Page 4 - 2023 Kentucky Open Program Book

The History of the Kentucky Open

The Kentucky Men’s & Women’s Open Championships has a rich history. Our

Facebook page has historical pictures of past champions and newspaper articles
about the tournament.

On behalf of the KBPA we would like to thank Mr. Vinnie Atria (1994, 2001 &

2008) and Mr. Roy & Mrs. Alisia Kellow for allowing us access to their

collections of newspaper articles about the tournament.

During the 74-year history of the tournament we have experienced ups and downs.

The tournament has been held in the winter and summer. It has even happened
twice in one calendar year. We have had 10-time champions and people who have

won and never returned. We hope that this history lets you see some names you

haven't seen in a while and reminds you of the great players that came before you.

Below are the All Time Leaders in Tournament Victories
Jim Ewald Jr - 10 Time Champion

1969,1972,1973,1976,1981,1982,1984,1985,1986,1998

Alisia Kellow - 10 Time Champion
1990,1994,1996,1997,1998,1999,2000,2001,2004,2010

Lou Frantz - 7 Time Champion

1950,1952,1955,1958,1960,1963,1965
Cindy Schuble - 6 Time Champion

1978,1981,1982,1983,1984,1988

Jimmy Spalding - 5 Time Champion

1948,1949,1954,1956,1959
Tony Lambert - 5 Time Champion

1999,2004,2006,2007,2010

Theresa Wirztberger - 4 Time Champion
1950,1951,1953,1954

Flo Farwick - 4 Time Champion

1949,1955,1957,1958

Jerry Rickert - 4 Time Champion
1970,1971,1975,1977

Melinda Craig - 4 Time Champion

1993,2003,2008,2009