Tony Jacklin

A record-breaking golfer and Hall of Famer who captained Europe to their first Ryder Cup victory in 1985 and won two individual major championships as a player, Tony Jacklin is one of the most renowned golf pros of all time. Tony would make his name as the most successful British golfer of his time, winning the 1969 Open Championship and the 1970 US Open, the latter becoming the first time a European player had won the tournament in its 84 year history. This would see him finish second in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award both seasons. It would also prompt significant media attention, culminating in a 1970 feature on TV hit, This Is Your Life.

He would receive an OBE in 1970 before being appointed a CBE in 1990. Tony would also enter the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2002. During 32 professional career victories, Tony would record six wins on the European Tour, as well as go close to a third major title in 1972. He would then go on to lead the European Ryder Cup team to extraordinary success as a non-playing captain. After the Ryder Cup switched format from the US vs Great Britain and Ireland to the US vs Europe in 1979, Europe still struggled to get a foothold, until Jacklin led the side close in 1983. He would then go onto to captain the team to glory in 1985 before following this up with a historic 15-13 victory on American soil in 1987. In one of the most compelling moments in sporting history, Jack Nicklaus putted before conceding a three and a half foot putt to Tony Jacklin in the 1969 Ryder Cup to tie the series.

The concession was celebrated in 2019 on the 50th anniversary at Wentworth, where the two came together to discuss the famous event. Back then it was controversial and shocked the world, but today stands as one of the most generous shows of sportsmanship ever recorded in sport. A leader and a top professional who captures the spirit of challenge, Tony has featured at the forefront of the after dinner speaking industry for many years. He has also been called upon to appear in the media, working on golf coverage for the likes of Talksport and Sky Sports. No matter whether he's on the golf course, participating in signing sessions, media activity, Q&As, meet and greets, masterclasses or speeches for those in awe of his achievements in the game, Tony is a down-to-earth, compelling and entertaining personality.

In recent years he has spoken at Branston Golf and Country Club, Farmfoods British Par 3, Bearsted Golf Club, Pennyhill Park Hotel in Ascot, The Royal Automobile Club. Tony has also worked on PR campaigns for OnlineGolf.co.uk and become an Ambassador for Scotch brand, Glenmorangie, automotive giant, Bentley, over 50s money experts, Age Partnership, as well as children's charity, Rainbows. Today, Tony Jacklin is one of the most in-demand after dinner golf speakers in the game. Stories from his playing days, as well as his off-field efforts make an evening with Tony Jacklin an unforgettable experience. Quick-witted and armed with hilarious anecdotes, he is able to captivate any room with tales from a five decade involvement in professional golf. Often featuring at golf days and senior tours across the world, as well as appearing at meet and greets, Tony is a pro's pro whose charm and talent is clear to see.