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| '83 Open at Oakmont -
one of Seve's best |
| By
Western Pennsylvania Golf Association |
| Posted May 10, 2011 |
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Among five major titles in the resume of Seve
Ballesteros--no US Opens, but three British Opens and two
Masters. One of his best finishes in the US Open was 1983 at
Oakmont. He shot 69-74-69-74--286, tying Calvin Peete for
fourth, six strokes behind Larry Nelson. His check--just
under $18,000.
This began his best run in America's national championship
in odd numbered years. He finished t-5 at Oakland Hills,
Bloomfield Hills, MI, in 1985, with Lanny Wadkins and Payne
Stewart, two strokes behind Andy North, then 3rd in 1987 at
The Olympic Club, San Francisco, five behind Scott Simpson.
Longer rough at Opens and PGA Championships, as contrasted
to The Masters and British Opens may have had something to
do with his wins at two sites and absence of victories at
the others. Spectacular recoveries are more difficult at US
Opens and PGA's. I attended the 1983 Open at Oakmont, and
recall that Ballesteros drew large galleries as one of the
game's most exciting players.
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