Lot # 55: 1920 Harry Vardon and Ted Ray Dinner Program with Signatures

Category: Autographs

Starting Bid: $200.00

Bids: 11 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed

Lot / Auction Closed




This lot is closed. Bidding is not allowed.

Item was in Auction "2011 Masters Auction",
which ran from 3/22/2011 12:00 PM to
4/10/2011 11:13 AM



The Ryder Cup

 

 

Harry Vardon and Ted Ray Signed 1920 Display

        Two of the biggest names in golf in the early-1900's were Harry Vardon and Ted Ray. They are also famous to Americans as being the two British titans that lost to unknown amateur Francis Ouimet at the 1913 U.S. Open - an event that put U.S. golf on the map. Presented here is one of the finest Harry Vardon-Ted Ray pieces we've ever seen. In 1920, the famous pros were touring the United States - a moneymaking venture that also allowed them to play in the 1920 U.S. Open. Vardon was 50 years old and Ray was 43. So how did the old British pros do at the U.S. Open? Harry Vardon finished tied for 2nd, and Ted Ray won the 1920 U.S. Open. Keep in mind that Harry Vardon only travelled to the United States three times during his playing days, and Ted Ray only did it twice. Yet they each has an U.S. Open victory under their belt.

        The two legends stayed in the United States for a couple months, and a dinner was held in their honor at Fairview Country Club in New York. The New Yorkers likely toasted the great Vardon and the newly-crowned U.S. Open Champion Ted Ray. Presented here is an original program from that historic event. It has been framed with rare autographs of Harry Vardon and Ted Ray, which are amazingly from the same cut. The program itself measure 9"x6" and the framed piece measures 18 1/2" x 15". This extraordinary piece has been authenticated by Green Jacket Auctions and added to our authentication database.