The 1961 PGA Championship was the 44th edition of the tournament, held at Llanerch Country Club in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania. Jerry Barber, age 45, won his first major championship by defeating Don January in an 18-hole playoff, becoming the oldest first-time major winner at the time.
The 1961 PGA Championship began at Llanerch Country Club in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania. This was the first time the club hosted a major championship. The tournament was played in stroke play format, which had been adopted by the PGA of America in 1958.
After two rounds of play, the field was narrowed. Don January, a young Texan, was among the leaders heading into the weekend. Jerry Barber, a 45-year-old veteran, remained within striking distance of the lead.
Don January took the lead after the third round, positioning himself as the favorite heading into the final day. Jerry Barber trailed by several strokes but remained in contention. January was seeking his first major championship title.
Jerry Barber shot a final-round 67, including a dramatic long putt on the 72nd hole, to erase January's lead and force an 18-hole playoff. Barber's clutch putting down the stretch was the defining moment of the round. At age 45, Barber was attempting to become the oldest first-time major champion in golf history.
Jerry Barber defeated Don January in an 18-hole playoff, shooting 67 to January's 68 to win by one stroke. The victory made Barber, at 45 years old, the oldest first-time major champion in golf history at the time. It was the only major championship of Barber's career.
Don January's playoff loss was a heartbreaking finish for the young Texan, but he would go on to have a distinguished career, winning the 1967 PGA Championship at Columbine Country Club. January later became one of the most successful players on the Senior PGA Tour.
Barber's victory at the 1961 PGA Championship was notable not only for his age but also because he had overcome significant adversity throughout his career, including a serious car accident years earlier. His win at Llanerch Country Club cemented his legacy as one of golf's most perseverant competitors.