***UPDATE No. 2 - in under a week, thanks to everyone’s generosity, we've passed the original target of £1800, and nearly hit the updated target of £3600, we're incredibly grateful to everyone. We have increased the target figure again, additional money will go towards permanent and portable defibs for Carnoustie, with any remainder to be donated to a heart charity. We cannot thank you enough for your generosity***

On the 1st of September 2021, Chris Smith, former captain of Carnoustie Golf Club, passed away suddenly of a heart attack whilst playing golf at Carnoustie Links. Friends, first aiders and emergency services attempted to save him, but were sadly unsuccessful. The Smith family thank them all for their heroic actions in attempting to save Chris.

When he wasn’t teaching, Chris spent a large part of his life on the Carnoustie Links, either as a player, a spectator, in his role as Captain, as a caddy, or as the Deputy Head Marshall or Head Marshall at countless Opens, Scottish Opens, Women’s Open and Dunhill competitions. Chris was well known to locals and visitors, and spent many hours on the course making new friends, passing on the history of Carnoustie Golf Course, and of golfing in Scotland, to visitors, and new players.

The Smith family have spoken to the Links Committee about placing at least one extra defibrillator on the course in Chris’s memory, so that hopefully it can be used to help another player who may find themselves in distress in the future. Although full costings are still to be confirmed, it is believed a defibrillator will cost approximately £1500 - £1800. The Links Committee have very kindly offered to co-ordinate the facilitation and installation of the defibrillator, and to cover the cost of the installation, for which the Smith family are incredibly grateful. The Links Committee have suggested that a permanent point defibrillator could be installed at the Half-Way house (located at the 10th and 11th hole), and they would also look to identify any other permanent external positions to supplement portable versions. Should the target amount in this appeal be met, any additional funds would be put towards additional defibrillators, with any remaining money donated to a heart charity.

With thanks, Pat, Graeme and Neil.