BERNARD GALLACHER .... after-dinner speech at The Marcliffe Hotel
Picture by courtesy of Getty Images
FROM THE BBC SPORT WEBSITE
Former Ryder Cup captain Bernard Gallacher OBE is in a "critical" condition in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary after collapsing with a suspected heart attack last night.
He was making an after-dinner speech at a Future Energy sponsored evening for invited guests at The Marcliffe at Pitfodels Hotel, Aberdeen.
The 64-year-old former No 1 on the European Tour is being treated in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, NHS Grampian has confirmed. Nephew Stephen, who withdrew from the Wales Open during today's second round with a back injury, said: "I understand that he is critical but stable.
"My family is in disarray at the moment and it is obviously a worrying situation. We are all anxious."
Bernard Gallacher led Europe to Ryder Cup victory as non-playing captain in 1995
George O'Grady, chief executive of the European Tour, said: "We are in touch with Bernard's wife, Lesley, and the Gallacher family and, obviously, we join with everyone in wishing Bernard a speedy recovery."
Bathgate-born on February 9, 1949, Gallacher led Europe to victory over the United States in the Ryder Cup at Oak Hill 1995, having twice previously been losing captain.
He had also been a player in the competition eight times and won 10 tournaments on the European Tour and 30 worldwide.
Gallacher turned professional in 1967 and was attached to the Wentworth Club, Surrey. He was named the Sir Henry Cotton rookie of the year the following season.
In 1969, he became the youngest winner of the prestigious PGA Championship at 20 years and 97 days.
That record stood until earlier this year, when Italian Matteo Manassero triumphed at Wentworth aged 20 years and 37 days.
Gallacher won the Scottish professional chamionship four times over a span of 10 years -
1973 at King's Links, Aberedeen.
1974 at Drumpellier
1977 at Barnton, Edinburgh
1983 at Dalmahoy.
Published by scottishgolfview.com
