About
Pete Oakley was the first open qualifier to win the Senior British Open, achieving this historic victory at Royal Portrush in 2004.
Pete Oakley, born June 28, 1949, in Panama City, Florida, is an American professional golfer renowned both for his playing career and contributions to golf course design. Oakley began golf at age 11, encouraged by his mother, and went on to become a long-time PGA club professional in the Philadelphia-Delaware region, claiming multiple regional titles including six Delaware State Opens and six Shawnee Opens. Oakley's professional highlight was winning the 2004 Senior British Open at Royal Portrush as an open qualifier, a rare feat in senior golf. He also competed on the European Senior Tour, finishing as Rookie of the Year in 2004 and second in the Order of Merit. Expanding into golf architecture, Oakley co-designed The Rookery Golf Club in Milton, Delaware, which opened in 2001. His dual legacy as both champion golfer and respected golf course architect has earned him distinction in the sport.
