[6] The event was the first of three editions of the Senior British Open, three years in a row, held at the Royal County Down Golf Club.

Defending champion Christy O'Connor Jnr did not play due to an ankle injury sustained when his motorcycle fell on him.

[8] The field included five former winners of The Open Championship, Bob Charles (2nd), Jack Nicklaus (tied 3rd), Gary Player (tied 18th), Tony Jacklin (missed cut) and Arnold Palmer (missed cut).

Sunday, 29 July 2001 Bob Charles and Ian Stanley tied the lead after the fourth round, to meet in a sudden death playoff, to decide the winner.

Leading amateur, winning the Silver medal, was Arthur Pierse, Ireland, finishing tied 50th at 16 over par.