Arnold Palmer's charge at Cherry Hills during the 1960 U.S. Open is one of the most memorable and inspiring moments in golf history. Here are the key details of his remarkable comeback:
-
The Setting: The 1960 U.S. Open was held at the Cherry Hills Country Club in Denver, Colorado. The course was known for its challenging layout, with narrow fairways and fast greens.
-
The Situation: Going into the final round, Palmer was trailing by seven strokes behind the leaders, Mike Souchak and Arnold's rival, Jack Nicklaus. It seemed unlikely that Palmer could overcome such a significant deficit.
-
The Charge: Undeterred by the deficit, Palmer unleashed a stunning display of aggressive and fearless golf. He played with remarkable precision, attacking the course and taking calculated risks. Palmer's attacking style, combined with his powerful drives and exceptional short game, propelled him up the leaderboard.
-
The Back Nine: The defining moment of Palmer's charge came on the back nine. He made a series of incredible shots and clutch putts, including a memorable eagle on the par-5 17th hole after hitting a remarkable recovery shot from the rough. Palmer's charge electrified the crowd and left everyone in awe of his performance.
-
The Victory: Palmer's charge resulted in a final-round score of 65, which was unmatched by any other player that day. His incredible comeback secured him the U.S. Open title, and he finished two strokes ahead of the runners-up, Jack Nicklaus and Ben Hogan. It was Palmer's first U.S. Open victory and solidified his reputation as a charismatic and talented golfer.
Arnold Palmer's charge at Cherry Hills in the 1960 U.S. Open is regarded as one of the greatest comebacks in golf history. It showcased Palmer's aggressive playing style, mental fortitude, and ability to rise to the occasion under pressure. His victory captivated the golfing world and endeared him to fans worldwide, establishing him as a true legend of the sport.