Daughter of Former R&A Captain Victim in Sydney Attack


Katrina Dawson, the daughter of Sandy Dawson, the former Royal & Ancient captain, was among the two people killed in Monday's hostage-taking siege in Sydney, Australia.

The 38-year-old mother of three was killed along with a 34-year-old American, Tori Johnson, in the tragic incident. They were among 17 people in the Lindt Chocolate Café when self-styled Muslim radical cleric, Man Haron Monis, entered the establishment and held them hostage for 16 hours before Australian police stormed the building, killing Monis and freeing the other hostages.

Katrina Dawson was an attorney based in Sydney specializing in commercial, bankruptcy and corporate law. The R&A's CEO, George O'Grady, broke the sad news to journalists on Tuesday, noting that Dawson died trying to defend her pregnant colleague, Julie Taylor.

"Our hearts go out to former Royal & Ancient captain Sandy Dawson at this time," said O'Grady.

Sandy Dawson was the R&A's captain in 2013. He was only the second Australian captain of the historic club after Viscount Bruce of Melbourne served in the same position in 1954.

The Dawson family released a statement expressing its loss. "We are shocked and devastated by the tragic and senseless death of our darling Katrina. She was an amazing woman and the most loving and loved wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, in-law and blessed with a wonderful circle of friends and colleagues. We would like to thank everyone who has provided support and wishes over the past 48 hours and ask that we be allowed to support each other in private."

The Royal & Ancient Golf Club released the following message to its members: "It is with great shock and sadness that the Club has learnt of the news that Katrina Dawson, daughter of immediate Past Captain Sandy Dawson, was one of the two hostages who died in the widely reported Sydney cafe siege. Katrina was 38 years old, married with three young children, and a highly respected barrister.

"At this unimaginably difficult time for Sandy and Jane Dawson, their sons Sandy and Angus, Katrina's husband Paul Smith and children Chloe, Oliver and Sasha, and everyone closely connected with the family, the thoughts and prayers of the Club are with them all."