The popular Scot, who was one of golf media's greatest figures, has sadly passed away
Legendary Journalist Renton Laidlaw Dies – Golfing World Pays Tribute
Broadcaster and writer Renton Laidlaw has died at the age of 82, having tested positive for Covid-19 over the weekend before being admitted to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee.
The Scot was one of golf’s most recognisable voices and figures within the media, having been BBC Radio’s golf correspondent for 15 years.
Laidlaw also had spells covering the game for the Edinburgh Evening News and the London Evening Standard.
He also worked for the Golf Channel, giving Americans insights into the European Tour and its players, and worked in Australia as well.
In total, his career in journalism spanned 60+ years where he worked across print, radio and television.
He was the first non-American to cover the Masters at Augusta National, and throughout his career he covered an incredible 165 majors, including 58 Opens and 42 Masters.
He also served as secretary, chairman and president throughout his time as an Association of Golf Writers member, which he joined in 1963.
Laidlaw received many awards and recognitions throughout his esteemed career, including the Jack Nicklaus Memorial Award for golfing journalism.
Golfing World Pays Tribute to Renton Laidlaw:
We are deeply saddened to hear of Renton Laidlaw’s passing.
With his distinctive Scottish voice, Laidlaw was one of golf’s most respected broadcasters and journalists, and provided great service and dedication to the sport.
Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time. pic.twitter.com/f2G4qBMG0c
— The R&A (@RandA) October 12, 2021
I met Renton Laidlaw when I was 7. He was 22 and came to my parents house every Friday for tea ahead of his column for the Edinburgh Evening News. He was my mentor at the start of my TV career. A gifted broadcaster, an exceptional man in every way. Many hearts are sore tonight.
— Ewen Murray (@ewenmurray77) October 12, 2021
So sorry to hear that the great Renton Laidlaw has passed away. The voice of golf on BBC radio for so many years; a mentor, a colossus of the golfing media, a fine presenter of the old Sport on Two back in the day and above all an absolute gentleman, loved by all.
— Iain Carter (@iaincartergolf) October 13, 2021
So sad to hear that Renton Laidlaw has died. An incredible journalist & broadcaster with a deep love for golf. But more than that he was a great guy. He took the time to encourage me in my career and know he did the same for many young writers. A huge loss for golf and golf media
— Mike Harris (@MikeHarrisGolf) October 13, 2021
RENTON LAIDLAW …
Heart-breaking news to learn of Renton's passing.
Renton, aged 82, joined the Association in 1963. He proudly served as Secretary (1978/1995), Chairman (1995/1998) & President (2005/2015)
RIP Renton pic.twitter.com/EQLpJrDx5g
— Association of Golf Writers (AGW) (@AGWgolfwriters) October 13, 2021
Just woke up to the news that Renton Laidlaw has passed away. Another great #golf writer, and true gentleman, goes to that great press tent in the sky. Renton was very good to me when I began my career. Like many other golf writers, I shall miss him dearly. RIP Renton
— Alistair Tait (@GolfTait) October 13, 2021
Very sad to hear of the passing of Renton Laidlaw a lovely man RIP Renton.
— Paul Lawrie (@PaulLawriegolf) October 12, 2021
So sad to wake up to the news about Renton Laidlaw. A wonderful voice in golf on tv and radio, a lovely man to know in person. He will be sorely missed.
— Richard Kaufman (@KaufmanRichard) October 13, 2021
Just heard the very sad news that Renton Laidlaw has passed away he was an absolute gentleman the true voice of golf RIP
— Stephen Gallacher (@stevieggolf) October 13, 2021
Before @GolfChannel launched in the 90s golf in America was mostly an afternoon viewing experience. @EuropeanTour changed that, all those comfortable mornings with Renton Laidlaw as our tour guide. Wasn’t it just the most pleasant trip? @GolfChannel forever grateful for Renton. https://t.co/PkAZi3GG89
— Rich Lerner (@RichLernerGC) October 13, 2021
Very sad news of the passing of Renton Laidlaw. Loved talking to him amazing Voice and so much knowledge lovely https://t.co/el5End5irR
— Barry Lane (@BazLane) October 13, 2021
I have been fortunate to come across some fine people through golf but one gem of a human being always stood out above the rest. That's because Renton Laidlaw was a class act in everything he did and the golf world has lost a giant with his passing. RIP pic.twitter.com/JlmSR9yItL
— Martin Dempster (@DempsterMartin) October 13, 2021
So terribly sad to hear tonight that a dear friend and colleague has gone. Renton Laidlaw was an outstanding writer and broadcaster, held in genuine affection by everyone he worked with, and a great support to me and to so many others over the years. He will be very sadly missed.
— Dougie Donnelly (@dougiedonnelly) October 12, 2021
Renton Laidlaw has passed away at the age of 82. Many longtime @GolfChannel viewers will remember him fondly as the voice of our @EuropeanTour coverage for many years, part of his incredible career as a sports broadcaster and journalist.
— Tom Abbott (@TomAbbottGC) October 13, 2021
A very sad day today for my family and the global golf family with the sudden passing of our dear Renton Laidlaw. I am actually at a loss with this news. One of the greatest golf journalists & commentators of our time. Thank you Renton, we’ll miss you so much. Love you
— Kirsty Gallacher (@TheRealKirstyG) October 13, 2021
Very sad to wake up to the news of the passing of Renton Laidlaw. A wonderful man who had time for everyone. A wonderful story telling voice that always captivated us. Respected throughout the industry, one of a kind,we’ll all miss him.
— Andrew Coltart (@AndrewColtart) October 13, 2021
We are saddened to hear about the passing of Renton Laidlaw, at the age of 82. The legendary golf broadcaster covered 165 majors including 58 Opens and 42 Masters, and was the recipient of the 2018 CPG Special Recognition Award. Our condolences go out to his family at this time. pic.twitter.com/O8602mxRnu
— Confederation of Professional Golf [CPG] (@cpg_golf) October 13, 2021
Sad to hear of golf broadcaster/writer Renton Laidlaw’s passing.
I sat next to him in 2014 @TheMasters during @henrikstenson’s presser. Henrik had the 75yo & this 29yo laughing with his answers & wit.
Renton was a joy to talk w/afterwards. Rest In Peace Renton.
— Garrett Johnston (@JohnstonGarrett) October 13, 2021
Watch Laidlaw react to receiving the Special Recognition Award from the PGAs of Europe:
This article Legendary Journalist Renton Laidlaw Dies – Golfing World Pays Tribute appeared first on Golf Monthly.