Sandy Lyle

Alexander Walter Lyle (Sandy Lyle) (born February 9, 1958) is a British golfer.

Lyle was born in Shrewsbury, England but represented Scotland. Along with Nick Faldo and Ian Woosnam, he became one of Britain's top golfers during the 1980s.

Lyle was introduced to golf by his father. He began playing with miniature clubs at the age of 3. As an amateur Lyle won the English Amateur Stroke Play championship in 1975 and 1977. He was a member of the Walker Cup team.

In 1977 he turned professional. His first professional victory was the 1978 Nigerian Open. Lyle showed his quality by winning the British Open at Sandwich in 1985. The first British winner since Tony Jacklin, and continued the rise of European golfers in the world scene, that would culminate with victory for the European Ryder cup team at the Belfry a few months later.

For many golf fans he is best known for the bunker shot at the 18th hole in the US Masters in 1988 when he became the first Briton to wear the green jacket. He also won the World Matchplay trophy after being a losing finalist on several previous occasions.

As a player, Lyle is known for his cool temperament and placid exterior. In the late 80's his form became inconsistent, however his achievements inspired fellow rivals such as Nick Faldo and Ian Woosnam to raise their games, and go on to win the 'majors'.