1876 Open Championship

The 16th Open Championship was held at St Andrews on September 30, 1876.

Davie Strath’s Background

Davie Strath, born in St Andrews in 1849, gave up his job as a legal clerk to become a professional golfer in 1868.

Strath’s Rivalry with Young Tom Morris

Strath was a close friend and major rival of Young Tom Morris, who died in December 1875.

Crowded Course Conditions

The Open was pushed back to a Saturday due to the Royal and Ancient Autumn Meeting, with Prince Leopold installed as captain.

Strath’s Rules Dispute

Strath pulled a shot toward the fifth fairway, hitting an upholsterer named Hutton on the head, then dropped shots after the incident.

The Road Hole Incident

At the 17th, Strath’s ball ran past the green and hit a player putting out, causing a rules dispute.

Playoff Disqualification

Strath was disqualified from the playoff after a rules dispute, allowing Bob Martin to win the title.

“Settle it now or I won’t be here in the morning”