#30: Launches Arnold Palmer Cup
On this day in 1997, one of the most prestigious tournaments in college golf handed out its first trophy when the inaugural Arnold Palmer Cup was awarded to team USA after they defeated Great Britain & Ireland 19–5.
Today the Ryder Cup-style event puts the USA against the rest of the world, and since 2018 it has been co-ed, with men and women competing side-by-side as partners. Supported by Rolex and live-streamed on GOLF Channel for the first time in 2019, the Arnold Palmer Cup is more than just a tournament. It is part of the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation’s mission to promote youth character development, modeling the values embodied by Arnold Palmer and supporting the growth of amateur/collegiate golf. With over 100 alumni who have gone on to earn cards on the PGA, European and LPGA Tours, and visiting some of golf’s finest venues, the Arnold Palmer Cup is quickly becoming one of the game’s most treasured amateur events.