Golfers in mourning for Barrie
Heartfelt tributes have been paid to Barrie Douglas, who died at the age of 69 after taking ill in Spain.
One of the most popular figures across Scottish golf, his infectious enthusiasm and love of the sport inspired countless youngsters.
Barrie, a former Scotland boys’ international and in his heyday a multiple club champion at Craigie Hill and Blairgowrie, along with Murrayshall, died with his family by the bedside at a hospital in Cartagena.
He is survived by his wifeTrish and daughters Susan and Jennifer.
Barrie had been acting as Scottish Golf’s European boys’captain at the team championship in La Manga when he was rushed into hospital last month and diagnosed with a critical lung condition.
Barrie performed various selection and captaincy roles at boys’ level, playing a key close role in the career development of a host of young players over the years, including Blairgowrie’s Bradley Neil.
He was also a GB&I selector forThe R&A from 2009-16 and the flag flew at half-mast duringThe Boys’Amateur at Nairn following his death.
Blane Dodds, CEO of Scottish Golf, said:“I know that Barrie was highly respected and very popular.
“He invested so much in the game he loved and it was such a big part of his life.
“He will be sadly missed across the game of golf in this country and our thoughts and prayers are with Barrie’s family.”
DuncanWeir ofThe R&A said:“Barrie was a tremendous servant to Scottish golf over many years and was a widely respected figure in international amateur golfing circles.
“As a selector Barrie worked with several generations of emerging young golfers and was well versed in identifying talented young players.
“He was always willing to give advice and guidance and instil confidence in any player looking to progress their career.
“Barrie will be sadly missed, not only atThe R&A but throughout the amateur game.”
Long-time friend Charlie Gallagher, president of Perth and Kinross County Golf Union, said:“No one has done more for county golf in Perth and Kinross than Barrie.
“He was involved for 55 years, from his days as an U14 junior and playing for the boys’and men’s teams before filling every role on the administrative side, serving as the boys’and men’s team captain, manager and president. He never looked for credit or pats on the back.
“He was a mentor to so many young players down the years at county level and for Scotland. He gave advice to them, told it to them straight and they thought the world of Barrie.
“Barrie was a wonderful golfer in his heyday, the real deal, and competed with the likes of Bernard Gallacher and Willie Milne.The younger players knew that and he commanded respect. They listened and learned.
“He will be greatly missed by his many friends in golf and beyond.”
Former British Amateur champion and Challenge Tour pro Bradley said: “Barrie played an influential but secret role in my development, through being both a Scottish and GB&I Boys’ selector.
“I will never forget the last thing he told me, while I was on the putting green at Blair. He said ‘you’ve always been good enough so just pull your finger out’.
“And then, sadly, I was treated to the infamous Barrie Douglas laugh for the last time.”
Barrie, whose father James was a well-known solicitor and honorary sheriff, took up the game as a youngster at Craigie Hill. He was also a member of Blairgowrie, the Royal Perth Golfing Society and Perth Academy FPs.
A keen sportsman, Barrie played 1st XV rugby for Perthshire in his younger days and curled with St Martins. He also kept an eye on the fortunes of St Johnstone.
In his business life Barrie was highly respected in the printing industry. He secured qualifications from college in Glasgow and for many years owned JacksonThe Stationer in St John Street and his talents were also in demand from well known firms likeWoods, Culross and Farquhars.
Funeral arrangements will be confirmed at a later date.