Memorable Moments of the British Open Championships

As the 2017 British Open Championships approach this summer, let’s take a moment to look at the history of The Open as well as some of the most memorable moments in The Open’s longstanding history. 

For over 150 years, since 1860 to be exact, The British Open has been played on some of the world’s most stunning and elite courses. It has produced a pool of legendary and legacy golfers – crowning only one champion each year. It is in fact, golf’s oldest championship. Because of this, millions around the world, have been brought together by those memories shared and unforgettable moments made. Three of the most decorated golfers and champions; Steve Ballesteros, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson all displayed great skill and conquered great triumph at The Open. 

Now, let’s take a look back at a few of The Open’s most memorable moments in history.

In 1977 at Turnberry, a duel came about between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus. They went acted like fighters in the ring, fighting one another blow by blow to get to the next round. By Saturday, they were undoubtedly paired together with no other golfers in sight to worry about. The Open’s most quotable moment happened on the last day. Watson turned to Nicklaus on the 16th tee and said, “This is what it’s all about, isn’t it?” Nicklaus smiled back and replied, “You bet it is.” In the end, Watson took the win, but the display of respect and sportsmanship by each golfer was something to be remembered forever. 

In the Meltdown of 1999, Jean van de Velde was so close to making history at the Open. He would have been his country’s first Open winner since 1907. The Frenchman needed to not shoot worse than a double-bogey six on 18 to take the title. Instead of making the percentage plays, he made an unenforceable series of bad choices, ultimately leaving Lawrie the ability to swoop in for the title.
However, the moment that makes this so memorable comes after his shot went into the water.
No one could believe what happened next; Van de Velde rolled up his sleeves, took off his shoes and actually went into the water, debating on whether or not to take the shot from there. Just the fact that he contemplated taking the water shot instead of automatically taking the drop, left the crowd speechless and this Open moment one to be remembered.  

Morris was widely known as the first professional golfer, but what most didn’t know is that he worked as a greens keeper, clubmaker and course designer.
In 1872 he won The Open by 13 strokes ahead of his peers, a Championship record that would be held until 2000 when Tiger Woods won the U.S. Open by 15. To top it off, Morris’s legacy didn’t stop there; his son Tom Morris too had the golfers DNA, winning four Opens of his own. 

Are you one of the fortunate individuals that has had the privilege of attending The Open? If not, don’t despair, this is an elite group. In fact, being a part of The British Open is an opportunity of a lifetime, one that most won’t ever experience in any capacity. Look to make your own memories and join in on the fun during this year’s 2017 British Open Championships. Learn how you can make your own history this year.