Golf has always been more than just a sport; for many, it’s a lifelong passion. It’s no surprise, then, that several famous golfers have chosen to have their ashes scattered on the courses they loved. Here’s a look at ten iconic golfers and the special places where their ashes were laid to rest, offering inspiration for those considering unique ashes scattering ideas.
1. Arnold Palmer – Latrobe Country Club
The “King” of golf, Arnold Palmer, spent much of his life at Latrobe Country Club in Pennsylvania. After his passing in 2016, a portion of his ashes was scattered at this beloved course, where he first learned to play golf.
2. Seve Ballesteros – Pedreña Golf Club
Seve Ballesteros, the legendary Spanish golfer, was laid to rest at Pedreña Golf Club in Spain, where he began his golfing journey. His ashes were scattered on the course, ensuring he remains forever linked to the sport he revolutionised.
3. Payne Stewart – Pinehurst No. 2
Payne Stewart’s ashes were scattered at Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina, a course where he won his second U.S. Open in 1999. This historic course remains a tribute to his enduring legacy in the game.
4. Ben Hogan – Shady Oaks Country Club
Ben Hogan, one of golf’s greatest players, had his ashes scattered at Shady Oaks Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas. Hogan was closely connected to this course, where he spent countless hours perfecting his game.
5. Bobby Jones – Augusta National Golf Club
The legendary Bobby Jones, co-founder of the Masters Tournament, had his ashes scattered at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia. This course, synonymous with golf greatness, serves as a fitting resting place for Jones.
6. Gene Sarazen – The Bear’s Club
Gene Sarazen, known for his incredible “shot heard ’round the world,” had his ashes scattered at The Bear’s Club in Florida, founded by his close friend Jack Nicklaus. Sarazen’s connection to the game is immortalised at this exclusive course.
7. Old Tom Morris – St Andrews Links
Old Tom Morris, a pioneer of modern golf, had his ashes scattered at the Old Course at St Andrews Links in Scotland. This iconic course, often referred to as the “Home of Golf,” was where Morris made significant contributions to the sport.
8. Peter Thomson – Royal Melbourne Golf Club
Australian golfing great Peter Thomson chose to have his ashes scattered at Royal Melbourne Golf Club, one of the world’s premier courses. Thomson’s five Open Championship victories are celebrated in the golfing world, and his final resting place reflects his illustrious career.
9. Sam Snead – The Greenbrier
Sam Snead, one of golf’s all-time greats, had his ashes scattered at The Greenbrier in West Virginia. Snead was the resort’s golf professional for over three decades, and his connection to the course remains unbroken.
10. Byron Nelson – Preston Trail Golf Club
Byron Nelson, known for his incredible winning streak in 1945, had his ashes scattered at Preston Trail Golf Club in Dallas, Texas. This course, close to his heart, is where Nelson’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of golfers.
These famous golfers found a lasting connection to the courses they loved, making them the final resting places of their ashes. For those considering scattering ashes in a place of significance, a golf course can offer a fitting and meaningful tribute.
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