Now in its 91st edition, WC Phoenix Open has a history with history. Before the tour became “The Greatest Bar Show” in TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course in 1987, the Tour stop was called and Phome of Hoenix Country Club – a course (and club) older than the state of Arizona.
Phoenix Country Club was founded in 1899, while Arizona became the 48th state of the United States more than two decades later, in 1912. Located in downtown Phoenix, Phoenix Country Club remains an integral and vibrant part of the history of the WM Phoenix Open to this day, with a star-studded roster that includes Nicklaus, Ben Hogan, Billy Casper and Johnny Miller.
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The club hasn’t changed much over the years either. While it includes every modern convenience, there is no instant time. Instead, each day’s paper is given out on a first-come, first-served basis – in person. But members can also choose to participate in nearly a dozen cash games each week, some of which have been around for decades.
“It’s amazing — the history of the country, the number of players, the history of the tournament — and yet the size of the golf course hasn’t changed,” Phoenix Country head professional Paul Griffin said. “She still holds her own to this day.”
In Episode 2 of Destination GOLF: Phoenix, our editors explore the origins of the WM Phoenix Open at Phoenix Country Club and its stay at the modern host, TPC Scottsdale, where it continues to be the PGA Tour’s most attended tournament each year. We hear from the Thunderbirds, the philanthropic organization that puts on the WM Phoenix Open each year, as well as tournament fans like you, about what makes the WM Phoenix Open so beloved.
The big takeaway? The tournament is truly an event unlike any other. To experience a piece of WM Phoenix Open’s remarkable history, take a look at the second episode of Destination GOLF: Phoenix below. Missed Episode 1 on Phoenix Public Golf? Follow by clicking here.
This feature video is also available on our YouTube channel. Watch it and subscribe to our channel here.
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