Brian Huggett dead at 87: Former Ryder Cup captain passes away as daughter pays heartbreaking tribute

FORMER Ryder Cup captain Brian Huggett has died at the age of 87.

He played in the famous golf tournament for Great Britain and Ireland six times, securing 12 points between 1963 and 1975 but never being on the winning side.

Times Newspapers Ltd

Former Ryder Cup captain Ryan Huggett has died aged 87[/caption]

Times Newspapers Ltd

He played six times in the tournament and won 16 European titles[/caption]

And the Welshman also served as non-playing captain in the 1977 edition, which was won by Team USA and the last Ryder Cup to not feature players from continental Europe.

Born in Porthcawl in 1936, he quickly fell in love with golf and turned professional aged just 15 in 1951.

Huggett went on to win an impressive 16 continental titles, two of which were secured on the European Tour.

And daughter Sandra paid tribute with an emotional statement on social media.

It read: “My darling Dad passed away at 1am this morning.

“A part of my heart went with him.

“It was such a blessing to be with him and hold his hand for those last few hours.

“Love you Dad, from your No 1 fan.”

Soon after the 1977 Ryder Cup, Huggett retired before returning to the world of Seniors in 1992.

He picked up 10 wins during his 15-year career on the Tour.

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Huggett enjoyed plenty of success on the Senior Tour too[/caption]

And in 2010 Huggett took up an ambassadorial role when the Ryder Cup wound its way to his native Wales.

The icon was later awarded an honorary life membership to the DP World Tour.

And tributes have been paid by fans and golf pros alike.

Former Masters champ Ian Woosnam said: “Sad to hear the passing on a Welsh legend Brian Huggett.”

DP World Tour’s CEO Guy Kinnigs said: “It’s hard to underestimate how important Brian was for us, to the Tour and to the Ryder Cup.

“He was an absolute gentlemen and a lovely man to deal with. He had an extraordinary career in his own right but obviously played six times in the Ryder Cup for Great Britain and Ireland and was also captain. 

“We honour our great heroes and what he did for the Ryder Cup. We will remember some of the messages he left and delivered by film for players in the team room in recent years with his wonderful voice.

“We all miss him terribly and it’s just an opportunity for all of us to pay credit to one of our true legends.”

Meanwhile, a fan declared: “Sad news indeed, a lovely man with a story for everyone.”

Another added: “A Welsh sporting hero and legend. Tenacious, humorous and humble.”