Peter Alliss (1931–2020) — Biography & Facts

Born in Berlin in 1931, Peter Alliss entered the world weighing 14 pounds and 11 ounces, a figure reported as a European record. He eventually transitioned from a notable career as a professional golfer into a long-standing role as the primary golf commentator for the British Broadcasting Corporation, leaving an indelible mark on the sporting landscape of the United Kingdom.

Early Development and Professional Start

The son of professional golfer Percy Alliss, Peter spent his youth in an environment defined by the sport. Educated at Queen Elizabeth's School, he left at the minimum age of 14. By 1947, at 16, he became an assistant professional to his father at Ferndown Golf Club in Dorset. His early development was interrupted by National Service in the RAF Regiment from 1949 to 1951, after which he secured a victory in the Assistants' Championship in 1952.

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Competitive Golfing Achievements

Alliss accumulated 20 professional tournament victories between 1952 and 1969, including British PGA Championships in 1957, 1962, and 1965. During his career, he represented England in the World Cup 10 times and appeared on eight Ryder Cup teams. He holds the distinction, alongside his father Percy, of being part of the first father-son duo to participate in and win the Ryder Cup, specifically as part of the victorious 1957 British team.

Broadcasting and Legacy

Following the 1978 death of Henry Longhurst, Alliss became the lead golf analyst for the BBC and also served as an analyst for ABC Sports. His distinctive commentary style earned him the nickname the Voice of Golf. In 2012, he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame under the Lifetime Achievement category. Beyond his media work, he contributed to the field as a golf course architect. He died in 2020 in Hindhead.