History of Ping Anser Putters

In developing the Anser putter, Solheim sought to "help golfers play their best and enjoy the game." Originally, he made club improvements to help his own game.

The Anser heel-to-toe weighted putter, successor to the Ping putter, was invented as an "answer" to competitors' putters. Solheim's wife suggested shortening the name to Anser to better fit on the club.

Acceptance grew after Julius Boros used it to win the 1967 Phoenix Open and George Archer won the first major with it at the 1969 Masters. Over 500 tournaments have been won using the Ping Anser putter.

The FBR Open in February, 2009, found 10 players using the Ping Anser putter and about 40 others using Anser-style putters from other manufacturers. Winner Kenny Perry used a PING putter.

Karsten Solheim's contributions to golf-club innovation reflect his commitment to and love for the game of golf. The Anser putter is just one of many innovations that helped make the game more enjoyable for amateurs and PGA professionals alike. Solheim was also instrumental in establishing the Solheim Cup, a tournament where U.S. and European women golfers compete for national pride.