Arnold Palmer Turnberry 1960
The oldest major in senior golf, where legends compete for history.
The Senior PGA Championship, established in 1937, is the oldest of the five major championships in men's senior golf. It is administered by the Professional Golfers' Association of America and is recognized as a major championship by both PGA Tour Champions and the European Senior Tour.
Quick Facts
- Event
- The Open Championship (British Open)
- Year
- 1960
- Venue
- St Andrews Old Course
- Location
- St Andrews, Scotland
- Winner
- Kel Nagle
- Margin of victory
- One stroke
Lore & Background
The inaugural event was played in 1937 at Augusta National Golf Club, with 54-year-old Jock Hutchison winning the 54-hole event. The second edition at Augusta was reduced to 36 holes due to rain, with an 18-hole playoff won by Fred McLeod. No tournaments were held in 1943 and 1944 due to World War II. The event moved to different courses in Florida through 2000. It became a 72-hole event in 1958. In 2011, KitchenAid became presenting sponsor, and Harbor Shores Golf Club was designated as the championship's home course, hosting in alternate years starting in 2012. The Championship was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reader's Guide
The lower age limit is 50. Winners gain entry into the next PGA Championship. The winners prior to 1980 are not considered major champions of this event by the PGA Tour Champions. The event allows club professionals to enter, with invitations given to former winners of the PGA Professional National Championship upon turning 50 and the top 35 club professionals who qualify through the Senior PGA Professional National Championship.
Did You Know?
- The Senior PGA Championship was a 36-hole event until 1954, then 54 holes for four years, and became a 72-hole event in 1958.
- Sam Snead has the most wins with six (1964, 1965, 1967, 1970, 1972, 1973).
- The event was not held in 1939, 1943, 1944, 1983, and 1985.
- Two tournaments were played in 1979 and 1984.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were Palmer's main competitors in this event?
He faced a strong field including Ken Venturi and Peter Thomson to secure the title. Palmer ultimately won by two strokes over Venturi in a dramatic final round.
Where was the 1960 Open Championship played?
The tournament took place at Turnberry Golf Club in Ayrshire, Scotland. This coastal venue is renowned for its challenging conditions during major championships.
How did Palmer's performance impact his career legacy?
This defining performance cemented Arnold Palmer's status as a global icon beyond just domestic success. It remains one of the most celebrated rounds in professional golf history.
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