Pepe Sabini, one of the most influential and respected figures in Italian golf over the past half century and an Honorary Life Vice President of The European Tour, has died following a tragic road accident in Rome at the age of 91.
A much decorated War hero, Pepe dedicated himself to the game of golf after being demobbed at the end of World War II. He played a prominent role in re-starting the Italian Federation in the late forties and had been a member of the Board since 1948.
He was on the Technical Committee of the European Golf Association from 1956-1961 and an Honorary Secretary of the EGA from 1961-1977. He captained all the amateur teams under the jurisdiction of the Italian Federation but, above all, his great passion was for the Italian Open, prior to and since it became part of The European Tour International Schedule.
Pepe was the Federation’s representative at innumerable Italian Opens, including every tournament since the resumption of the event in 1971 after an 11 year gap. He was accorded Honorary Life Vice Presidency of The European Tour in 1991, the year in which the World Cup of Golf, as it was known at the time, was played at La Querce in his native city of Rome.
George O’Grady, Deputy Executive Director of The European Tour, said: “We mourn the passing of a very dear friend. Pepe was a great enthusiast who worked tirelessly to establish and perfect the Italian Teaching School and helped advance the cause of golf not only in Italy but the entire continent.
“He was respected wherever the game of golf is played and will be sorely missed. The European Tour sends its sincere condolences to his wife, Giovannella, and son, Lando.”
Mario Camicia, formerly a Tournament Director of the Italian Open, paid his own tribute to the man he describes as “The father of Italian golf”.
He said: “This is a massive loss, both personally and for the game of golf. Everyone associated with Italian golf loved Pepe. He was involved with every aspect of the game in Italy and he was an inspiration to all who played the game in our country.
“Even at the age of 91 his mind was still active and it is heart-breaking that he died in such tragic circumstances. He was the father of Italian golf and utterly devoted to the game. He was moved to tears when The European Tour made him an Honorary Life Vice president and was an enthusiastic supporter of the Tour, as well as being the oldest Italian member of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club.”
Italian Golf Federation
