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History of Golf

Posted on October 12th, 2009 by Mike

A Short History of Golf

Who actually invented golf? Well there are a few, no more than a few countries that lay claim to inventing the game that has evolved into what we now know as "Golf."

No less than 9 countries call the game of golf their invention. I'm sure each claim has some validity, as anyone that ever hit a rock or pebble with a crooked stick can proclaim they invented a new game.

The origin of the word golf is said to have its beginnings from the Dutch language. In Dutch "golf"is believed to originate from the word "colf" which translated means "Club."

No one can for certain identify who actually did invent golf, but I for one am certainly glad they did. The most common conception is that golf originated in Scotland, considered by many to be the birthplace of golf's beginnings.

So, in Edinburgh, Scotland the first known golf society has its roots. Originally called "The Gentlemen Golfers" which later transitioned into what became known as the "Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers." Muirfield is the name of the place they hang their hat today, and boast their club was already in progress as early as 1744.

Some Interesting Golf History Facts

In 1857 the first inter-Scotland club matches took place, a short few years later(1860) the world would be invited to play in what is known today as the British Open.

The US Open was established 35 years after the British Open. ( Formerly called The World Open)

The British Open is an all inclusive competition, the US Open has slowly been progressing in that direction in the last decade or so.

American golf became popular in the early 20th century, although it is not known for certain when it actually did come across the pond.

America would then, because of the overwhelming popularity of the game produce the world's best players.

As early as the 1900's the game of golf became an American obsession, proof of this was the fact that by this time in history, America had more golf clubs than Britain.

Some of the American icons I cannot say I enjoyed watching, the likes of Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, and Gary Player. But the next generation was a pleasure as a young kid, who had never palyed the game yet. Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicholas, Lee Trevino, Johnny Miller, and who can ever forget Chi Chi Rodriquez.

In 1996 after graduating from Stanford University, the buzz was already at fever pitch over a young phenom named Eldrick "Tiger" Woods. Within 3 years he was already crushing the competition, in 1999 he won 8 tournaments, in 2000 he won 9. This was a prelude to winning 4 major championships in a row, beginning with the US Open in 2000, and finishing up with the Masters.

If Tiger continues to play only half as good today, by the time he retires, maybe sooner he will definitely hold the title of "World's Best Golfer Ever!" End of story, period, exclamation point!