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In June of 1948, Ben Hogan won his first major tournament, the U.S. Open.
In September of 1948, he came to San Jose Country Club at the invitation of
the Club's Head Professional, Eddie Duino Jr., to conduct a clinic and play
an exhibition match.
Hogan, in his first round at San Jose Country Club, shot 64 (par is 70),
having never seen the course. During that round, Hogan never had his ball
more than a flag stick's length from the hole, hitting all 18 greens in
regulation.
Shortly after his play at San Jose Country Club, where this photo was taken,
Hogan was in the car accident that almost ended his career. While driving
with his wife Valerie, a bus on the wrong side of the road hit his car head
on. To protect his wife, Hogan through his body in front of her. She was
unhurt.
This act saved his wife but Hogan was badly injured, suffering a broken
pelvis, broken legs, and so many other injuries that doctors told him he
would never be able to play golf again.
Proving them wrong, Hogan rehabilitated himself and went on to have what is
arguably the best year in golf. In 1953, he won the Masters, the U.S. Open,
and the British Open (at that time, the British Open and the PGA tournament
were played at the same time.)
Eddie Duino Jr. went on to be named the "PGA Pro of the Year" for the entire
United States. Many believe that Eddie Duino was the most popular - and
best loved - Head Professional of all time.
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