The History of the British Open Golf

By Kim Kleinle

The Open Championship--or British Open, as it is known outside the United Kingdom--is the oldest of golf's four majors. It's the only one not played on U.S. soil.

The Beginning

The first British Open Championship was in 1860. Just eight professionals played three rounds over the 12-hole Prestwick course. Willie Park beat Old Tom Morris by two strokes.

Time Frame

The British Open has been held each year with three time frame exceptions. It wasn't held in 1871 when controversy over the administration of the event canceled play. It was canceled from 1915 to 1919 during World War I. World War II was the reason for its cancellation from 1940 to 1945.

Geography

Although the Open is often associated with the Old Course at St. Andrews, home of the R&A and venue for 27 championships, it travels to different courses. The first 12 Opens were at Prestwick.

Memorable Moment

In 2009, 59-year-old Tom Watson nearly became the oldest winner of the Open Championship, a tournament he won five times in his prime. He needed a par on final hole, but he bogeyed. Watson then lost a four-hole playoff to Stewart Cink.

Fun Fact

Three players won the British Open in three different decades. Harry Vardon won in 1896, 1903 and 1911; J.H Taylor won in 1894, 1900 and 1913. Gary Player won in 1959, 1968 and 1974.

Resources

About The Author

Kim Kleinle is a PGA/LPGA professional and a member of a select group certified in instruction by the Professional Golfers' Association. She began writing in 1980 after earning her degree. Her work has appeared online, in "Northeast Golfer" and in newspapers, including the "Scranton Times." Kleinle holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Point Park University, Pittsburgh.

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