I have given my first Hittin’ the Links entry much thought and consideration and have decided to dedicate it to those who are responsible for the courses we see on television and read about it books of golfing lore. These men have set the standards, raised the bar, and exceeded people’s expectations with every course they’ve designed.
Hole 1: Donald Ross
You really can’t mention the subject of golf course architecture without mentioning Donald Ross. The Donald Ross society paints a great story of the mans life and work and also provides other Ross related stories. [link]
Hole 2: Alister MacKenzie
It was probably a gift from the golf gods themselves by having Alister MacKenzie only practice medicine for an abbreviated time. Who knows what we would do if there was no Cypress Point, Royal Melbourne, Pasatiempo, and of course, Augusta National. [link]
Hole 3: Old Tom Morris
Often called the father of Golf, Tom Morris was not only responsible for taking care of the grounds at St. Andrews, he also contributed to the layouts and improvements to Prestwick, Royal Dornoch, Muirfield, Carnoustie, Royal County Down, and Cruden Bay. [link]
Hole 4: A.W. Tillinghast
Albert Warren Tillinghast created some awesome originals such as Bethpage, Baltusrol, and Winged Foot along with a host of other originals and re-designs. The Tillinghast association is a great resource for the architecture enthusiast. [link]
Hole 5: Tom Doak
Tom Doak is a minimalist and a crusader who is dedicated to the rebirth of golf architecture. From the looks of Cape Kidnappers, Bandon Dunes, and Quail Crossing, he’s well on his way. [link]
Hole 6: Pete Dye
I would like to thank Mr. Pete Dye personally for creating the tournament courses of the present. His employment of railroad ties, his use of mounding for better vantage points, and of course his design of the island green are the trademarks of this master. His notable courses include Crooked Stick, Whistling Straits, the PGA West’s Stadium Course, Teeth of the Dog, and TPC at Sawgrass. [link]
Hole 7: Robert Trent Jones Jr.
Robert Trent Jones Jr. has designed and worked on a countless number of golf courses around the world. Learning the craft from none other than his father, junior has definitely left a footprint that includes Wailea Golf Club, Thunderhawk Golf Club, The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe, and The Links at Spanish Bay. [link]
Hole 8: Jack Nicklaus
Jack Nicklaus has grown both vertically and horizontally in every aspect of the game. The Golden Bear has become both a symbol of excellence as well as execution. His design firm has created courses all over the globe as well as enhancing a number of established courses. His website is a testament to perfection. Old Works, located in Montana, is my personal favorite. [link]
Hole 9: The Golf Club Atlas
I know, this is not a golf course acrchitect, but this website is an excellent reference guide to anything and everything as it relates to golf course design. From its history to its present to its possible future, Ran Morrissett has put together a great package. [link]