Zoe said the secretary of Royal Portrush at the time picked the location on the iconic sixth tee and it was unveiled as a surprise to Jim for his big day.
“She knew the lie of the land and we think she picked the best spot,” Zoe added.
“It was a surprise for him and it’s been a joy to enjoy it ever since.
“Dad was really excited because he was one of the few people to get a bench while they were still alive. He would often sit on it with his friends and have the craic.
“There have been a lot of stories and family memories from the bench, and now it’s been amazing to see so many people from this Open enjoying it.”
Claire, Jim’s other daughter, said her father “would have absolutely loved” seeing some of the sport’s biggest names enjoy his bench at the Open.
The sisters added that they come and visit the bench every year to reflect on memories of their dad. In Claire’s words, “most people go to a grave. We go to a bench”.
“We were so excited and we know Dad would have got such a kick from it,” she said while enjoying the Open with Zoe on Saturday.
“He would have loved it if he was still here.
“It’s been a bit mad, but we always thought it was the best bench in golf. There was never any dispute around that for us, it’s pretty cool.”
The bench is a legacy of friendship – in a way that only a sport like golf can provide – and now others can enjoy a moment of tranquillity, reflection or craic – including some of the sport’s biggest names.
