This Day in Golf History: July 16

It’s been 12 years already since Australian Adam Scott, he of the picture-perfect swing, won the Masters for his first major victory. He is running out of prime years to win more but nearly got the job done for major No. 2 at this year’s U.S. Open at Oakmont.. On this date he celebrates his 45th birthday. Flawless as a ball striker, Scott has been held back in his career with inconsistent putting. Perhaps the slower greens at the Open Championship this week at Royal Portrush will help him. One of the most astounding results in golf history occurred on this date in 1938 when diminutive 1934 winner Paul Runyan beat the mighty Sam Snead, 8 and 7, in the PGA Championship final at Shawnee Country Club.