Willie Park, Sr.

Willie Park, Sr. (b 1834 Musselburgh, Scotland, d 1903) was one of the pioneers of professional golf.

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Like some of the other early professional golfers, Park started out at a caddie. He later ran a golf equipment manufacturing business. On the course, he made his money from "Challenge matches" against rivals such as Old Tom Morris, Willie Dunn and Allan Robertson, which were the most popular form of spectator golf in his era. However, Park is mainly remembered as the winner of four Open Championships, including the inaugural event in 1860, when the field was just eight strong. His other victories came in 1863, 1866 and 1875. Park was the co-holder of the record for most wins in the tournament until James Braid picked up his fifth win in 1910.

Related Topics:
Old Tom Morris - Willie Dunn - Allan Robertson - Open Championships - James Braid

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Park's brother Mungo Park and his son Willie Park, Jr. both won The Open Championship.

Related Topics:
Mungo Park - Willie Park, Jr.

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