As an avid golfer, you might be interested in the history and traditions of the sport. And if you’re a fan of Georgia Hall, you might have noticed that she often wears a flat cap during her rounds. But do you know the story behind this accessory? In fact, it’s a tribute to one of the legends of golf: Jim Barnes.
Jim Barnes was born in Lelant, a small town in Cornwall, England. He started playing golf at a young age and quickly became a skilled player. He turned professional in 1906 and soon after, he moved to the United States to pursue his career. Over the next two decades, he would establish himself as one of the best golfers in the world.
Barnes is perhaps best known for his impressive record in major championships. He won the PGA Championship twice, in 1916 and 1919, and the U.S. Open in 1921. He also won the Open Championship in 1925, making him one of the few players to have won all four major championships in his career.
Despite his success in the United States, Barnes never forgot his roots in Cornwall. He remained a member of West Cornwall Golf Club, where he had honed his skills as a young player. The club, which was founded in 1889, is one of the oldest in England and is located in the town of St. Just.
Georgia Hall, who also hails from Cornwall, shares a connection with Barnes beyond their shared love of golf. Hall grew up playing at West Cornwall Golf Club and, like Barnes, she has gone on to achieve great things in the sport. She won the British Women’s Open in 2018 and has represented Europe in the Solheim Cup twice.
To honor Barnes and his legacy, Hall often wears a flat cap during her rounds. The style of hat was popular during Barnes’ era and has become associated with him over time. It’s a small but meaningful tribute to a golfer who helped pave the way for future generations of players.
In addition to his accomplishments on the course, Barnes is also remembered for his sportsmanship and character. He was known for his generosity and kindness in and out of competition. In 1926, he was involved in a controversy during the Open Championship when he had to play against amateur golfer Roger Wethered. Barnes went out of his way to make sure Wethered didn’t feel intimidated by his professional opponent and even offered him advice during the match.
Overall, Jim Barnes is a golfing legend who deserves to be remembered and celebrated. By wearing a flat cap in his honor, Georgia Hall is helping to keep his legacy alive and to inspire future generations of golfers. If you’re ever in Cornwall, be sure to visit West Cornwall Golf Club and pay tribute to one of the greats of the game.
