The 2016-2017 championship golf season is well underway, but many of the top ranked events are still ahead. Ranking of PGA Tour events that took several categories into consideration indicate that the top six are all up and coming. The following are the three top-rated major golf championships, and the number one event happens to be next on the calendar.
Considerations in Ranking Major Golf Championships
Championship golfers were surveyed and provided their answers to numerous questions for the purpose of ranking golf championship events. The results of the survey provided the answer to the question: What are the top rated major golf championships of the 2016-2017 season? Those surveyed provided feedback on the following categories and more to arrive at ranking order:
- Prize money
- Strength of field
- History
- Tradition
- Quality of the course
- Cleanliness of courtesy cars
- Social media presence
Ranked No. 1 – April 6-9, 2017 – The Masters Tournament
The golf championship preferred most by a double-digit margin, compared to the second in ranking, is The Masters Tournament to be held April 6-9, 2017. This most coveted major golf event is, of course, held in Augusta, Georgia, at the Augusta National Golf Club. This extremely well-organized and well-managed event is held at the immaculate course most closely associated with the late great Bobby Jones. Although on the list of championship events, it is more correct to call it an invitational, in keeping with Jones’ ardent wishes. The green jacket is one among many features that make this the number one event for top golfers, year after year.
Ranked No. 2 – July 20-23, 2017 – The Open Championship
The Open Championship, also referred to as the British Open, will be held on July 20-23, 2017, at Royal Birkdale. The Open is the oldest of the four major professional golf championships, the other three being the Masters Tournament, the U.S. Open, and the PGA Championship. Fourteen different courses have hosted The Open, and Royal Birkdale is hosting for the tenth time. Located 20 miles north of Liverpool, England, Royal Birkdale is situated on a scenic stretch of beautiful linksland. Features of this tournament that make it a standout among players and fans include quirky links golf, trajectory control in high winds, ground game options, and cool hats. History is also a draw. The course was first established in 1889 and first hosted The Open in 1954.
Ranked No. 3 – June 15-18, 2017 – U.S. Open
Erin Hills in Erin, Wisconsin, is a first-time host of the U.S. Open, which has traditionally ranked above The British Open. Recent course choices, setups, and controversial rulings have had their effect on this top golf championship. Length is a major part of the challenge at Erin Hills, which may be the longest course in the history of the U.S. Open. Characteristics of U.S. Open play include tight scoring, high cut or “open rough,” and undulating greens. The first-ever U.S. Open was a one-day event on October 4, 1895, in Newport, Rhode Island, at the Newport Country Club. The winner’s share of the purse at the 2016 U.S. Open was $1.8 million. Winning the U.S Open paves the way for several rare privileges, one of which is a much more secure career and solid standing as an elite player.
The top three golf championships are can’t-miss events, but there are also many more that golfers can look forward to this year. The Ironhorse Country Club golf course is a great place to hone skills, for anyone dreaming of being an elite championship golfer.