History of Golf Origins
While many assume golf started in Scotland around the 15th century, its true origins may trace back to Roman times with a game called 'paganica'. Balls were hit with bent sticks, precursors to modern clubs.
Golf Balls Evolution
Golf balls have drastically evolved from the 'featherie', a hand-sewn cowhide ball stuffed with feathers, to the 'guttie', made from gutta-percha resin, and now to advanced dimpled designs optimizing aerodynamics.
Famous Golf Course Architect
Dr. Alister MacKenzie, the course architect of Augusta National, believed in creating challenging yet beautiful courses. His designs integrated the natural landscape, emphasizing strategic play over raw power.
Rare Double Eagle Fact
The 'double eagle', scoring three under par on a hole, is rarer than a hole-in-one. It typically occurs on par-5s, demanding a perfect drive and a precise second shot to reach the green.
The 18-Hole Standard
St Andrews Old Course in Scotland, considered the 'home of golf', was the first to have 18 holes. It set the standard for rounds of golf worldwide, a practice that continues today.
Surprising Golf Moonshot
Golf is so far-reaching that it even made it to the moon. Astronaut Alan Shepard famously hit two golf balls on the lunar surface during the Apollo 14 mission, using a makeshift six-iron.
The Solheim Cup Introduction
Not as well-known as the Ryder Cup, the Solheim Cup is a biennial golf tournament for professional women golfers contested by teams from Europe and the United States, started in 1990.
Golfing Weather Concerns
In 1974, during the World Cup of Golf in Venezuela, players had to pause the game due to an eruption of a nearby volcano.