Sandy was a classic, Scottish caddie of the old school. I first met "Pipey" in 1998, when I , and two other Pebble Beach caddies at the time, went up there in late October after our competition with the St. Andrew's caddies had concluded.
He was pretty much retired from caddying by then, though he would go out, with aid of a buggy, on rare occasions, with longtime clients during important competitions. What a character. His wit, laugh and wry smile were priceless. A superb storyteller, he always had fresh material. My wife, who is from there, and I would always stop by his house for a visit when we were over. Sadly, we hadn't gotten over this year and have only our fond memories of him to cherish.
The game needs, and will dearly miss Sandy "Pipey" Matheson! His type give the game its human soul. Having someone like Sandy take you around a great course, like Royal Dornoch, made the experience so much richer. This is why caddie golf needs better support and nurturing... without it we lose that tremendous source of the games differencemakers, that human dimension so constant in golf's history and evolution. Sandy helped instill that love for the game in his son Kevin, who is a fine player. Dona and the Matheson family certainly will cherish all that golf has given to them and that Sandy tried to give back in his own unique way.
R.I.P Sandy! You were a legend and you can be sure we will never forget you. I for one, will always toast you with a dram, whenever I'm in Dornoch!
Cheers and tears,
Kris