*Angelo Spagnolo, 1986: 66
So, it’s not an “official” score at the hands of a professional, but you can’t talk about the worst score on the 17th and not mention Angelo Spagnolo. He will forever stand for the everyday golfer—or, those who dabble in the 50-plus handicap range—and what could happen when challenging the Island Green. Spagnolo was part of Golf Digest’s ‘America’s Worst Avid Golfer’ competition back in ’86, which was held at TPC Sawgrass.
The Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania native was 104 over par as he stepped up to the 17th tee box, in contention to be crowned un-royal. What followed was a historical display into the watery donation basket. Spagnolo, as you’d almost expect from a 50 handicapper, didn’t have the shot-making ability to land the ball on the green. Again and again, he shot found the drink. His eventually was given range balls, but still—splash! Finally, he was urged to putt around the hazard. He obliged, and 63 shots later, the hole was over. He finished the day 257 over, which was a lock for America’s Worst Avid Golfer.