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History |
In The Beginning:
Founded in 1896 as the Kennebunkport Golf Club, Cape Arundel Golf Club was
created by summer residents and golf enthusiasts who wanted to bring their love of the
game home. With only 74 other golf clubs in the United States, Cape Arundel has played
an invaluable role in Kennebunkport’s history and life.
The Old Man, Walter Travis:
By the early twenties it was apparent that the original course had "outlived its
usefulness. "In an effort to create a course that provided not only enjoyment for the
regulars, but also a bit of a challenge to golfers with any skill, it was decided that a new course was in order. The architectural skills of US and British Amateur Champion, Walter
J. Travis, were secured to produce the new links style layout. Every hole was planned
carefully by Travis and promised to provide first class golf, beauty, as well as difficulty.
From the natural hazards and beautifully contoured greens to the perfectly placed bunkers
and strategic layout, the new course seemingly demanded the finest kind of golf.
The Walker Cup Connection:
The Walker Cup is contested biennially in odd numbered
years between teams comprising the leading amateur golfers
of the United States and Great Britain and Ireland. The
event, officially called the Walker Cup Match, is co-organized
by the R&A and the United States Golf Association
and is named in honor of George Herbert Walker (grandfather
and namesake of the former President of the United States,
George H. W. Bush, and great-grandfather of current President
George W. Bush, who was president of the USGA in 1920
when the series was initiated. G.H. 'Bert' Walker, III
is an active member of the Club.
Play where they play:
Presidents Nixon, G.H.W.Bush, Clinton, and G.W. Bush have
all teed it up, as well legends: Francis Ouimet, Sam Snead,
Arnold Palmer, Fred Couples, Davis Love, Justin Leonard,
Phil Mickelson, David Toms, Tim Finchem, Babe Ruth, Louis
Tiant, Roger Clemens, UK's Prince Andrew, Jim Nantz, and
Rush Limbaugh. Former PGA Tour Commissioner, Deane Beman,
is a member and plays regularly throughout the summer.
The Course Record:
On October 2nd, 2006, Phil Mickelson captured the course record, shooting a 9 under 60 against a par of 69. It is interesting to note that Prescott Bush, father of President Bush (41), once held that honor. |
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Presidents George Bush and Bill Clinton watch Head Pro Ken Raynor |
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Phil Mickleson on the practice tee
Oct. 2, 2006 |
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