In 1950 the highlight of the U.S. Open, also held at Merion Golf Club, came via Ben Hogan and an iron some of today’s Pros admit they’ve never even swung – the 1-iron.
Over the weekend
Ian Poulter referred to the 18th at Merion as, “probably the hardest hole in golf right now.” Sixty-three years ago Hogan and his 1-iron made it legendary, with a 213-yard shot in the final round. Ultimately forcing a playoff, from which Hogan emerged the champion.
Last week the U.S.G.A’s museum curator, Michael Trostel, spent his time escorting the club throughout the course. Wearing a pair of white gloves, Trostel made sure the Pros, like
Sergio Garcia, got a chance to examine the infamous iron.
Over the last decade the 1-iron has been superseded by the birth of the utility club, leaving it out of most of today’s golf bags and virtually unknown to a younger generation of players.
While it is unlikely to make another appearance on the PGA Tour, the notoriety of the club, especially at Merion lives on. Where a plaque on the 18th hole reminds all of the power of Hogan and his 1-iron.