I wanted to let this run before weighing in.The first choice would be
Brian Curley. I think the recent events in China are far bigger deal than the coverage suggests. I think the second shoe just dropped for architecture and we will see another round of designers disappear and even greater competition for the remaining work. I think he could provide critical insight on what has just happened and what his outlook is for the future. Others could include
Dana Fry, Lee Schmidt ...
My second choice is
Mike Davis. I think we need to hear from someone on the cutting edge on the drive for sustainability. I don’t want the marketing agenda, I want somebody who’s walking the walk to reduce inputs and water consumption through active design strategies. If they went this route, they might choose RTJ Jr. (name recognition) but I’d rather see someone like
Andy Staples. But Mike Davis is still the best one to drive the message because of his position of importance in golf.
My third choice would be
Martin Hawtree. Lifetime in design, worked throughout the world, high profile renovations, high profile design work, he’s seen it all and done it all. This would provide a perspective of work in other regions, the Old Course renovation makes an interesting topic and provides him with an ideal medium to answer his critics. Alternatives would include
Martin Ebbert and Bob Harrison.
My forth would be
Richard Mandell. My reasoning is simple, it’s important to recognize that not everything needs to be a World Top 100 to be important. The architecture week needs a “step back moment” where affordable and accessible golf be given its moment. Frankly, these projects are far more important to “golf” than the courses that intelligentsia spend debating the merits of. It’s chance for someone to have a conversation of how and why communities should still invest in their golf facilities. Other possibilities include people like
Bill Amick, Jim Blaukovich, Ed Beidel, etc, etc. (there are too many designers who have always thought of accessibility and fun before personal accolades)
My final “group” is a suggested panel,
Alice Dye, Vicki Martz, Jan Beljan and Cynthia Dye McGarey. These are some amazing trail blazing women who have all had to build careers and portfolios in a sport that can still be sexist. It would be nice for a young woman interested in golf design to go to that interview and be inspired to push forward with that career choice.
What I don’t want is more of Tom, Gil and Bill. Great guys, fantastic designers, but there’s so much more to talk about. Have them back the following year when each opens a significant course.
Golf course architecture could use a few more voices and some breadth to the discussion. p.s ... to those who suggested me - thanks - very kind of you - but I doubt Matt has even heard my name
