TOM Craddock, who died recently, has been in the sporting and golfing limelight for upwards of 50 years. His most recent recognition came in March 1998, when he received the Forte Posthouses Legends in Sports Award along with fellow amateur golfers Joe Carr and David Sheehan.
Indeed, a few weeks ago, a unique golfing get-together took place at St Margaret's with officials present from the four major sporting bodies in Ireland. These were the GUI, the GAA, the IRFU and the FAI.
The attendance included Mr Percy Shannon, President of the GUI; Mr Joe McDonough, President of the GAA; Mr Noel Murphy, President of the IRFU and Mr Pat Quigley, President of the FAI. The four presidents asked me to convey to Mrs Nola Craddock their prayers and good wishes for Tom. This demonstrated to me two things. First, that sport is part of the fabric of Irish life; and second, that Tom Craddock was recognised as a master weaver of that tapestry.
Tom, born in Malahide, represented Ireland in the Walker Cup on two occasions. He was honoured 67 times by his country in the Home Internationals and played in the European Team Championship on 22 occasions. He won all major awards in amateur golf. Tom's brothers, Paddy, Mick and Joe, are synonymous with golf in Ireland.
Tom was, up to his untimely passing, captain of St Margaret's, a course he co-designed with Pat Ruddy. Indeed, in the fields of golf design and golf architecture, Tom has left behind some great legacies: St Margaret's, Druid's Glen, Ballyliffen and many others. These courses are renowned for their toughness, character and sheer beauty.
But Tom will also be strongly remembered as an outstanding family man. His wife, Nola, was not only his number one fan but always acted as caddy for Tom. He was a deeply religious man. His greatest quality, in my view, was his humility. He constantly focused on the needs of other people. Humility is charity's first cousin. Mercifully, and from time to time, there are saints among and around us - good, godly people in every walk of life. Their humility shines when it catches the light. Tom is a beacon to all of us. Eternal life is now in Tom's sights.
Let me conclude on a joyful note: I have received a global message from beyond the universe, the stars and planets. It simply reads: "A major golf competition will take place in Heaven shortly. Tom Craddock has been selected to play and represent Ireland. The other members include Jimmy Bruen and Fred Daly." That sums it up well.
We salute the extraordinary talents that God gave to Tom. Deepest sympathy is extended to Nola, his son Chris, daughter-in-law Jean, grandchildren and to all the Craddocks.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.
T.G.