A look back at the legendary Ivor Robson who was known as the “Voice of the Open”

Ivor Robson was the official starter of The Open for 41 years, demonstrating his passion for the sport.

A look back at the legendary Ivor Robson who was known as the “Voice of the Open”

Ivor Robson at the Open championship (Image via the Open)

Ivor Robson, known as the “Voice of the Open,” died on October 17, 2023, at the age of 83. The ongoing Open Championship is the first since the great Robson died. For 41 years, Robson’s legendary voice echoed across the hallowed grounds of golf. He loved the British Open throughout his career because of the people.

His status as the Open’s official starter demonstrated his passion and affection for the sport. Robson’s career began in 1955. He started working as a caddy at Royal Birkdale Golf Club. His enthusiasm for golf prompted him to become the official starter of The Open in 1981, and he kept this position until his retirement in 2015. 

It has been a wonderful career. It's been a great honor. The way I have been treated by players, officials, sponsors… thank you all very much.
Ivor Robson said at the time of his retirement

It was in 2015 when he announced his retirement, working at The Open at St Andrews for the final time, before making his emotional final announcements when the curtain came down on the DP World Tour season in Dubai in November 2015.

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41 years of service to the Open: Ivor Robson

Ivor Robson, born in 1940 in England, began his career at The Open in 1975. He never missed a Championship or tee time since 1975. Robson was known for avoiding toilet breaks between matches and remained a beloved resident of Moffat in Dumfries and Galloway.

Ivor Robson with Rory Mcllroy at the Open championship
Ivor Robson with Rory McIlroy at the Open championship (Image via the Open)
We are deeply saddened to hear of Ivor’s passing. As official starter at The Open for over 40 years, his voice was instantly recognizable and synonymous with the Championship for players and millions of golf fans worldwide.
Martin Slumbers, CEO of The R&A, said after his death

The iconic 1st tee announcer, worked at the 144th Open in 2014, marking the beginning of a final Championship. He earned the admiration of the best players in the world by sending players off the 1st tee with famous words and a hearty grin.

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