The Ryder Cup: Dave Thomas played four times in the competitionFormer Ryder Cup star and renowned course designer Dave Thomas has died at the age of 79.Thomas turned professional in 1949 and ten years later made his Ryder Cup debut at Eldorado Country Club and he went on to play in three more Ryder Cups, the last in 1967 in Houston.
"We have played on courses designed by Dave and both as a player and an architect he leaves a lasting legacy."George O'Grady
On that occasion he partnered a young Tony Jacklin in all four fourballs and foursomes, earning two and a half points, before halving his match with Gene Littler in the singles.
After arthritis brought a premature end to his playing career, Thomas immersed himself in his other great passion of golf course designing.
Together with Peter Alliss, he designed The Belfry's famous Brabazon Course on which the Ryder Cup was played in 1985, 1989, 1993 and 2002.
European Tour chief executive George O'Grady, who presented Thomas with honorary life membership of the European Tour earlier this year, said: "Dave became a household name in the 1950s and 1960s when he helped to build the game in Britain and all over the world.
"He was a larger than life character, a truly great guy, and our condolences are with his partner Carol and Dave's sons Michael and Paul.
"Wherever the Tour has travelled, from Britain to the Continent to the rest of the world, we have played on courses designed by Dave and both as a player and an architect he leaves a lasting legacy to the game he truly loved."
Sandy Jones, chief executive of the Professional Golfers' Association, said: "I am very sad to learn of the passing of Dave Thomas. He was the proud captain of the PGA in our centenary year of 2001 and everyone would agree he was a legend of the professional game. He was always great company and a kind and gentle man.
"I feel a great privilege to have shared many enjoyable times in his company when he would enthrall me with great stories from his life in golf as we enjoyed a glass of red. He will be very sadly missed by me and all who knew him."
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