How old is The Open Championship?
It is the original major, but just how old is the Open Championship?
Hosted by the R&A and played only on links courses in the UK, the prestigious championship preceded the second oldest major – the US Open – by 35 years, with its origins dating back to the mid-19th century.
The original Open
The first ever Open was hosted at Prestwick in 1860.
The inaugural event consisted of three consecutive rounds played on one day, each of which were just 12 holes. Willie Park Sr won the event, making him the first ever ‘Champion Golfer of the Year’.
The Claret Jug
The coveted prize for winning The Open – the Claret Jug – was not introduced until 12 years after the tournament’s inaugural event. In 1872, the prestigious trophy was produced and would become the permanent prize for winning the event.
Prior to that, the Open champion received a leather belt with a silver buckle.
Which years had no Open Championship?
The event was cancelled in 1871 as there was no trophy available. Tom Morris Jr had just won three in a row and was therefore entitled to keep the Championship Belt. With no prize on offer, other than prestige, it was decided no tournament would take place.
The Open was also cancelled for five years during World War I, and six during World War II, while the 2020 Open at Royal St George’s was postponed 12 months due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Visit our dedicated Open website for more features from golf’s oldest major
The R&A has announced details of how you can get tickets for the historic 151st Open Championship at Royal Liverpool in 2023. Click here to find out more.
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