In a recent roundtable discussion captured on video by GOLF.com’s InsideGOLF, four renowned golf course architects – Tom Doak, Bill Coore, Andrew Green, and Rob Collins – discussed the topic of golf course rankings. They expressed mixed feelings about the rankings, acknowledging their impact on the industry while also questioning the subjective nature of labeling something as “the best.” Each architect shared their perspective on what makes a golf course list-worthy, unforgettable, and great, shedding light on the various factors that contribute to a course’s reputation.
Bill Coore, known for courses like Sand Hills and Friar’s Head, expressed his reservations about course rankings, describing the difficulty of objectively determining the best golf courses. He believes that rankings are subjective, akin to viewing art, with different perspectives leading to varying opinions on a course’s quality. Andrew Green echoed Coore’s sentiments, emphasizing the many variables that can influence a golfer’s experience and perception of a course beyond its design alone.
Rob Collins, a younger architect with a background in art history, views golf course design as a work of art. He sees the criticism in golf architecture as similar to art criticism, with personal preferences playing a significant role in how courses are ranked. Tom Doak highlighted the cyclical relationship between rankings, architectural tastes, and trends, emphasizing that rankings can influence the public’s perception of certain designers and their projects.
Despite their influence, rankings are acknowledged as a reflection of individual tastes and preferences rather than an objective assessment of a course’s quality. Pine Valley, a perennial top-ranked course, was discussed in the context of its unique characteristics and historical significance. Architects like Green and Collins shared their personal preferences for other courses, such as Sand Hills, over Pine Valley, showcasing the diversity of opinions within the industry.
Choosing a definitive No. 1 course in the country was deemed a challenging task by the architects, who cited multiple courses as deserving of the top spot. Each architect emphasized the importance of balance in interpreting criticism and feedback, acknowledging the impact that rankings can have on their work while also maintaining a sense of perspective. Ultimately, the discussion highlighted the complexity and subjectivity of golf course rankings, underscoring the diverse opinions and preferences within the golf course design community.
