The Wanamaker Trophy: A History of the PGA Championship's Prize

In-Depth Analysis

The Wanamaker Trophy, a symbol of golfing excellence, has a history as rich and storied as the tournament itself. Dating back to 1916, the trophy was named after Rodman Wanamaker, a department store heir instrumental in the formation of the PGA of America. Its imposing size and weight (28 inches tall, 10.5 inches in diameter, and 27 pounds) make it one of the most substantial trophies in sports.

One of the most famous anecdotes surrounding the Wanamaker Trophy involves Walter Hagen, who reportedly lost the trophy after his 1925 victory. Hagen claimed he gave it to a taxi driver to take back to his hotel, but it never arrived. The trophy remained missing for six years, adding to Hagen's legendary status as a showman. The original trophy resurfaced later and is now displayed at the PGA of America headquarters in Frisco, Texas.

In more recent times, the Wanamaker Trophy has continued to surprise winners. Collin Morikawa, after his 2020 PGA Championship win, nearly dropped the lid of the trophy during the celebration. Rory McIlroy had a similar experience, catching the lid mid-air during his 2014 victory. These incidents highlight the trophy's unwieldy nature and add a touch of humor to the winner's celebration.

Champions get to keep the Wanamaker Trophy for a year, before returning it and receiving a 10 percent smaller replica to keep permanently. While some champions like to fill it with celebratory cocktails (Jack Daniels and Diet Coke, according to Rich Beem!), transporting it is no easy feat, unlike the Claret Jug awarded to the Open Champion. All names of the winners are engraved on the trophy, with Walter Hagen and Jack Nicklaus appearing on it the most (five times each).

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FAQ

How heavy is the Wanamaker Trophy?

The Wanamaker Trophy weighs 27 pounds (12.2 kilograms).

What happened to the original Wanamaker Trophy?

Walter Hagen lost it after his 1925 victory. It was later found and is now at the PGA of America headquarters.

Do the winners get to keep the real trophy?

No, winners get to keep it for a year and then receive a 10% smaller replica.

Takeaways

The Wanamaker Trophy has a long and interesting history, filled with surprising moments.
It's one of the heaviest and most awkward trophies in golf.
The trophy symbolizes the prestige and tradition of the PGA Championship.

Discussion

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Sources

The curious case of the missing Wanamaker Trophy The PGA Championship trophy can outdrink (nearly) every other trophy The PGA Championship's Wanamaker Trophy is a beast of a jug that continues to surprise the golfers who win it

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