Sam Parks

Samuel McLaughlin Parks Jr. (June 23, 1909 – April 7, 1997) was an American professional golfer. He is best known for winning the U.S. Open in 1935, his only major title. Parks was born in Bellevue, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh. At the age of 25, he used his knowledge of the Oakmont Country Club to secure victory in the U.S. Open. Despite being a relatively recent convert from the amateur ranks, Parks emerged as the only player to navigate Oakmont's challenging bunkers and greens in under 300 strokes. Following his win, Parks represented the U.S. in the Ryder Cup, where he made a crucial birdie putt to tie the match against the reigning British Open champion. Parks had a successful career in golf.