Simon Hobday, one of the real characters of South African golf, passed away overnight at the age of 76 after a long battle with cancer.
Hobday was born in Mafikeng, but also spent time in Zambia (whom he represented at the 1966 Eisenhower Trophy) and Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe).
He won six times on the Sunshine Tour, including the 1971 SA Open, as well as the 1976 German Open and the 1979 Madrid Open on the European Tour.
His finest moment arrived as a senior when he won the 1994 US Senior Open. In all he claimed five titles between 1993 and 1995 on the Champions Tour.
“A Great Friend and Fellow Professional Hobbers your life and Friends in golf will remember your passion Laughter and presence forever.” Selwyn Nathan, CEO of the Sunshine Tour.
“Simon Hobday, a true legend of the game, has left us. One of the greatest characters golf has known who gave us so many laughs. RIP Hobbers.” Tony Johnstone.
“Very sad news on the passing of Simon Hobday. One of the best ball strikers and funniest men I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting…..” Trevor Immelman.
Hobday was also famous for his ‘walk on water’ incident at the 1985 Tournament of Champions event, when his ball skipped across the water on to the green on the 72nd hole.
Following that bit of outrageous luck, he took his shoes and socks off and waded across the pond to the green.
The last word goes to Dale Hayes, a close friend who spent a lot of time with him on the tours.
“Southern African Golf has lost a genuine legend with the passing of Simon Hobday.
“Simon passed away last night after a lengthy battle with cancer at the age of 76 – but don’t for one minute think that he didn’t give the disease a good tussle.
“Boy could he play – and he still loved to play. A few months ago, on his 76th birthday he shot a 65.
“David Leadbetter said recently that he used two golf swings as models – Simon Hobday’s and Ben Hogan’s.
“We loved Simon because he was fun loving, with a wonderful sense of humour. His antics will be spoken about for many years to come.
“Simon will be remembered by all his friends around the World as a great golfer and a man of integrity and great sportsmanship. He was a champion, both on and off the golf course and I was privileged to call him a friend.
“Enjoy your golf in heaven Simon. Arnie’s got a tee off time booked for you…”
