The First Open Championship and the Challenge Belt

Willie Park, Sr. wearing the Challenge Belt

The British Open was first played in October of 1860 at Prestwick Golf Club in Scotland. Only professionals were allowed to participate, and the first year held a field of eight players. The 12-hole course was played three times in one day to declare the champion, Willie Park, Sr., who won by two strokes with a total of 174 shots. There was no prize money in the first three Opens, instead, the champion was presented with the Challenge Belt, a red leather belt with a silver buckle.

In 1863, a prize fund of ₤10 was introduced, which was divided between the second-, third-, and fourth-placed professionals. The champion still didn't receive any money, but got to keep the belt for a year. The first cash prize was awarded in 1864 in the amount of ₤6. The champion that year was Old Tom Morris.

This year's prize fund is ₤5.0 million.