Stars mourn Jimmy
Sunday Mail 59
Golf stars lined up last night to pay tribute to top caddie Jimmy Rae.
The man known around the world as Edinburgh Jimmy died on Thursday at the age of 66.
Rae carried the bags of a host of top stars but was best known as the long-time caddie of former Ryder Cup skipper Paul McGinley.
The Tranent bagman also worked with the likes of Ian Poulter, fellow Scot Andrew Oldcorn and Ireland’s Damien McGrane.
But it was calling the shots for McGinley which brought the most reward for Rae, including their stunning 2005 Volvo Masters triumph at Valderrama.
He was renowned for his humour and stories which helped while away many lengthy journeys between tournaments –even if some of his company didn’t have a clue what he was saying due to his broad Scots accent.
Jimmy was one of an everdepleting band of ‘old school’ caddies. He knew his job inside out and it is no surprise McGinley, who i ncluded Rae i n hi s backroom team for the 2014
Ryder Cup win, led the tributes to him.
He said on Twitter: “Very sad news to start the new year in that my long time friend and caddy Edinburgh Jimmy passed away today – I’m so sad and will miss him terribly.”
Poulter added: “Such a sad start to 2020. One of the European tour’s characters. Heavy Head as he always cal led me. James Rae has passed away. What a gentle giant. His bark was louder than his bite. One of the kindest caddies I ever met #RIP. You will be missed.”
Top Scottish star Stephen Gal lacher, who of ten travelled with Jimmy, said: “So sad to hear. I was with him in mid-December.”
Three- time European Tour winner Oldcorn said: “They broke the mould with Jimmy. Always had me in stitches.”
Former PGA champ Shaun Micheel shared his sadness from America.
He said: “I loved being around him even though I only understood about half of what he said. Made me want to spend more time with him.”