History

Two-time champion Bruce Lietzke revels in his first Canadian Open win (Glen Abbey, 1978).

One hundred years later, there's still nothing like being there.

Since its inception in 1904, the Canadian Open has played host to the world's best golfers and produced countless memorable moments. Sports fans across the country and around the world have been entertained by legends including former champions Byron Nelson, Arnold Palmer, Tiger Woods, Vijay Singh and Jim Furyk. The list of legends also includes Sam Snead and Lee Trevino, who each won the Canadian Open three times. Greg Norman, Tom Weiskopf, Curtis Strange, Nick Price and Jim Furyk all won twice. Jack Nicklaus, considered by many to be the greatest golfer ever, was the runner-up seven times. Today, the RBC Canadian Open remains one of the premier events on the PGA Tour. It is the second oldest stop on the PGA Tour and the third oldest national championship in the world. With its older cousins, the British and U.S. Opens, it constitutes the Triple Crown of national championships. Its rich history gives it a cachet and tradition that makes it much more than a regular golf championship.

Nick Price displays the touch that would help bring him two Open championships.

The first Canadian Open was 36-holes long and lasted only one day. The winner, John H. Oke, shot 156 and pocketed $60 as his reward. Obviously the intervening years have seen major changes in professional golf. But just like the timeless satisfaction of hitting a perfect drive, the excitement of Open competition has stayed constant. From legendary names to overnight sensations, golfers of all backgrounds have battled for the championship and thrilled the crowds. Seventeen championships have needed playoff holes to decide the winner.

In addition to great finishes, the Open has provided some fascinating stories. Who became the youngest player ever to make the cut at a PGA event? (15 year-old Bob Panasiuk of Windsor in 1957) Who hit a rare double eagle on the 6th hole at Glen Abbey? (Greg Norman) What did Lee Trevino wear one year to keep warm? (pajamas under his golf shirt and pants) Which championship was the first of Arnold Palmer's 61 PGA Tour victories? (The Canadian Open)