Golf History on May 27, 1976

ON THIS DAY: The origins of the Memorial Tournament

Jack Nicklaus and Grier Jones in the Memorial Tournament, 1976 (Photo: Columbus Metropolitan Library)


On this day in Ohio golf history, the first round of the inaugural Memorial Tournament was played at Muirfield Village Golf Club in 1976.

The tournament, along with the golf course, was created by Jack Nicklaus in an effort to bring his passion for golf to life in his hometown of Columbus, Ohio. The tournament is invitational, one of five on the PGA Tour with this title. Additionally, the tournament hosts a yearly induction ceremony in honor of distinguished golfers.

Roger Maltbie won the 1976 tournament during his second year on the PGA Tour.

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