Peter McEvoy, who made history in 1978 by becoming the first British amateur to make the cut at The Masters, has died at the age of 72.
His breakthrough performance at Augusta National, where he finished 53rd and announced himself on the global stage, was a landmark moment for British amateur golf. That same year, McEvoy went on to win a second consecutive Amateur Championship and finished as low amateur at The Open.
Born in London and raised near Turnberry on Scotland’s Ayrshire coast, McEvoy represented England throughout a remarkable amateur career. Despite a soft Scottish lilt, he became one of England’s most decorated and respected players, known not only for his achievements on the course but for his tireless work developing the game.
Trailblazer
“We have lost one of amateur golf’s most respected figures,” said R&A Chief Executive Mark Darbon.
“Peter was an outstanding amateur golfer and enjoyed an illustrious career. He also worked tirelessly to develop the game as an administrator and helped provide opportunities for aspiring players.
On behalf of The R&A and The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, I extend our deepest condolences to Peter’s family at this sad time.”
McEvoy’s amateur record is among the finest of his generation. Alongside his 1977 and 1978 Amateur Championship titles, he played in five Walker Cups, starring in GB&I’s 1989 win at Peachtree, and later captained the team to back-to-back victories in 1999 and 2001 — overseeing future stars including Luke Donald, Paul Casey, Graeme McDowell, and Nick Dougherty.
Though he was widely seen as capable of turning professional, McEvoy chose to remain in the amateur ranks, where he became an enduring influence. He later chaired the R&A selection committee and turned his hand to golf course design.
Awarded an OBE in 2003 for services to golf, McEvoy leaves a legacy as a pioneering player, inspirational leader, and lifelong champion of the amateur game.
