St Patrick Day Special: Irish Golfers’ Eyes Are Smiling

Harry Bradshaw: 1930-1990 Born Delgany, County Wicklow

Harry Bradshaw came from a golfing family. His father, Ned, and his brothers – Jimmie, Eddie, and Hughie – were also professional golfers. A ten time winner of the Irish PGA Championship between 1941 and 1957, Bradshaw first represented Ireland at the 1937 triangular tournament, though he is perhaps better remembered for the “Bottle Incident” at the 1949 Open Championship at Royal St. George’s. in which he lost a playoff to Bobby Locke.

During the second round of the championship, Bradshaw hit a drive which landed against a beer bottle in the fairway. Deciding against a drop, he felt it was a better choice to play the ball as is, not considering the risk/reward. It was a costly mistake in the end, resulting in a dropped shot and putting him into a tie with Bobby Locke. The decision ultimately cost him the win. 

Bradshaw played in the Ryder Cup in 1953, 1955 and 1957 and was twice Dunlop Masters champion, in 1953 and 1955.

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