The R&A is working with Global Golf Course Architects and National Governing Bodies to provide golf clubs and golf venues with information and guidelines on course design for
SUSTAINABILITY and PLAYABILITY
with a view to ensuring future golf experiences are suitable for golfers, of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.
R&A research has identified a range of golf experiences, from the traditional, formal, golf club experience, to more the relaxed famility orientated experiences, the diagram below shows both examples:
The R&A report provides guidelines for clubs to learn from and decide where they will fit in the future golf eco system.
A copy of the document is below and can be downloaded from the R&A website HERE
Golf Course Architects are aware of the different golfer needs and embarce these when working with their clients and advising Governing Bodies when planning for the future. This article discuss some of the work being carried out today, click HERE to read.
In October 2024, Golf Monthly published an article about new thinking in Golf Course Design, which focuses on the ability of players, not just the distance they hit with each club.
“Its Important that we stop confusing distance with ability – is this model the answer to a fairer Golf Experience?”
Katie Dawkins, PGA Professional, Podcaster and Golf Journalist, introduces a new model, developed by Sharon Eales and Fiona Womack, amateur golfers in the UK, with backgrounds in economics, which looks to create “EQUITY” in the golf experience, for players of all abilities and ages.
In the US, Golf Course Architect, Kari Haug, is leading the way with course playability. Kari’s team is dedicated to designing Golf Courses that are fun and playable for all golfers. To learn more about how Kari works with her clients to create course designs with playable pathways for all golfer abilities, go to her Playable Pathways website – HERE.