The British Open: A quiz

Won and done

A. Sam Snead and Ben Hogan

Two problems, distance and cash, prevented many post-World War II American stars from competing in the Open. In pre-jet travel days, the expense and time of the ocean cruise was an obvious handicap. Factor in that the first prize purse sometimes only amounted to a few hundred dollars and the general lack of interest can be understood.

Snead only competed in four Opens his entire professional life, and they were widely spaced. As a rising pro star he made the trek in 1937, tying for 11th. In his waning pro days, he returned in 1962 – he tied for sixth — and again in 1965, when he missed the cut.

Snead’s only other open appearance came at St. Andrews when the event resumed following World War II. In the prime of his career, he won the second of an eventual seven Majors, defeating Locke by four strokes.

Hogan largely disdained the event, largely for the likelihood of losing money even if he won the trophy. Finally in 1953 his buddies prevailed on him – by then recognized as the game’s greatest player – to complete his resume by adding the Open title to it.

As the defending Masters and U.S. Open champion, Hogan came to Carnoustie a prohibitive favorite, and he did not disappoint. He beat Antonio Cerda, Dai Reese, Frank Stranahan and Peter Thomson by four strokes each. Having proven to the British audience what the U.S. golf world already knew regarding his greatness, Hogan accepted the first place check of $1,400, went home and never returned.

Question 6. The first champion from someplace other than Europe or the United States was…

Gary Player

Bobby Locke

Peter Thomson