# Panama Open
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Who / What
The **Panama Open** was a professional golf tournament held annually in Panama from 1938 to 1982. It served as a prestigious event, attracting top players like Sam Snead and Arnold Palmer during its peak years.
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Background & History
Originally established in **1938**, the Panama Open became one of the most prominent golf tournaments in Central America. Initially held independently, it later joined the PGA-sponsored **Caribbean Tour** between **1958 and 1974**. After the Caribbean Tour’s decline, the tournament lapsed for several years before briefly reviving from **1979 to 1982**, marking its final appearances.
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Why Notable
The Panama Open was a showcase of golf talent in Latin America, drawing international stars who competed for regional prestige. Its association with legends like Snead and Palmer elevated its status as a historic tournament. Though short-lived, it remains significant in the history of professional golf in the Caribbean region.
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In the News
While no recent revival has occurred since 1982, the Panama Open’s legacy persists as an iconic event in golf history. Its historical context and association with legendary players continue to spark interest among enthusiasts studying early professional tournaments.
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Key Facts
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