Venturi In The Hall of Fame

Ken Venturi, best known by this generation for his 35 years broadcasting sports for CBS will enter the World Golf Hall of Fame this spring.

Venturi, 81, was a solid PGA Tour member, with 14 victories. He is probably best known for his 1964 US Open win at Congressional where, in dangerously hot conditions, he staggered his way to the finish line on the 36 hole final day. Venturi also was a solid amateur, coming in second in the 1956 Masters. He actually started with a four shot lead on the final day, falling behind Jack Burke after a back nine collapse. Along with Charles Coe (1961), that’s still the best amateur finish at Augusta.

Following carpal tunnel syndrome surgery in 1964, Venturi’s playing career ended in 1967.

Best Finishes In Majors:
Masters Tournament: 2nd: 1956. 1960
U.S. Open: Won: 1964
The Open Championship: CUT: 1973
PGA Championship: T5: 1959, 1964

Just as cool: he was one of Frank Sinatra’s best friends.

Congratulations, Mr. Venturi.