Jul 18, 1968 CE
First Round Action
The opening round saw competitive scoring as players navigated the Pecan Valley course. Several contenders positioned themselves early in what would become a tightly contested championship.
Chronological Storyline (8 Milestones)
Jul 18, 1968 CE
Tournament Opens at Pecan Valley
The 50th PGA Championship began at Pecan Valley Golf Club in San Antonio, Texas. The field featured the world's top golfers competing for the Wanamaker Trophy on the challenging par-72 layout.
Jul 19, 1968 CE
Second Round and Cut
After 36 holes, the field was narrowed as the cut was made. Bob Goalby, Arnold Palmer, and Julius Boros were among the players who positioned themselves near the top of the leaderboard heading into the weekend.
Jul 20, 1968 CE
Third Round Movement
Moving day saw significant leaderboard changes as the contenders jockeyed for position. Julius Boros, the 48-year-old veteran, remained in contention for what would be a historic victory.
Jul 21, 1968 CE
Final Round Ends in Three-Way Tie
The final round concluded with Julius Boros, Arnold Palmer, and Bob Goalby all finishing at 1-under-par 281, forcing an 18-hole playoff. Palmer was seeking his first PGA Championship to complete a career Grand Slam, while Boros aimed for his third major title.
Jul 22, 1968 CE
Palmer's Grand Slam Bid Falls Short
Arnold Palmer's quest to complete the career Grand Slam remained unfulfilled as he finished third in the playoff. The PGA Championship was the only major that eluded Palmer throughout his illustrious career.
By U.S. Coast Guard - U.S. Coast Guard historical photo (also see [1]). Direct image URL [2], Public domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2199960
Jul 22, 1968 CE
Oldest Major Winner Record
At 48 years and 4 months old, Julius Boros became the oldest winner of a major championship, a record that would stand for decades. This was his third major title, having previously won the U.S. Open in 1952 and 1963.
By Camel cigarettes - Stanford School of Medicine, http://tobacco.stanford.edu/tobacco_main/images.php?token2=fm_st150.php&token1=fm_img4521.php&theme_file=fm_mt018.php&theme_name=Smoking%20in%20Sports&subtheme_name=Baseball, Public domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=54598389
Jul 22, 1968 CE
Boros Wins Playoff
In the 18-hole playoff, Julius Boros shot a 69 to defeat Bob Goalby (71) and Arnold Palmer (73). Boros's steady play under pressure secured his third major championship victory.