Castle Rock, Colorado, was once home to the unique pro golf tournament known as the International, held at Castle Pines with its signature hand-spun milkshakes and unconventional scoring system approved by golf legend Jack Nicklaus. Despite its charm and stunning mountain views, the International struggled to attract top players, notably missing the presence of Tiger Woods, who only participated twice in 21 years, ultimately leading to the tournament’s demise in 2006.
Now, after a 15-year hiatus, the PGA Tour returns to Castle Pines for the BMW Championship, the second event of the tour’s playoff series. The tournament’s history dates back to oil magnate Jack Vickers teaming up with Nicklaus to create a unique golfing experience at an elevation of 6,300 feet south of Denver. A notable feature of the International was its use of the modified Stableford scoring system, which rewarded aggressive play but often left players confused.
One memorable moment from the International was in 2002 when Rich Beem held a significant lead over Steve Lowery, only to see it drastically reduced by Lowery’s double eagle, adding excitement to the final holes. Despite criticisms of the tournament’s timing just before the PGA Championship, Beem’s success following his International win highlighted the competitive nature of the event.
Castle Pines was renowned for its exceptional treatment of players, with staff members going above and beyond to cater to their preferences, exemplified by the $17,000 Haagen Dazs bill one year due to the popularity of the chocolate milkshakes. Vickers, a golf enthusiast aiming to create a western version of the Masters, established Castle Pines as a top-ranking course in the U.S., attracting renowned players like Mickelson, Love III, and Els.
However, the absence of Tiger Woods from subsequent International tournaments, paired with logistical challenges and unsuccessful attempts to boost player participation with incentive ideas, led to the tournament’s discontinuation in 2006. Vickers, who passed away in 2018, envisioned groundbreaking changes for pro golf that may have been ahead of his time, as seen in his friendship with Greg Norman and his forward-thinking approach to the sport.
While the International may not have achieved enduring success, it remains a testament to Vickers’ innovative spirit and his desire to challenge golf traditions. As the PGA Tour revisits Castle Pines for the BMW Championship, the legacy of the International lives on, reflecting a bold and unconventional chapter in professional golf history.
