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Donald Ross: Golf Design Legend
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October 5, 2011 |
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When you think of golfing greats and legends there are likely many people that come to mind. After a recent trip to the Pinehurst area of North Carolina I felt like I neede to learn more about the Donald Ross. Ross loved Pinehurst and when I was there it was magical because I could see why Ross felt so at home in a place such as that. Let’s start in the beginning though.
Donald Ross was born in Scotland in 1872. It was in St. Andrews that Ross became an apprentice to Tom Morris. Eventually in 1899 Ross used all the money that he had saved up to head to the United States. The first job that Ross held in the states was in Watertown, Massachusetts at the Oakley Country Club. Just a year after his arrival though Ross earned the spot of golf professional at the Pinehurst Resort. That is where Ross began designing courses, while still playing the game.
It would happen that Ross would give up playing solely for designing courses, and that is why he is so remembered today. Not for his playing, although he was good, but for his amazing design and architecture. Other players and designers stand in awe of a Donald Ross creation and with good reason. He had the amazing ability to create a hole that was inviting as you approach it, but in the back of the green trouble awaits. Ross is credited with designing or re-designing over 400 golf courses in his career.
Some of the more notable courses designed by Donald Ross are:
Pinehurst No. 2 – This course and resort became the first large golf resort in America thanks to Donald Ross. It was in the place where Ross lived and loved, Pinehurst, North Carolina. Still to this day you can experience Pinehurst golf just like Ross did.
Oak Hill – In Rochester, New York Oak Hill Country Club features two 18-hole facilities designed by Donald Ross. Like Pinehurst No. 2, Oak Hill hosts many PGA Tour Tournaments.
Seminole – The Seminole Golf Club in florida was designed by Ross in 1929. It continues to rank as a top course in the United States.
