U.S. Open Trophy Makes Pittsburgh Appearance
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Like a magnet, the 160-year-old U.S. Open trophy is making the rounds in Pittsburgh three months ahead of the 2016 Open at Oakmont, and fans just want to get close and be seen in its presence.
Its rich history glimmers from its shining silver, drawing attention like the queen at a ball.
"Anywhere I bring this trophy, people aren't looking at me with the white gloves, they're looking at this beautiful trophy that goes all the way back to 1895," USGA trophy historian Michael Trostel said.
It drew the gazes and appreciation of the Penguins Thursday when the U.S. Open trophy dropped by their locker room. Their cup is a bit bigger, but this one carries a lot of history and mystique.
"You can't touch the trophy and the superstition is if someone does touch it, then they can't win it," Trostel said, "so no matter what level golfer you are, no one wants to touch it, just in case."
Jeff Pennetti of South Fayette and Roger Lamarre from Missouri had to get their pictures taken with it.
"It's just the history behind the U.S. Open trophy is unbelievable," Pennetti said. "I went to the tournament in 2007, and I'm a big golfer as well."
"It's a huge honor," Lamarre said. "I'm a golfer myself and not good enough to ever compete for this, but just respect the game of golf. I'm just a big fan."
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The trophy is in Pittsburgh to promote the U.S. Open at Oakmont in June, where work is underway to host the USGA's trademark event. USGA Open championship manager Charlie Howe says they've actually reduced the number of tickets available by 5,000 since the Open was here 9 years ago.
"It was perceived there were too many people on the golf course here, so that was kind of something we took to heart," Howe said.
While some golfers were on the historic course Thursday, the grounds crew was hard at work.
"It looks fantastic … we're off to a good start," Howe said.
Howe was meeting with public safety leaders Thursday. Five thousand volunteers have been chosen, vender facilities are under construction, and earth is moving where the merchandise tent will replace the current gift shop, offering everything from onesies on up.
Meanwhile, the trophy will be available on the concourse at CONSOL Energy Center Sunday for your trophy selfie. But remember – hands off.
"If they try to touch it, it's not going to be good," Trostel said.
