The Wanamaker Trophy is the prestigious championship prize awarded to the winner of the PGA Championship, one of the four major titles in professional golf. As one of the most recognizable icons in the sport, the trophy serves as a physical link to the earliest days of the PGA of America and remains a symbol of professional excellence.
The Role of Rodman Wanamaker in PGA Championship History
The trophy is named after Rodman Wanamaker, a wealthy department store owner and a pivotal figure in the development of professional golf in the early 20th century. In 1916, Wanamaker organized a luncheon in New York City for leading golf professionals, a gathering that directly led to the formation of the PGA of America. To support the inaugural PGA Championship, Wanamaker donated the original sterling silver trophy and provided a total prize purse of $2,580.
Dimensions of the Wanamaker Trophy
Known for its classic silver aesthetic and imposing scale, the trophy is designed to be a centerpiece of the winner’s ceremony. Its physical characteristics include:
- Weight and Height: It stands approximately 28 inches tall and weighs roughly 27 pounds.
- Design Features: The trophy is crafted from sterling silver and is distinguished by its deep bowl and large, ornate handles.
The original Wanamaker Trophy remains the permanent property of the PGA of America, champions are traditionally given a smaller replica to keep for their personal collections.
Walter Hagen and the Legend of the Missing Trophy
The lore of the prize includes a famous story involving Walter Hagen, who won the championship several times in the 1920s. Following one of his victories, the trophy went missing. According to the legend, the hardware disappeared after being left in a taxi. It remained lost for several years until it was eventually discovered in the basement of a factory belonging to a golf club manufacturer.
A Lasting Symbol of Professional Golf
Today, the trophy continues to represent the pinnacle of achievement for professional golfers worldwide. Beyond its impressive physical presence, it honors the long history of the PGA Championship and the enduring legacy of the individuals who helped establish the professional game over a century ago.