The son of a Bangor travel agent, he is one of the game's true characters with a sparkling wit and a ready quip for any situation. Also trained as an opera singer before turning to golf, and has notched up five European Tour victories as well as captaining Ireland to victory in the 1990 Alfred Dunhill Cup and playing in The Ryder Cup in 1991, when he defeated Payne Stewart in the singles. Also commentates for American television, and is noted for his witty remarks about the game.