David Kinnell

Background

Kinnell was born in Leven, Fife, Scotland, in 1879.

Education

His best performance came in the 1908 Open Championship when he finished tied for fifth place.

Career

Kinnell had two top-10 finishes in the Open Championship. He also had a good performance in the 1898 Open Championship, finishing in the sixth position. He served as the head professional at Leven Thistle Golf Club.

He also designed the 9-hole seaside portion of the Girvan Golf Club.

1898 Open Championship

The 1898 Open Championship was held 8–9 June at Prestwick Golf Club in Prestwick, South Ayrshire, Scotland. According to newspaper accounts at the time, there were a number of "hopeless competitors" and "second-class golfers" entering the Open, so a cut was introduced for the first time to reduce the number of players on the final day.

All entries played 36 holes on the first day with all those within 19 strokes of the leader making the cut and playing 36 holes on the final day, with the additional provision that the final day"s field had to contain at least 32 professionals. Kinnell was not one of the "hopeless competitors" and proved his skill by shooting 80-77-79-80=316 and finished in sixth place.

He took home £10 in prize money.

1908 Open Championship

The 1908 Open Championship was held 18–19 June and was also played at Prestwick Golf Club. Kinnell carded rounds of 75-73-80-78=306 and tied for fifth place with Harry Vardon. Retirement

Kinnell retired at age 57 having been professional at Street Nicholas for 34 years.

He then became the caretaker of the Prestwick putting green.

Kinnell died in January 1951 in Scotland. He is best remembered for having two top-10 finishes in the Open Championship.

Achievements

• He won £7 10s in prize money.