Born in Drogheda, Smyth turned professional in 1974 and was a member of the European Tour for more than 25 years. Won eight tournaments across four decades and, in 2001, broke Neil Coles' record as the oldest man to win a European Tour event at the age of 48 years and 34 days - a record which stood for 11 years.

Twice played in The Ryder Cup and also won the Alfred Dunhill Cup in 1988 alongside Eamonn Darcy and Ronan Rafferty. A five-time Senior Tour winner, including two victories at the Travis Perkins Masters in the space of three years.