Ohio Public Golf Association History
Founded in 1928, the Ohio Public Golf Association continues it's mission of perpetuating The Ohio Golf Association. These premier events have produced great champions and great stories.
In addition to the trophy given in each championship, the OPGA also awards an annual Pennell Sportsmanship award, and a Hall of Fame award.
The OPGA ensures the success of it's mission through the tireless efforts of the Officers and Directors, who orchestrate the effort to produce superior competition at outstanding courses.
The OPGA has witnessed tremendous growth (not to mention exceptional golf) over the years, the following timeline illustrates our humble beginnings....
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1930, Columbus native Ray Pennell realizes a dream and launches the Public Links Championship. Inaugural winner Scotty Reston goes on to become one of the nation's top columnists at the New York Times. |
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1936, The tournament continues despite the depression, one local hotel offered rooms for 7 cents an occupant--7 people in a room, one in bathroom, etc. |
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1942, Championship was cut short do to World War II |
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1942, Hank Sawicki sets the all time low scoring record of 65-67 (including a double bogey on the last hole) |
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1939, Ken Peterson won by an 18 stroke margin |
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1948, Jay whatever won assumed dual roles as a bartender at the club Sunningdale Club |
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1955, someone Daniels wins the event at age 16. |
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1957, Don Nist wins the championship, and is named to the state legislature a year later |
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1961 &1962, Tom Weiskopf wins |
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1963, former prize fighter Lalu Sabotin was the victory |