthorpe on 7th July, 1944. He came from a working class family. He trained as a steel worker, but it was evident from an early age that his real passion was for golf.

He played at lunchtimes and in the evening and was spotted at the golf club by a local solicitor who offered him a job. This was a fantastic offer as the company allowed him to take every afternoon off to practice his golf.

In 1962, Jacklin turned professional and seven years later won the Open - the first British player to win in 18 years. In itself this was a fantastic achievement, but the following year he won the US Open and became the first player to hold both titles at the same time.

First Brit to win the US open in over 70 years

Tony was the first Briton to win the US Open for over 70 years. He gained a place in the heart of the nation and also an O.B.E. for his efforts.

For many however, Jacklin's ultimate achievement was still to come. In 1985 he captained the team that brought the Ryder Cup back to Europe after a 28 year absence. Two years later he led the Europeans to victory again, this time on American soil - a first for the European team.

Tony now lives in the United States where he competes in the US Seniors Tour as well as spending time on some of his other hobbies which include hunting, fishing and marquetry.