The Open Championship is one of the most revered tournaments in golf. It’s steeped in tradition, in history, and in truly magical moments. In honor of the 150th edition of the tournament, we’ve gathered a few fun facts about the Open Championship you may not know.
Fun Facts About the Open Championship
1. It’s old! That’s right, the Open is the oldest of the modern-day four major tournaments.
2. It’s also the only major played outside of the United States.
3. The first Open Championship was in 1860 at Prestwick Golf Club. It consisted of a field of only eight players and was won by Willie Park Sr. who went on to win three more times.
4. The winner was awarded the Challenge Belt, a silver-buckled leather belt, up until 1872 when they switched to the Claret Jug.
5. In 1862, Tom Morris Senior won the Open by 13 strokes – a record that still stands today.
6. Harry Vardon holds the record for most Open wins with six (1896, 1898, 1899, 1903, 1911, 1914).
7. The Open was played at St. Andrews for the first time in 1873.
8. The Open was broadcasted in color on BBC Television for the first time in 1969.
9. There are nine courses in the Open rotation including the Old Course at St. Andrews, Carnoustie Golf Links, Muirfield, the Ailsa Course at the Westin Turnberry Resort, Royal Troon Golf Club, Royal St. George’s Golf Club, Royal Birkdale Golf Club, Royal Lytham & St. Annes Golf Club, and Royal Liverpool Golf Club.
10. The Old Course at St. Andrews has hosted more Open Championships than any other course. The 150th edition of the tournament marks the course’s 30th Open.