The Russell C. Palmer Cup will return to its typical May spot on the calendar in 2021 and once again the Country Club of Waterbury will serve as the host. Named for Russell C. Palmer, former CSGA Executive Director (1986-1995) and inductee into the Connecticut Golf Hall of Fame (1997), the Palmer Cup is the Connecticut Stroke Play Championship. Mr. Palmer’s numerous accomplishments include establishing the use of GHIN throughout CSGA member clubs and initiating the purchase of the “Connecticut Golf House” which serves as the home of the CSGA.
In addition to his work with the CSGA, Mr. Palmer was a member of the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, a past president of the International Association of Golf Administrators, and a past president of the Hartford Golf Club. He was also active in the United States Golf Association where he served as a member of the Museum Committee and as a rules official for several United States Amateurs, Opens and Senior Opens.
On May 24-25, the top players in Connecticut will descend on one of the true gems in Connecticut golf. The Donald Ross designed CC of Waterbury opened in 1899 and plays to a par 69. Uniquely the CC of Waterbury features just one par-5, the 484-yard 9th hole.
Players feel the grandeur of the course as they stand perched atop the elevated first tee. Spread below them is the sprawling layout with the 1st, 2nd, 17th, and 18th greens easily visible. Off in the distance, players can view the 6th hole leading them further away from the magnificent clubhouse. The course offers little let up with one of the few breathers coming at the postcard-worthy downhill par-3 12th.
In 2020 Rick Dowling won the title with a spectacular bogey-free back nine 4-under 30 and he will look to defend against what is annually one of the best fields each season.
