A Retrospective: Important Dates in New Jersey Golf - August Edition

Photo: John J. McDermott

Each month, the NJSGA features historical moments in New Jersey golf history by Kevin Casey, author of Remarkable Stories of New Jersey Golf. Here is a look at notable August dates:

August 12, 1891 - John J. McDermott was born. A professional playing out of Atlantic City Country Club, McDermott was the first American-born U.S. Open champion. He embellished that distinction by following up his 1911 Open win at Chicago Golf Club with a successful defense at the 1912 Open at the Golf Club of Buffalo. Yes, he won two straight U.S. Opens – a feat matched only 5 times since – before he reached age 22. In late 1914, after a series of personal setbacks, McDermott suffered what was described as a nervous breakdown and was soon committed to an asylum, where he spent the rest of his life, largely forgotten by the game he – for a tragically short time – mastered.

August 15, 2005 - Phil Mickelson captured the 87th PGA Championship at Baltusrol Golf Club’s Lower Course in Springfield. It was Mickelson’s first of two PGA Championships and second major title. Mickelson’s one-shot win came with a trademark flop shot that led to a birdie on the par-5 18th hole for a 276 total.