Edinburgh: A Golfer’s Dream Come True

Edinburgh: A Golfer’s Dream Come True

Street signs may not usually catch your eye, but one on a stunning entry drive to a golf club read, “For Fox Sake Slow Down”. It seems like a humorous reminder, and it captures the spirit of a journey that one golf course architect dove into recently—a trip to Scotland that ended up changing his entire perspective on the game he loves.

The Fellowship Experience

Colton Craig, an up-and-coming golf course architect from Oklahoma, found himself on a month-long adventure through the enchanting links of Scotland, all thanks to the World 100 Architectural Fellowship. This fellowship, sponsored by the World 100 Club, was not only a professional leap for Colton, but also a heartwarming dive into his Scottish roots, given that Craig is a name steeped in Scottish history.

“This experience transformed my understanding of the game and its creative expression,” Colton remarked, emphasizing how deeply personal the journey was for him. While many aspiring golf course architects think they need five boxes checked before claiming to be true professionals, Colton has always resisted this notion. After visiting Scotland, he now believes all golf architects should go there to truly grasp the essence of their craft.

What is Links Golf?

To begin to understand what Colton means, we must define links golf. For many, this term can get a little fuzzy, but for him, it boils down to this: it must be played on sandy soil and be near the sea. What a lovely combo, right? You get the best materials for the best prices, as sandy soils also happen to be the go-to option for golfers.

Walking and Eating

During his time in Scotland, Colton averaged over 14 miles of walking each day while studying more than 50 links golf courses. “I was munching and sipping everything I wanted at night, but surprisingly ended up a few pounds lighter!” he quipped. It seems that the heritage sites and enchanting landscapes kept him on his toes.

Courses That Left a Mark

Among the courses that really left an impression on Colton, the Old Course claimed a special spot. It’s often dubbed the “Home of Golf,” and for good reason. Colton describes its layout as organic, teaching future architects that the land should dictate the design. He also loved Muirfield for its strategic design and rich history, with its clubhouse displaying the original rules of golf. The course at Prestwick, where the first Open Championship was held, showcased some of the wackiest yet interesting holes, with one player saying he still can’t figure out how to approach them after 40 years!

His personal favorite, however, turned out to be Cruden Bay—a course that dazzled with dramatic scenery and challenging holes, capturing the beauty and rawness of true links golf. Meanwhile, North Berwick was named as possibly the most charming golf course in the world—with a mix of history, tradition, and a picturesque town

A Hidden Gem

One unexpected highlight came from a last-minute detour to Covesea. Colton hadn’t planned to visit this course, but a roadside sign caught his eye. This laid-back 9-hole course became a delightful surprise, a hidden gem that often gets overlooked.

The Heart of Golf

Living in Scotland carved a sturdy bond between Colton and the culture surrounding golf. Inspired by local insights, he learned that golf isn’t just a game there—it’s a lifestyle stitched together by camaraderie and respect for history. “Nothing is worse than mediocrity,” said an art dealer from Muirfield, profoundly capturing the essence of excellence that resonates throughout both art and golf course architecture.

A Legacy to Uphold

As Colton heads back to his work, he carries the insights he gained on this journey with him. “The job of a golf course architect is 70 percent creative, 15 percent administrative, and 15 percent managing egos,” he said laughing. This trip reinforced the value of allowing the land to shine through design rather than forcing superficial ideas.

“Sensationalism might grab attention, but minimalism nurtures longevity,” Colton concluded, feeling fulfilled by this remarkable adventure through Scotland. It wasn’t just a month of study, but a pilgrimage into the very heart of golf that will forever influence his style as he continues to create courses that honor the traditions of this beloved game.