Golf's narrative is incomplete without mentioning Oakmont Country Club, a venue steeped in tradition and challenge.
This year, from June 12-15, the course will welcome the U.S. Open for an unprecedented tenth time, continuing its legacy of testing the world's finest players for over a century.
"The best of the best tend to win here, and sometimes the best of the best have their hearts broken here," remarked David Moore, the club's historian, reflecting on the course's formidable reputation.
Since its inception in 1903, Oakmont has been a place where precision is rewarded and errors are harshly penalized. Among its most notorious features are the church pew bunkers, which have evolved in name and design over the decades. Moore explained that a newspaper writer coined the term in the 1960s.
"He said if you hit it into these church pew-like bunkers, only divine intervention can help you save par, and the name has stuck ever since," Moore noted during an interview at the club.
Interestingly, despite its name, over 90% of Oakmont Country Club lies within Plum Borough. "Oakmont was named after the town where the train station was located, which is why it’s not called Plum Country Club," Moore clarified.
The club's significance in golf history is undeniable. It has hosted more U.S. Opens than any other course, beginning with its first in 1927. Since then, it has held one every decade except for the 1940s.
"Between Johnny Miller's 63, Jack [Nicklaus] and [Arnold Palmer] in '62, and Ben Hogan's fourth and final victory in 1953," Moore recounted, highlighting some of the tournament's most memorable moments.
Hole 18 stands out as a site of both triumph and despair, shaping countless stories over the years. "Eighteen has just been instrumental in crowning or breaking hearts over the last 120 years here," Moore added.
As the U.S. Open approaches, Oakmont Country Club prepares to write yet another chapter in its storied history.
Chris is an award-winning reporter who began his journey with KDKA in May 2019 and is eager to share local stories with his community!
