“Fought back from tremendous adversity” – Australian golfer Jack Newton dies aged 72 following ‘health complications’

“Fought back from tremendous adversity” – Australian golfer Jack Newton dies aged 72 following ‘health complications’

Jack Newton

Veteran Australian golfer Jack Newton has died at the age of 72 years following “health complications”, his family said on Saturday. Newton, who lost a play-off to Tom Watson at The Open in 1975, went on to finish joint second behind Seve Ballesteros at the 1980 Masters.

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His career came to an unfortunate end at 33 when the Cessnock native lost his right arm and eye after being hit by a spinning propeller as he prepared to board a plane. Following this, he went on to become a commentator and golf course designer.

Newton even clinched the British Matchplay in 1974, the Buick-Goodwrench Open in 1978 and the Australian Open in 1979. However, in recent years, he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

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Many members of the golf community reacted to the demise of Newton and extended their heartfelt condolences to his loved ones.

“Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation will ensure his legacy remains embedded within Australian golf”

Jack Newton
Jack Newton

“On behalf of our family, it is with great sadness that I announce that our courageous and loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and mate, Jack Newton OAM [Order of Australia] has passed away overnight due to health complications,” said a statement from Newton’s son, Clint.

“He fought back from tremendous adversity as only he could, and chose to selflessly invest his time, energy, and effort towards giving back to the community through his Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation, sports commentary, golf course design, and raising significant funds for several charities, most notably, diabetes.

“His passion for sport and contributing to future generations of golfers and the Australian community demonstrates the character of our father, beloved husband, proud brother, adoring grandfather, and maverick mate.”

It added: “His playing career and promotion of junior golf through the Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation will ensure his legacy forever remains embedded within Australian golf.“

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