Wallasey is famous for lots of things.
Dr Frank Stableford’s enduring points system – adored by club golfers all over the world – was fully formulated when the protagonist was practising on the second fairway of this North West links in 1931.
The first ever Stableford tournament was subsequently played on the classic Wirral course the following May.
But it is Wallasey‘s association with one of the greatest achievements in the history of the game, and what followed, that has left an enduring legacy.
Anyone who has paid a passing nod to golf’s history knows about Bobby Jones’ epic Grand Slam in 1930.
The second leg of the quadruple of Amateur Champonship, Open Championship, US Open and US Amateur came at Hoylake when Jones picked up his third Claret Jug with a two shot victory over Macdonald Smith.
In those days, every player in the field had to qualify and Jones was no exception – coming through a qualifying round at both Royal Liverpool and Wallasey on his way to glory.
To mark his Open victory, and the 77 he shot on his appearance at Wallasey, ex-captain Sir Ernest Royden commissioned a portrait of Jones, which was presented to the club and is still displayed in the main lounge. It was produced by well-known artist, and member, John AA Berrie, who painted it in oils.
The story doesn’t end there. Jones was reportedly so delighted with the work that he signed the portrait – the only occasion he ever put his moniker on a likeness.
He then commissioned Berrie to produce a replica and that hangs in the entry way of the Augusta National clubhouse.
Jones was made an honorary life member of Wallasey the year after his Grand Slam winning achievement and is said to have maintained contact with the club throughout his life.
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Steve Carroll
