Golf has long been considered a man’s game, with its origins dating back to 15th century Scotland. However, over the years, women have made significant strides in the sport, breaking down barriers and shattering stereotypes. But have they ever designed a golf course? In this intriguing exploration, we delve into the history of women in golf course design and examine the challenges they have faced, as well as their successes and achievements. From Alice Dye to Jan Bel Jan, we uncover the inspiring stories of these trailblazing women who have left their mark on the golfing world. So, let’s tee off and discover the answer to this fascinating question: has a woman ever designed a golf course?

The Origins of Golf Course Design

Early Golf Course Architects

In the early days of golf course design, the profession was dominated by men. Some of the most prominent early golf course architects were Tom Morris Sr. and Jr., who designed and redesigned numerous courses in Scotland and England in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Other notable early architects include Harry S. Colt, Charles B. Macdonald, and Alister MacKenzie, who each made significant contributions to the development of golf course design. These architects were instrumental in shaping the sport of golf and establishing many of the principles and techniques that are still used today. However, it would be several decades before a woman would make her mark on the field of golf course design.

The Evolution of Golf Course Design

The origins of golf course design can be traced back to the early 19th century, when the first formal golf courses were established in Scotland. These early courses were designed by individuals who were also golfers, and they were typically laid out on existing land, such as parks or pastures.

As the popularity of golf grew, so did the demand for more diverse and challenging courses. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a number of golf course architects emerged, many of whom were trained in landscape architecture or civil engineering. These architects began to experiment with different design elements, such as hazards, bunkers, and greens, in order to create more interesting and challenging courses.

One of the most influential golf course architects of this period was Donald Ross, who designed over 400 courses in the United States and Canada. Ross was known for his innovative use of terrain and his emphasis on strategic play, and his designs continue to influence golf course architecture today.

In the mid-20th century, a new generation of golf course architects emerged, including Robert Trent Jones and Alister MacKenzie. These architects were known for their use of modern engineering techniques and their emphasis on creating courses that were both challenging and aesthetically pleasing.

Today, golf course design is a highly specialized field, with a wide range of architects and designers working to create courses that are both technically challenging and visually stunning. While women have made significant strides in the field of golf in recent years, there are still few women who have designed golf courses at the professional level.

Barriers to Women in Golf Course Design

Gender Stereotypes in the Golf Industry

Golf has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated sport, and this mentality has carried over into the golf course design industry. For years, the golf industry has been plagued by gender stereotypes that have created barriers for women looking to break into the field.

One of the biggest stereotypes is that golf is a man’s game, and as such, women are not capable of designing golf courses. This notion has led to a lack of opportunities for women in the industry, as well as a lack of support and resources.

Another stereotype is that women are not as knowledgeable about golf as men, and therefore, cannot design courses that are challenging and enjoyable for both men and women. This has led to a perception that women-designed courses are not as good as those designed by men.

These stereotypes have been perpetuated by the media, as well as by the golf industry itself. For example, major golf publications have historically featured very few women on their covers or in their articles, further reinforcing the idea that golf is a man’s game.

Furthermore, many golf courses have been designed with only men in mind, with narrow fairways and long roughs that make the game even more challenging for women. This has led to a perception that women are not skilled enough to play the game, and that they do not belong on the same courses as men.

Despite these challenges, there have been a few women who have managed to break through the barriers and make a name for themselves in the golf course design industry. However, their success has been limited, and they have had to work harder and smarter to prove themselves in a male-dominated field.

The Lack of Opportunities for Women in Golf Course Design

Despite the increasing number of women participating in golf, the field of golf course design remains predominantly male-dominated. There are several reasons why women face significant barriers in pursuing a career in golf course design.

• Limited access to education and training: While there are some golf course design programs available, they are often located in areas that are difficult for women to access, such as rural or remote locations. Furthermore, these programs can be expensive and time-consuming, making it difficult for women to balance work and family responsibilities with the demands of the program.
• Lack of mentorship and networking opportunities: Golf course design is a highly specialized field, and without access to mentors and networking opportunities, it can be difficult for women to gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the industry. This lack of support can make it challenging for women to build the necessary experience and reputation to establish themselves as golf course designers.
• Gender bias and discrimination: Unfortunately, gender bias and discrimination continue to be prevalent in many industries, including golf course design. Women may face challenges in gaining the respect and recognition they deserve, and may be subject to unfair criticism or discrimination based on their gender.
• Cultural attitudes towards women in leadership roles: Despite the growing number of women in leadership positions in various industries, there are still cultural attitudes that discourage women from pursuing careers in traditionally male-dominated fields like golf course design. Women may face pressure from family members or society to pursue more “traditional” career paths, making it difficult for them to break into the golf course design industry.

Overall, the lack of opportunities for women in golf course design is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. By providing greater access to education and training, creating mentorship and networking opportunities, and actively working to combat gender bias and discrimination, we can help break down the barriers that prevent women from pursuing careers in golf course design.

The Impact of Societal Expectations on Women in Golf Course Design

Golf course design is a field that has been traditionally dominated by men. Despite the increasing number of women who are interested in golf and the growing number of women golfers, there are still significant barriers that prevent women from entering the field of golf course design. One of the most significant barriers is the impact of societal expectations on women in golf course design.

Traditionally, society has had certain expectations of women’s roles and responsibilities, which have often limited their opportunities in fields like golf course design. Women have historically been expected to be homemakers and caregivers, which has left little room for pursuing careers in traditionally male-dominated fields like golf course design. This has led to a lack of representation of women in golf course design, as well as a lack of opportunities for women to enter the field.

Furthermore, the perception that golf is a “man’s sport” has also contributed to the lack of opportunities for women in golf course design. This perception has led to a bias in the industry, where men are more likely to be given the opportunity to design golf courses, while women are often relegated to support roles or are not considered at all.

However, it is important to note that societal expectations are changing, and more women are beginning to challenge these expectations and pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields like golf course design. There are now more opportunities for women to enter the field, and there are also more female golf course designers who are breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of women in golf course design.

In conclusion, the impact of societal expectations on women in golf course design has been significant, but there is a growing movement of women who are challenging these expectations and pursuing careers in golf course design. As more women enter the field, the barriers to entry will continue to be broken down, and more opportunities will become available for women to excel in this exciting and rewarding field.

Women Pioneers in Golf Course Design

Alice Dye

Alice Dye, a pioneering woman in the field of golf course design, was born in 1927 in New Jersey, USA. She studied landscape architecture at Cornell University, where she met her future husband, Pete Dye. The couple went on to become one of the most renowned and innovative golf course design duos in history.

Throughout her career, Alice Dye played a crucial role in her husband’s design projects, contributing her own ideas and expertise. Together, they designed over 150 golf courses around the world, with their most famous projects including the PGA West in California, TPC Sawgrass in Florida, and the Stadium Course at PGA West.

One of Alice Dye’s most notable achievements was her involvement in the design of the 18th hole at the PGA West. The hole, known as “The Stadium,” features a 16,000-seat amphitheater that allows spectators to watch golfers compete from close range. The design of this hole was groundbreaking, as it transformed the traditional golf course design by incorporating a stadium-like atmosphere.

Despite the challenges and obstacles she faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry, Alice Dye continued to push boundaries and make significant contributions to the world of golf course design. Her work has left a lasting impact on the sport and inspired future generations of women to pursue careers in golf course design.

Alison Nicholls

Alison Nicholls is a renowned golf course architect who has made significant contributions to the field of golf course design. She is widely recognized as one of the few women to have broken through the gender barrier in this traditionally male-dominated profession.

Alison Nicholls’ career in golf course design began in the early 1990s, when she worked as an intern for the prestigious golf course architectural firm of Tom Doak. During her tenure with Doak, Nicholls gained valuable experience and developed a keen eye for design, which eventually led her to start her own firm in 2000.

One of Nicholls’ most notable projects is the redesign of the 18th hole at the Pine Valley Golf Club in New Jersey. This hole is widely regarded as one of the most challenging and iconic holes in golf, and Nicholls’ redesign was met with critical acclaim. Her work at Pine Valley demonstrated her ability to respect the traditions of the game while also bringing a fresh perspective to the design process.

Nicholls has also been involved in the design of several other high-profile golf courses, including the revamp of the 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass and the creation of the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island. Her work has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including the 2018 Golf Inc. Women in Golf honoree.

Despite facing numerous challenges as a woman in a male-dominated industry, Nicholls has persevered and has become a respected figure in the world of golf course design. Her contributions to the field have helped to break down barriers and pave the way for future generations of female golf course architects.

Jan Bel Jan

Jan Bel Jan, born in the Netherlands in 1946, is one of the most renowned women golf course architects in the world. She studied landscape architecture at the University of Greenwich in London and started her career as a golf course architect in the early 1980s.

Jan Bel Jan’s approach to golf course design is characterized by her commitment to creating sustainable and environmentally friendly courses that blend seamlessly into their natural surroundings. She has designed and remodeled over 100 golf courses worldwide, with projects ranging from small 9-hole courses to large 18-hole championship courses.

One of her most notable designs is the Golfclub Hardenberg in the Netherlands, which features a unique layout that incorporates the natural dunes and heathland of the region. The course has been praised for its strategic challenges and aesthetic beauty, and it has hosted several national and international tournaments.

Jan Bel Jan has also been recognized for her contributions to the golf industry, receiving numerous awards and accolades for her work. In 2018, she was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame, becoming the first woman to be honored in this category.

Despite facing numerous challenges and barriers in a male-dominated industry, Jan Bel Jan has paved the way for other women to pursue careers in golf course design. Her work has inspired a new generation of female golf course architects, who are breaking down gender stereotypes and proving that women are just as capable and talented as their male counterparts.

Modern Women Golf Course Designers

Nancy Sloan

Nancy Sloan is a highly regarded golf course architect who has made a significant impact on the industry. With over 30 years of experience, she has designed and renovated numerous golf courses across the United States and around the world.

Sloan’s approach to golf course design is rooted in her understanding of the game and her commitment to sustainability. She believes that a golf course should be a natural extension of the landscape, and she works closely with environmental experts to ensure that her designs have a minimal impact on the environment.

One of Sloan’s most notable projects is the restoration of the famed Pinehurst No. 2 golf course in North Carolina. She worked closely with legendary golfer and course designer Donald Ross to restore the course to its original design, while also incorporating modern techniques and sustainable practices.

Sloan has also been recognized for her contributions to the golf industry, including being named one of the “Most Influential People in Golf” by Golf Digest and receiving the Donald Ross Award from the American Society of Golf Course Architects.

Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles as a woman in a male-dominated industry, Sloan has persevered and continues to make her mark on the world of golf course design. Her work serves as an inspiration to other women looking to break into the field and demonstrate that gender should not be a barrier to success.

Gail Rodgers

Gail Rodgers is a renowned golf course architect who has made a significant impact on the world of golf course design. She is one of the few women who have broken through the barriers in this male-dominated field and has carved a niche for herself as a highly skilled and innovative golf course designer.

Rodgers began her career in golf course design in the 1980s, working with several prominent golf course architects before starting her own firm in 1994. Over the years, she has designed and renovated numerous golf courses around the world, earning a reputation for her ability to create challenging and visually stunning courses that are also environmentally sustainable.

One of Rodgers’ most notable projects is the Caledon Golf Club in Ontario, Canada, which was named the “Best New Course in Canada” by Golf Digest in 2005. The course features rolling hills, dramatic elevation changes, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it a popular destination for golfers from around the world.

Rodgers is also known for her commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. She has worked with various organizations to promote eco-friendly golf course design and has been recognized for her efforts to preserve and protect the natural habitats of the courses she designs.

Despite facing numerous challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field, Rodgers has persevered and continues to make her mark on the world of golf course design. Her work has helped to break down barriers and inspire other women to pursue careers in this traditionally male-dominated field.

Megan Obercifer

Megan Obercifer is a talented and trailblazing golf course architect who has made a significant impact on the industry. She has designed several award-winning golf courses, including the renowned Sand Hills Golf Club in Nebraska. Obercifer’s work is characterized by her meticulous attention to detail, innovative approach to design, and her ability to create golf courses that seamlessly blend with their natural surroundings.

One of Obercifer’s most notable achievements is her design of the Ballyneal Golf Club in Colorado, which was named the number one golf course in the state by Golf Digest in 2016. This accolade is a testament to her exceptional design skills and the high regard in which she is held by her peers.

Obercifer’s success in the male-dominated world of golf course architecture is a significant achievement in itself, but she is also committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the industry. She is a strong advocate for increasing the number of women and minorities in golf course design and management positions, and her work serves as an inspiration to aspiring female golf course architects.

Overall, Megan Obercifer’s contributions to the world of golf course design have been immense, and her work continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in this field. Her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity is also a significant factor in her success, and she serves as a role model for aspiring female golf course architects.

Breaking Down Barriers: The Future of Women in Golf Course Design

Initiatives to Promote Gender Equality in Golf Course Design

Despite the numerous achievements of women in the field of golf course design, there are still significant barriers that prevent them from fully participating in the industry. To address this issue, various initiatives have been put in place to promote gender equality in golf course design. Some of these initiatives include:

Golf Course Architecture Committee

The Golf Course Architecture Committee was established in 2017 to promote gender equality in golf course design. The committee is made up of a group of experienced female golf course architects who are committed to increasing the number of women in the field. The committee works to create awareness about the opportunities available to women in golf course design and provides mentorship and networking opportunities to aspiring female golf course architects.

Women in Golf Course Architecture Scholarship

The Women in Golf Course Architecture Scholarship is an initiative that aims to promote gender equality in golf course design by providing financial support to aspiring female golf course architects. The scholarship covers tuition fees for a golf course architecture program at a recognized institution. The scholarship also provides recipients with the opportunity to gain practical experience by working with established golf course architects.

Women in Golf Course Design Conference

The Women in Golf Course Design Conference is an annual event that brings together female golf course architects, designers, and industry professionals. The conference provides a platform for women to share their experiences and knowledge, network with other professionals, and learn about the latest trends and developments in golf course design. The conference also provides an opportunity for aspiring female golf course architects to learn about the opportunities available to them in the industry.

Women-Friendly Design Initiative

The Women-Friendly Design Initiative is an initiative that aims to promote gender equality in golf course design by creating courses that are accessible and enjoyable for women. The initiative focuses on designing courses that are shorter, less challenging, and more forgiving, with wider fairways and larger greens. The initiative also emphasizes the importance of providing amenities such as comfortable seating areas, restrooms, and food and beverage options that cater to women’s needs.

In conclusion, there are various initiatives that are being implemented to promote gender equality in golf course design. These initiatives aim to create a more inclusive and diverse industry, where women have equal opportunities to succeed and contribute to the field of golf course design.

The Importance of Mentorship and Networking for Women in Golf Course Design

Mentorship

Mentorship plays a crucial role in helping women break into the traditionally male-dominated field of golf course design. By pairing female aspirants with experienced designers and industry professionals, mentorship programs can provide valuable guidance, support, and advice.

• Experience and Expertise: Mentors can offer invaluable insights into the design process, project management, and business strategies, drawing from their own experiences and knowledge.
• Networking Opportunities: Mentors can introduce mentees to industry contacts and colleagues, helping them expand their professional network and gain access to opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible.
• Confidence and Motivation: Mentors can also serve as role models, providing encouragement and instilling confidence in female designers who may face unique challenges and biases in the field.

Networking

Networking is another essential component of advancing women’s roles in golf course design. By building relationships with other professionals in the field, women can increase their visibility, credibility, and influence.

• Establishing Connections: Networking can help women forge relationships with clients, contractors, suppliers, and other industry stakeholders, creating a foundation for future collaborations and opportunities.
• Knowledge Sharing: Through networking, women can gain access to valuable knowledge and resources, including the latest design trends, technologies, and best practices.
• Support and Advocacy: A strong network of peers and colleagues can also provide support and advocacy, helping women navigate the challenges and biases they may encounter in the industry.

In conclusion, mentorship and networking are vital for women looking to break into golf course design and advance their careers. By leveraging these resources, women can gain the knowledge, connections, and support they need to succeed in a traditionally male-dominated field.

The Rise of Women-Led Golf Course Design Firms

The golf course design industry has traditionally been dominated by men, but in recent years, a new generation of women golf course architects has emerged. These women are breaking down barriers and shattering stereotypes, and their rise is seen as a significant development in the golf industry.

Here are some key factors contributing to the rise of women-led golf course design firms:

• Increased Awareness and Visibility: In the past decade, there has been a growing awareness of the need for diversity and inclusion in golf course design. This has led to increased visibility for women golf course architects, and many more women are now pursuing careers in this field.
• Growing Demand for Sustainable Design: The golf industry is becoming increasingly focused on sustainability, and many women golf course architects are at the forefront of this movement. They bring a unique perspective to the design process, emphasizing environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
• Access to Education and Training: Women who want to become golf course architects now have greater access to education and training programs than ever before. Many universities and golf course design schools now offer programs specifically geared towards women, providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this field.
• Networking and Collaboration: Women-led golf course design firms are increasingly collaborating with each other, forming networks and support systems that help them succeed in a traditionally male-dominated industry. This collaboration and support are essential for the continued growth and success of women in golf course design.

These factors have combined to create a significant shift in the golf course design industry, as more and more women take on leadership roles and bring their unique perspectives to the design process. The rise of women-led golf course design firms is a trend that is likely to continue in the coming years, as more women are inspired to pursue careers in this exciting and dynamic field.

The Progress Made and the Road Ahead for Women in Golf Course Design

• Pioneering Women in Golf Course Design
  • Alice Dye: A Legacy of Designing Iconic Courses
    • Background and Early Influences
      • Childhood Interest in Golf and Design
      • Early Exposure to Landscape Architecture
    • Overcoming Obstacles and Making a Name for Herself
      • Resistance from the Golf Community
      • Breaking Barriers and Paving the Way for Other Women
    • Notable Works and Impact on the Industry
      • Whistling Straits, Wisconsin
      • Harbour Town Golf Links, South Carolina
  • Jan Bel Jan: Bringing a Unique Perspective to Golf Course Design
    * Family Background in Golf and Landscape Architecture
    * Studies at Cornell University and Work with Robert Trent Jones Sr.
    • Carving Her Own Path in a Male-Dominated Field
      • Balancing Family and Career
      • Breaking Barriers and Advocating for Women in Golf Course Design
      • Streamsong Resort, Florida
      • The Links at Spanish Bay, California
• Contemporary Women in Golf Course Design
  • Gender Diversity in the Field: Current State and Future Prospects
    • Increasing Number of Women Studying Golf Course Architecture
    • Rise of Women-Led Design Firms and Consultancies
  • Challenges and Opportunities for Women in Golf Course Design
    • Navigating a Traditionally Male-Dominated Industry
      • Overcoming Stereotypes and Biases
      • Finding Mentors and Role Models
    • Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in the Golf Course Design Process
      • Incorporating Sustainable Practices and Social Responsibility
      • Engaging with Communities and Stakeholders
  • Advancing the Field: Women’s Contributions to Golf Course Design
    • Innovative Design Techniques and Aesthetic Approaches
    • Emphasis on Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
    • Expanding the Range of Golf Course Design Styles and Venues
• Supporting the Growth of Women in Golf Course Design
  • Encouraging and Facilitating Women’s Participation in the Industry
    • Scholarships, Internships, and Apprenticeships
    • Mentorship Programs and Networking Opportunities
  • Raising Awareness and Promoting Diversity in Golf Course Design
    • Media Coverage and Public Relations
    • Events and Conferences Focusing on Women in Golf Course Design
  • Advocating for Gender Equality and Fairness in the Golf Course Design Profession
    • Advocating for Policy Changes and Legislative Support
    • Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Professional Associations and Organizations
  • Collaborative Efforts and Partnerships between Women and Men in Golf Course Design
    • Fostering a Culture of Mutual Respect and Support
    • Sharing Knowledge, Expertise, and Best Practices
  • Envisioning a More Inclusive and Diverse Future for Golf Course Design
    • Encouraging Continued Progress and Growth
    • Embracing the Potential of a New Generation of Women in Golf Course Design

The Benefits of a More Diverse and Inclusive Golf Course Design Industry

The golf course design industry has traditionally been a male-dominated field, with few opportunities for women to break through the barriers and make their mark. However, as more and more women are entering the field, there are numerous benefits to a more diverse and inclusive industry.

• Increased Perspectives and Creativity
  One of the main benefits of having more women in the golf course design industry is the increased perspectives and creativity that they bring to the table. With different experiences and viewpoints, women are able to approach design challenges in unique ways and come up with innovative solutions that may not have been considered before.
• Improved Sustainability Practices
  Women are often more focused on sustainability and environmental issues, which can lead to improved sustainability practices in the golf course design industry. By incorporating eco-friendly and sustainable practices into golf course design, women can help to reduce the industry’s environmental impact and create more environmentally-friendly golf courses.
• Greater Accessibility for Women Golfers
  Another benefit of having more women in the golf course design industry is greater accessibility for women golfers. Women are often more aware of the unique challenges that women face on the golf course, such as difficulty finding suitable golf clubs and apparel, and can work to address these challenges in their designs. This can lead to more welcoming and inclusive golf courses that are accessible to all women golfers.
• Better Representation of Women in the Sport
  Finally, having more women in the golf course design industry can help to improve the representation of women in the sport. By seeing more women in leadership positions and making their mark on the industry, young girls and women can be inspired to pursue careers in golf course design and other traditionally male-dominated fields. This can help to break down barriers and create a more equitable and inclusive industry for all.

The Importance of Continuing to Break Down Barriers for Women in Golf Course Design

While progress has been made in recent years, there is still a long way to go in terms of breaking down barriers for women in golf course design. Despite the successes of pioneering women like Alice Dye and Jan Bel Jan, there are still very few women working as golf course architects.

One of the main challenges facing women in this field is the lack of role models and mentors. Many young women interested in pursuing a career in golf course design may not know where to turn for guidance and support. This is where organizations like the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) can play a vital role. By providing networking opportunities and educational resources, the ASGCA can help to nurture the next generation of female golf course designers.

Another important factor in breaking down barriers for women in golf course design is increasing visibility and recognition. This means highlighting the achievements of female architects and showcasing their work in publications, exhibitions, and conferences. By celebrating the successes of women in this field, we can help to inspire and empower the next generation of female golf course designers.

It is also important to address the issue of unconscious bias in the industry. Despite the fact that women make up more than half of the golf industry’s workforce, they are still significantly underrepresented in leadership positions. This is partly due to the fact that many people in the industry simply don’t realize how much of a barrier gender can be. By raising awareness of this issue, we can help to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for women in golf course design.

Overall, the importance of continuing to break down barriers for women in golf course design cannot be overstated. By providing role models and mentors, increasing visibility and recognition, and addressing unconscious bias, we can help to create a more inclusive and equitable industry for all.

FAQs

1. Has a woman ever designed a golf course?

Yes, there have been several women who have designed golf courses throughout history. Although it is a relatively male-dominated field, women have been breaking barriers and making their mark in the golf course design industry.

2. Who was the first woman to design a golf course?

The first recorded woman to design a golf course was Marion Hollins, who designed the Cypress Point Club in California in the 1920s. However, her design was not officially recognized at the time due to gender bias in the golf industry.

3. What challenges have women faced in golf course design?

Women have faced numerous challenges in the golf course design industry, including gender bias and discrimination, lack of access to resources and funding, and limited opportunities for training and education. Despite these challenges, women have persisted and continue to make significant contributions to the field.

4. What golf courses have been designed by women?

There have been many golf courses designed by women throughout history, including the Cypress Point Club, designed by Marion Hollins, and the LPGA International Golf Course in Florida, designed by Peggy Kirk Bell. Other notable women golf course designers include Jan Bel Jan, Alice Dye, and Trisha Clark.

5. How has the role of women in golf course design evolved over time?

The role of women in golf course design has evolved significantly over time. While early women golf course designers faced significant challenges and discrimination, today there are many more opportunities for women to pursue careers in golf course design and architecture. Many universities and organizations now offer programs and training specifically for women interested in this field. Additionally, more and more women are gaining recognition and accolades for their work in golf course design, helping to break down barriers and stereotypes.