The International, held at Castle Pines Golf Club in Castle Rock, Colorado, was a notable golf tournament on the PGA Tour from 1986 to 2006. The event was unique for its Modified Stableford scoring system, which awarded points based on the number of strokes taken at each hole, encouraging aggressive play.
Winners and Runner-Ups:
1986:
– **Winner**: Ken Green
– **Runner-Up**: Mark Calcavecchia
Notable Highlight: The inaugural event saw Ken Green secure victory by outscoring Mark Calcavecchia.
1987:
– **Winner**: John Cook
– **Runner-Up**: Mark O’Meara
Notable Highlight: John Cook edged out Mark O’Meara in a thrilling finish.
1988:
– **Winner**: Steve Pate
– **Runner-Up**: Mike Reid
Notable Highlight: Steve Pate’s win came through a consistent performance over the four days.
1989:
– **Winner**: Greg Norman
– **Runner-Up**: Tim Simpson
Notable Highlight: Greg Norman’s first International victory showcased his aggressive style of play.
1990:
– **Winner**: Jodie Mudd
– **Runner-Up**: Gil Morgan
Notable Highlight: Jodie Mudd emerged victorious with a strong final round.
1991:
– **Winner**: Jose Maria Olazabal
– **Runner-Up**: Tom Lehman
Notable Highlight: Olazabal’s win was marked by his exceptional short game.
1992:
– **Winner**: Brad Faxon
– **Runner-Up**: Craig Stadler
Notable Highlight: Faxon triumphed with remarkable putting skills.
1993:
– **Winner**: Phil Mickelson
– **Runner-Up**: Mark Wiebe
Notable Highlight: A young Phil Mickelson secured his first win at The International.
1994:
– **Winner**: Steve Lowery
– **Runner-Up**: Rick Fehr
Notable Highlight: Lowery clinched the title with a steady performance under pressure.
1995:
– **Winner**: Lee Janzen
– **Runner-Up**: Ernie Els
Notable Highlight: Janzen’s victory came after a tight contest with Ernie Els.
1996:
– **Winner**: Clarence Rose
– **Runner-Up**: Brad Faxon
Notable Highlight: Clarence Rose’s win was highlighted by consistent play throughout the tournament.
1997:
– **Winner**: Stewart Cink
– **Runner-Up**: Jeff Maggert
Notable Highlight: Cink’s breakthrough win was a testament to his emerging talent.
1998:
– **Winner**: Vijay Singh
– **Runner-Up**: Phil Mickelson
Notable Highlight: Singh’s first win at The International demonstrated his dominance.
1999:
– **Winner**: David Toms
– **Runner-Up**: Stuart Appleby
Notable Highlight: Toms edged out Appleby in a closely contested final round.
2000:
– **Winner**: Ernie Els
– **Runner-Up**: Phil Mickelson
Notable Highlight: Els secured his first International win with solid play throughout.
2001:
– **Winner**: Tom Pernice Jr.
– **Runner-Up**: Carl Paulson
Notable Highlight: Pernice Jr.’s victory was marked by a strong finish.
2002:
– **Winner**: Rich Beem
– **Runner-Up**: Steve Lowery
Notable Highlight: Beem’s victory was a prelude to his later success at the PGA Championship.
2003:
– **Winner**: Davis Love III
– **Runner-Up**: Retief Goosen
Notable Highlight: Love III’s win came through a powerful final round.
2004:
– **Winner**: Rod Pampling
– **Runner-Up**: Alex Cejka
Notable Highlight: Pampling’s victory was noted for his resilience under pressure.
2005:
– **Winner**: Retief Goosen
– **Runner-Up**: Brandt Jobe
Notable Highlight: Goosen’s win was characterized by his composed play.
2006:
– **Winner**: Dean Wilson
– **Runner-Up**: Tom Lehman
Notable Highlight: Wilson’s victory came after a strong final day performance.
Notable Highlights and Legacy:
– **Unique Scoring System**: The Modified Stableford scoring encouraged aggressive and entertaining play, setting The International apart from other PGA Tour events.
– **Course Challenges**: Castle Pines’ high elevation and challenging layout provided a unique test for players.
– **Memorable Moments**: The tournament saw many dramatic finishes and emerging talents, contributing to its reputation as a fan favorite.
Here are the top five highlights:
- 1986 – First Tournament and Unique Format:
The inaugural International was notable for introducing a unique scoring system called the Modified Stableford, which awarded points based on the score for each hole rather than the traditional stroke play. This system added excitement and encouraged aggressive play.
- 1990 – Steve Jones Wins in a Playoff:
Steve Jones claimed victory in 1990 after a dramatic playoff against Mark Calcavecchia. This win was significant as Jones went on to have a successful career, including winning the U.S. Open in 1996.
- 1995 – Phil Mickelson’s Dominance:
Phil Mickelson showcased his exceptional talent by winning the 1993 and 1997 tournaments. His 1997 victory was particularly notable as he set a tournament record for points under the Modified Stableford system, demonstrating his aggressive and risk-taking style of play.
- 2004 – Retief Goosen’s Spectacular Performance:
Retief Goosen delivered a remarkable performance in 2004, finishing with 44 points, the second-highest total in the tournament’s history. His consistent play and ability to accumulate points highlighted his skill and poise under the unique scoring system.
- 2006 – Dean Wilson’s Memorable Win:
The final International tournament in 2006 saw Dean Wilson secure his first PGA Tour victory. His win was memorable not only because it was his first but also because it marked the end of an era for the tournament at Castle Pines.
These highlights capture the essence and excitement of the International golf tournament, making it a beloved event for fans and players alike.
Despite its popularity, The International was discontinued after 2006 due to sponsorship and scheduling issues. Its legacy, however, remains a cherished part of golf history.