Have you ever heard of a golf course that hosted the first televised PGA Championship? That’s what makes Llanerch Country Club so special. In 1958, Llanerch became the first golf course ever to broadcast the PGA Championship in its modern stroke-play format. This historic event marked a monumental turning point in golf history and placed Llanerch on the map as a significant golfing hub.
The Llanerch Country Club, located in Havertown, Pennsylvania, boasts a rich history, having opened its doors in 1919. It’s more than just a golf course; it’s an iconic landmark steeped in tradition and sporting excellence. In its early years, the course was known under different names, including Delaware County Country Club and Bon Air Country Club. The course was initially designed by Alexander Findlay, a renowned Scottish-born golfer who brought his expertise to the American golfing scene.
Before the 1958 PGA Championship made Llanerch famous, it was already host to a variety of prestigious events. In 1945, renowned golfer Byron Nelson won the Philadelphia Inquirer Invitation Tournament at Llanerch, securing his seventh win in a remarkable streak of eleven consecutive victories. But it was the 1958 PGA Championship at Llanerch that really put the course in the spotlight, cementing its place in golf history. This was the first PGA Championship in the modern format, with four days and 72 holes played over a new television broadcast, making the event a landmark achievement. The event was won by Dow Finsterwald.
Llanerch has continued to make headlines, hosting the Philadelphia Amateur Championship and Philadelphia Section PGA events. There are four sets of tees and the course is well-known for its carefully maintained greens and challenging course layout. The recent extensive renovations to the course in 2004, overseen by Stephen Kay, a renowned architect, have ensured that Llanerch remains a classic golf course with a modern twist.
So, when you stand here in front of Llanerch Country Club, imagine the echoes of history and the roars of the crowd during those legendary events. This isn’t just a golf course; it’s a living testament to the timeless allure of the game itself.