The Memorial Milkshake: All You Need to Know About The Iconic Memorial Tournament Staple

People in the golf community are well-aware of the classic egg salad sandwich or pimento cheese sandwich that’s served at Augusta National. These popular snacks are almost as famous as the coveted Masters tournament that takes place at the golf course every year.

Now, let’s turn our attention to another unique food item that is a huge favorite of PGA Tour golfers – the renowned Memorial Milkshake. So, how did this frothy drink become a staple at Muirfield Village? When was it first introduced? Let’s dive in to find out more!

How did the Memorial milkshake tradition begin at Muirfield?

It was always Jack Nicklaus’ goal to bring elite golf to his hometown of Columbus, Ohio. After the 18-time major winner founded the iconic Muirfield Village Golf Club, his dream steadily started to take shape. Eventually, the first edition of the Memorial Tournament was held in 1976. It, therefore, goes without saying that the tournament is extremely close to the Golden Bear‘s heart. In fact, the name of the event comes from Nicklaus’ wish to theme it around an individual or individuals, living or deceased, who have done significant work to boost the game of golf.

Similarly, the much-loved milkshake is also intrinsically tied with the founder himself. When Nicklaus was growing up in Columbus, he had worked in Soda Jerk at one point. There, you guessed it, he was in charge of making milkshakes. When the Muirfield Village Golf Club came into being in 1974, the milkshake also came along!

Moreover, the golfing great is also known for his affinity towards sweet dishes. He even has his own line of ice cream!

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Now, the sweet delight is a huge hit with PGA Tour golfers! In 2019, when PGA Tour’s Joel Dahmen appeared at Muirfield to compete, the first thing he did was get himself a milkshake. “I had watched this tournament for 15, 20 years and you’d hear about the milkshakes,” Dahmen had said. “And when you get here that’s what you’re supposed to do, go and get a milkshake.”

The most popular milkshake at Muirfield

Golf is known for its arduous nature, which is why it shouldn’t come as any surprise that PGA Tour pros love to indulge in the sweet treat when they are at Muirfield. In 2020, golfers Tony Finau and Jon Rahm were spotted celebrating with milkshakes after they emerged winner at a match-play exhibition against Ian Poulter and Graeme McDowell. While the famous drink is generally served during the Memorial event, Collin Morikawa got lucky in 2020.  After his win at the Workday Charity Open that year, the golfer was also given the famed milkshake along with his trophy and a $1.12 million check! “It was the best-tasting milkshake I’ve ever had,” he told The Post. “They had it right behind my trophy.”

But, which milkshake flavor is the most popular? Per Nicholas LaRocca, the general manager of the club, the “Buckeye” is the most popular flavor. Morikawa approved the flavor as well after he was served it following his win. The highly-desired milkshake combines chocolate and peanut butter flavors. Which one does Memorial Tournament host Jack Nicklaus enjoy most? Apparently, the much-decorated legend is a fan of the vanilla malt flavor!

As for the recipe, well, the makers of the milkshake at Muirfield keep the secret closely guarded.

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The Memorial Milkshake is just one of the things that truly sets the prestigious Memorial Tournament apart. What other unique snacks or notable food items can you think of that’s closely associated with golf? Let us know in the comments below.