The genesis of the 1998 Dayton’s Challenge is a story that begins with a simple question posed to Chris Murray, the tournament director: “Are you kidding? You think we can get Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Gary Player to come and play in our event?” This ambitious thought was the seed that blossomed into the 1998 Dayton’s Challenge, a charity golf event that would become legendary. The idea arose from the success of the 1997 event and a desire to make an even bigger impact.
The Humble Beginnings of a Grand Event
The Dayton’s Challenge wasn’t conceived overnight. Its roots trace back to a conversation between Jim Lehman and the author while watching Tom Lehman compete in the 1994 Masters. Driven by a long-standing commitment to the Children’s Cancer Research Fund (CCRF) and the Pediatric Oncology Department at the University of Minnesota, the author was looking for ways to boost fundraising efforts, and a golf event seemed like a promising avenue.
The initial concept was modest: an exhibition featuring Tom Lehman and a couple of his PGA tour colleagues. “How about we get Tom to play an exhibition with two or three of his tour friends? We can sell sponsorships and tickets and raise some money,” the author proposed. Jim Lehman embraced the idea, recognizing it as a great opportunity for Tom to connect with his alma mater and contribute to a worthy cause.
Tom Lehman enthusiastically supported the initiative and even organized a trial run in his hometown of Alexandria, MN, in the summer of 1994. This ‘test run’ featured Duffy Waldorf and Keith Clearwater alongside Tom, and its resounding success paved the way for a larger event in Minneapolis.
From its inception with Norstan as the initial title sponsor, evolving to Dayton’s Department Stores, the event was characterized by the remarkable generosity of its sponsors. Companies like Dayton’s, Northwest Airlines, and Dockers Clothing, among many others, provided invaluable support through sponsorships, in-kind donations, and unwavering commitment.
Following a successful 1996 event and the transition to Dayton’s as the title sponsor, Chris Murray took on the role of tournament director. Employed by Jim Lehman’s company, Signature Sports, which represented athletes and managed the Dayton’s Challenge, Chris was a young, energetic individual brimming with ideas. While many of his suggestions were quickly dismissed, his bold proposition to bring Palmer, Player, and Nicklaus to the 1998 event proved to be a game-changer.
Securing Golf’s Holy Trinity for the 1998 Challenge
Chris Murray confidently declared, “I’ve already got it figured out as to how we get it done.” His strategy hinged on Tom Lehman’s standing in the golf world. Arnold Palmer had previously requested Tom’s participation in a one-day event in Latrobe, PA. Chris’s plan was for Tom to leverage this connection, requesting Palmer’s presence at the Dayton’s Challenge as a reciprocal favor. Arnold, considered the most approachable of the “Big Three,” was the prime target. With Jim and Tom Lehman fully supporting the idea, the plan was set in motion.
Tom Lehman recounted the pivotal phone call to Arnold Palmer with a sense of nervous excitement. “I was so nervous calling Arnold to ask him,” Tom shared. “I remember exactly where I was – at a Disney Hotel in Orlando on the top floor in a restaurant. I left my party and snuck around the corner to call. I was hoping to break the ice by leaving a voice mail, but Arnold answered the phone.” Tom explained the event, its charitable purpose, and without hesitation, Arnold Palmer agreed to participate. With Palmer secured, convincing Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player became significantly easier, completing the unprecedented trio for the 1998 Golf charity event.
The announcement of Palmer, Nicklaus, and Player’s participation at a press conference in October 1997 at Dayton’s Department store in downtown Minneapolis sent ripples of excitement through the 1998 golf community. Tom Lehman proclaimed it “the greatest field ever assembled for a charity golf event.” The star power was indeed overwhelming. With the legendary headliners confirmed, a cascade of top players expressed their desire to join, resulting in an extraordinary lineup. The field included golf luminaries such as Fred Couples, David Duval (then at his peak), Peter Jacobson, Davis Love, Nick Price (a former world number one), Phil Mickelson, Tom Lehman, and eight other prominent players of the era, making the 1998 golf Dayton’s Challenge a truly exceptional event.
A Unique Tournament Format Attracts Top Golf Talent
Unlike many charity events that paid appearance fees, the Dayton’s Challenge adopted a tournament format with a substantial purse. The winner’s prize was a significant $100,000, with prize money extending down to $25,000 for the last-place player. This structure effectively compensated players for their appearance while introducing a competitive element to the day. This format proved successful in 1997 when US Open Champion Steve Jones’s remarkable 62 secured him the top prize. However, this system also had unexpected outcomes. Duffy Waldorf, a close friend of Tom Lehman and a consistent participant, earned over $500,000 throughout his appearances, far exceeding typical appearance fees. This dual outcome allowed the event to attract top-tier players with a lucrative first prize, while also rewarding those who performed exceptionally well, regardless of their usual fees, adding an exciting dynamic to the 1998 golf competition.
Minnesota golf fans, starved for opportunities to witness top-level professional golf due to the absence of a regular PGA Tour stop in the state, eagerly embraced the Dayton’s Challenge. Ticket sales were consistently strong, capped at 5,000. The inaugural event in Minneapolis in 1995, featuring just one foursome, sold out completely. However, this success exposed a logistical challenge: a large crowd with limited viewing opportunities. Many attendees expressed dissatisfaction, threatening future attendance. The event’s popularity had inadvertently become a problem.
The solution was to expand the player field without increasing ticket sales. From 1995 to 1997, the number of players grew progressively, culminating in an 18-player field for the 1998 golf Dayton’s Challenge. With the expanded field and intense ticket demand, the authorized ticket sales for 1998 were raised to 7,000.
While prominent PGA Tour players like Tom Lehman were a draw, the combined presence of Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Gary Player elevated the event to another level entirely. Sponsorship and ticket sales soared. Demand was so overwhelming that Jim Lehman himself was seen operating a copy machine, frantically printing additional tickets after the event had officially sold out. Estimates placed the actual attendance at around 10,000, highlighting the immense appeal of this 1998 golf spectacle.
Gala Dinner and the Buzz Before the Big Day
The Sunday before the Monday 1998 golf event, a Gala Dinner was held at the new Hilton in downtown Minneapolis, attracting over 500 guests. This elegant evening featured both silent and live auctions. The presence of Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player (despite Player feeling unwell and making a brief appearance) infused the evening with magic.
The allure of high-profile athletes significantly boosted auction participation and bidding prices. Previous live auctions had raised between $100,000 and $200,000. However, the 1998 golf Gala Dinner witnessed two individuals collectively spending over $300,000, demonstrating the heightened excitement and generosity surrounding the event.
Jack Nicklaus’s presence at the dinner was a particular highlight. Dressed impeccably in a suit and tie, Nicklaus exemplified respect for the event, both in his attire and his commitment to attend. The author, having encountered Nicklaus numerous times since 1965, always found him friendly, agreeable, and forthcoming. This consistent professionalism and affability further solidified the respect and admiration for Jack Nicklaus.
However, Sunday also brought a moment of unexpected concern. Dave Podas, the golf professional at Minneapolis Golf Club, the event’s host site, alerted Jim Lehman to a phone call in the pro shop. It was Winnie Palmer, Arnold’s wife. “Jim, Arnold is right here and wants to talk with you,” she said. Arnold Palmer then came on the line. He regretfully informed Jim that he would be unable to attend the dinner that evening but assured him he would arrive in time to play the next day. Jim Lehman graciously accepted the apology, understanding the circumstances and eagerly anticipating Palmer’s arrival for the 1998 golf event itself.
A Perfect Day for Legendary Golf
Monday, June 29th, dawned as a perfect day for golf. The day commenced with a traditional breakfast for sponsors, attended by all players except Arnold Palmer, who was flying in on his private jet, and Gary Player, who was still feeling unwell. It was at this breakfast that the sheer depth of the player field became truly apparent. Players who would have been the center of attention in previous years were now somewhat overshadowed by the towering figures of Nicklaus and Tom Lehman.
This concentration of star power, however, provided unique access to the other accomplished players. The author had the opportunity to converse with Peter Jacobson, who hosted a similar event in Portland, discussing ways to enhance their respective events. Peter Jacobson, known for his engaging personality, later entertained the post-round gathering with his band, Jake Trout and the Flounders.
Nick Price, another world-class player, former world number one for 43 weeks, also found himself somewhat in the background amidst this extraordinary field. Despite his incredible achievements, Price remained approachable and friendly, chatting with the author as the media swarmed around Jack Nicklaus.
Throughout the Dayton’s Challenge’s eight-year run, player conduct was consistently exemplary. Almost every player was accommodating, honoring their commitments, and displaying genuine friendliness. This positive atmosphere was largely attributed to Tom Lehman’s player recruitment efforts. In contrast to some tour events where player inflexibility was common, the schedule set by Jim Lehman for the Dayton’s Challenge was always met with warm acceptance.
Arnold Palmer arrived, greeted by volunteer Bill Kelly, who was tasked with escorting him to the practice area. Bill, setting up a practical joke on Arnold’s caddie, Joe Ryan, informed Palmer that Joe, who had paid $22,000 to caddie, knew nothing about golf. Arnold enthusiastically joined in the prank, asking, “Have you got any dirt on him?” Bill proceeded to share a fabricated story about Joe’s college girlfriend. Upon meeting Joe, Arnold immediately launched into the joke, mentioning the fictitious girlfriend and her supposed opinion of Joe. Joe was momentarily stunned before Bill revealed the prank, and Arnold Palmer’s legendary sense of humor and affability shone brightly.
Standing on the first tee, the author observed the three greatest players of the past 40 years interacting with sponsors and each other. It was somewhat surprising to note their relatively modest physical stature. Arnold, at 68, had lost some height, his hair now white, but his hands and forearms remained remarkably strong. Dressed in a white shirt with his iconic umbrella logo, light blue slacks, and a golf hat, he exuded vibrancy.
Jack, at 58, maintained his height and presence. Arnold and Jack engaged in friendly conversation, while Gary Player, dressed entirely in black, appeared less energetic, a visible sign of his earlier illness.
At each tee, the legendary trio received enthusiastic welcomes, shaking hands with sponsors who had paid for the privilege. Their congeniality was unwavering.
Despite his age, Jack Nicklaus’s golf prowess remained evident. He shot a 69, impressive considering the distractions and constant interactions. Arnold, always giving his all, carded a 74, while Player, visibly unwell, managed a 79. Tom Lehman later remarked on the subdued interaction between Gary and Jack, noting that their usual banter was absent due to Gary’s condition. The camaraderie between Gary and Jack was typically more pronounced than that between Jack and Arnold, although all three were undoubtedly friends. The author observed Jack and Arnold walking down the first fairway, sharing a laugh, while Gary trailed slightly behind.
Regardless of scores, witnessing these giants of golf was a privilege for everyone present at the 1998 golf Dayton’s Challenge. All three legends expressed their gratitude to Tom Lehman as they left the 18th green, heading to their private planes after delivering a memorable performance.
A Champion is Crowned, Charity Wins
At the awards ceremony, the rest of the star-studded field took center stage. Tom Lehman reiterated, “This is the greatest field ever assembled for a charity golf event.” The atmosphere was surreal, surrounded by golf icons like Nick Price, Peter Jacobsen, Lee Janzen, and Phil Mickelson.
Master of Ceremonies Michele Tafoya introduced David Duval, who had won five tournaments in his previous ten starts and was considered the world’s best player at the time. Duval remarked, “This should be an official PGA Tour event. Look at this field,” before proceeding to win the event with a 66, claiming the $100,000 prize. Duval generously donated his additional $10,000 team winnings back to CCRF.
David Duval’s participation in the Dayton’s Challenge held a deeper significance. Later that year, a Sports Illustrated article revealed his personal connection to the cause: he had been a bone marrow donor for his brother, who tragically succumbed to leukemia. This profound personal loss had deeply affected Duval and shaped his public persona. His seemingly reserved demeanor was perhaps a reflection of this heavy burden. His selfless act of bone marrow donation, revealed only later, added another layer of admiration to his character.
The culmination of the 1998 golf Dayton’s Challenge was the presentation of a check for $1,007,644 to the Children’s Cancer Research Fund. At the time, it was possibly the largest sum ever raised by a golf tournament in Minnesota history. Over its eight-year span, the Dayton’s/Marshall Fields Challenge raised $4.2 million for pediatric cancer research. A significant portion of these funds, $2 million, established the Lehman Family Endowed Chair at the University of Minnesota, ensuring continued research in perpetuity.
Tom Lehman affirmed that the establishment of the Lehman Family Chair was one of his most meaningful accomplishments.
The extraordinary field of past and present golf legends assembled for the 1998 golf Dayton’s Challenge set an unparalleled benchmark. While subsequent events were also successful, none could quite replicate the unique excitement and impact of the 1998 tournament.
For the author, being in the company of the three greatest golfers of his generation was a thrilling experience. However, the most profound gratification stemmed from knowing that their collective efforts would contribute to saving the lives of children through the work of In A Life of Golf.
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