1982 Levi's Colored Ball Triumph

First PGA Pro to Win Using a Colored (Orange) Ball

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Kolter KnutsonByKolter Knutson Updated on

On this day, In 1982 Wayne Levi becomes the first PGA pro to win a tournament using a colored (orange) ball.  He made a four-foot putt to save par on the 17th hole, then parred the 18th to win the $325,000 Hawaiian Open golf tournament by a stroke.

On This Day, in 1982 Wayne Levi Becomes the First PGA Pro to Win a Tournament Using a Colored (Orange) Ball

Levi, who started the final round tied for the lead with Andy North, moved in front on the ninth hole with a five-foot eagle putt.

He then fought off challenges by North, Scott Simpson, Ben Crenshaw, and Chip Beck to score his fourth career victory. His closing 70 gave him a 72-hole total of 277, or 11 under.

The victory was worth $58,500.

Levi wins with flying colors in Hawaii
Levi wins with flying colors in Hawaii

History of the Colored Golf Ball

  • In 1982 Wayne Levi was the first PGA pro to win a tournament using a colored (orange) ball in the Hawaiian Open
  • Jerry Pate, the 1976 US Open champion, played with an orange ball made by Wilson in the early 1980s and won the 1982 Players Championship using one.
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