This is Steve Benton with Tales from the Tour. In the 1970’s, professional golfers played a “wound” ball with a “Balata” cover. These balls went “of out of round” very quickly and easily cut. It was common for professionals to change to a new ball every 2 or 3 holes. And that’s why this tale is so amazing.
On June 10, 1977 Al Geiberger was playing in the Memphis Classic. After “birdying” 2 of his first 3 holes, he decided to continue playing with the same ball. Al “par’d” the next 2 holes followed by 4 “birdies” and an “eagle”. He became the first player ever to shoot a 59 in a PGA Tour event. And he did so playing with the same ball.