A very collaborative episode at the recent EIGCA Annual Meeting in Utrecht, where we joined our partner Toro to record a wide-ranging and insightful conversation with a fantastic group of guests, including:

Andy Brown from Toro

Toby Ingleton of Golf Course Architecture Magazine

Golf course architects:

Jeff Lynch of Re:Golf

James Edwards of EDI

Bruce Charlton of RTJ2.

The discussion which was not always a deep "architecture" conversation, began with reflections on three exceptional courses played during the meeting: Kyle Phillips' Bernardus, along with Hilversumsche and De Pan. These courses provided the perfect backdrop to explore the strength of golf in the Netherlands, a country with a rich golfing history where courses are often seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape and foster a strong sense of community.

From there, the conversation expanded into how the setting of a golf course influences perception, not just in terms of scenery but in how it interacts with architectural intent. The group also explored the challenges facing golf in the Netherlands, particularly around increasing regulation. The country is often seen as a bellwether for future trends in areas such as biodiversity, chemical use, and water management, raising important questions about how these issues may shape the future of golf globally.

The evolution of golf clubs was another key theme, with discussion around opening facilities up to become more inclusive, mixed-use spaces that appeal to a broader audience. Alongside this, the value of practice and short-form facilities—such as short game areas, driving ranges, and putting courses—was highlighted as an increasingly important part of modern golf operations.

We also delved into length of Golf Courses and the question of; do we need to reduce the length of courses to appeal to a larger number of Golfers.

It was a thoughtful and engaging conversation throughout, and we are grateful to all of our guests for their time and insights.

Toro Golf

EIGCA

Golf Course Architecture Magazine

ReGolf

EDI Golf

RTJ2

A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro

Check them out here!

https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/

https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true

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golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com

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Dana Fry joins The Process by The Greenprint for a deep dive into his design philosophy, influences, and the journey that shaped him into one of golf architecture's leading figures.

From his early days learning the craft, through his time working under Tom Fazio, and alongside influential figures like Andy Banfield and Mike Strantz, Dana shares an honest account of how he evolved from shaper to designer. Now, as co-founder of Fry/Straka alongside Jason Straka, he sits at the forefront of major projects across the U.S. and internationally.

The conversation explores standout projects, including Miakka in central Florida - a bold and distinctive development with shades of Shadow Creek Golf Course, as well as the contrasting coastal challenge of Curracloe Links in Ireland.

Dana also opens up about the realities of golf course architecture: the types of land designers are given, the constraints they face, and how great architects maximize every site's potential.

Candid, thoughtful, and deeply passionate, Dana delivers an insightful look into the mindset behind world-class golf course design.

https://www.frystraka.com/

Reach out to Thad - https://thadlaytondesign.com/

A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro

Check them out here!

https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/

https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true

www.golfclubtalk.uk

golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com

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We catch up with Jasper Miners of Evalu18 and Top 100 Golf Courses.

Jasper has a deep passion for golf course architecture, and he's become widely respected for helping clubs uncover and understand their history. This work plays a crucial role in guiding future course design, ensuring that any renovations or restorations retain the original spirit and integrity of the course.

We dive into his current involvement with St George's Hill in Surrey, where an exciting renovation/restoration project is about to begin under the direction of Brian Schneider and his team. Jasper will play a central role in shaping that process.

The conversation also broadens into general course discussion, starting with Streamsong, which Jasper recently visited. We look at Golf in Australia and also Ryder Cup and Open Championship venues. With his extensive experience playing courses all over the world, Jasper brings a unique perspective to the game and to his work with Top 100 Golf Courses and he talks us through the success and philosophy behind the Top 100 Golf Courses website, and how it has grown into a valuable resource for golfers everywhere.

An engaging and insightful chat with Jasper—we hope you enjoy it.

https://www.top100golfcourses.com/

https://evalu18.com/

A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro

Check them out here!

https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/

https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true

www.golfclubtalk.uk

golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com

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Leighton and Thad sit down with the inimitable David McLay Kidd of DMK designs to unpack the process behind his remarkable career designing some of golf's most iconic courses.

They explore how David evolved his approach early on—taking on the role of general contractor on many of his projects to gain greater control over execution—and how that decision has shaped the consistency and quality of his work. The conversation dives deep into his creative philosophy, particularly how he transforms diverse and often challenging landscapes into compelling golf experiences through meticulous routing and design.

David shares insights from recent projects including River Ranch and Loraloma, before turning the spotlight to Streamsong's fourth and newest course, Bone Valley. As the "fourth cab off the rank," David explains the unique challenges and opportunities of building alongside three established courses—and how he approached carving out something distinctive.

Great chats also including an analogy with filmmaking and balancing elite and amateur players in his design.

This is a rare, in-depth look at David's thinking, as he goes further than usual in breaking down the principles and process that define his work. The results speak for themselves—and you won't want to miss this one.

http://dmkgolfdesign.com/

https://www.streamsongresort.com/

Reach out to Thad - https://thadlaytondesign.com/

A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro

Check them out here!

https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/

https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true

www.golfclubtalk.uk

golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com

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On the Tee is our round-up of golf course projects taking shape across the globe, from new openings to developments under construction and recently announced designs. In this episode, we're joined by Toby Ingleton of Golf Course Architecture for our own take on a "Florida Swing," focusing on a cluster of exciting projects in the region and beyond.

We begin with Apogee's Summit Course in Florida, designed by Kyle Phillips, which is already open and setting a high benchmark. From there, we move to Ireland, where Phillips is also leading the transformation of Brittas Bay, formerly known as the European Club, bringing a fresh vision to a well-known links landscape.

Staying in the U.S., we explore the much-anticipated "Bone Valley" course at Streamsong Resort, designed by David McLay Kidd, alongside his work at River Ranch, another project generating significant interest for its scale and ambition.

The episode also highlights the work of Dana Fry and Jason Straka, with two notable developments: Miakka in Florida and Curracloe Links at Ravenport Resort in Ireland. Both projects showcase their distinct design approach across very different environments.

With most of these courses scheduled to open in late 2026 or early 2027, there's a great deal to look forward to as these designs come to life. For more detail on all of these projects, visit Golf Course Architecture Magazine.

https://www.golfcoursearchitecture.net/

A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro

Check them out here!

https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/

https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true

www.golfclubtalk.uk

golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com

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In Episode 2 of The Process we sit down with Tom Mackenzie of Mackenzie & Ebert to explore the philosophy and thinking behind his approach to golf course design. Strategy sits at the heart of Tom's work, with a clear focus on creating the best possible playing conditions while offering engaging strategic choices for as many golfers as possible.

Strategy can take many forms, and in the episode Tom shares examples from several projects. At North Hants Golf Club the design approach included reducing the number of bunkers while still maintaining strategic interest and visual clarity. At New South Wales Golf Club a previously overlooked stone wall was discovered during the design process and incorporated as an out-of-bounds feature, creating a distinctive strategic element that now influences how the hole is played.

We also discuss the company's philosophy of producing highly detailed designs before any construction begins. This careful planning helps ensure that the strategic intent of a course is clear from the outset, while still leaving room for adjustments and creative decisions once work begins on the ground. The balance between precise planning and on-site flexibility is a key part of the firm's process.

With the firm involved at a number of venues associated with The Open Championship, Tom reflects on the responsibility that comes with helping to care for some of golf's most historic courses. While he doesn't feel overwhelmed by the role, he does acknowledge the importance of protecting the character and heritage of these storied venues.

The conversation touches on work at a range of notable clubs including West Sussex Golf Club, Nairn Golf Club, Victoria Golf Club, Royal Liverpool Golf Club, Royal Birkdale Golf Club, Royal St George's Golf Club and North Hants.

It's an insightful conversation with one of the game's most thoughtful architects, offering a deeper look into the strategic thinking and design process that shape some of the world's most respected golf courses.

https://www.mackenzieandebert.com/

Reach out to Thad - https://thadlaytondesign.com/

A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro

Check them out here!

https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/

https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true

www.golfclubtalk.uk

golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com

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On this Toro Partnership episode, we visit the stunning Lofoten Links in Norway and speak to Jerry Mulvihill (Superintendent) and Tekla Kvachadze

Jerry and Tekla share how they manage turf in one of the world's most remote and visually striking locations, dealing with short growing seasons, harsh weather, limited access to resources, and the unique challenges of midnight sun and polar night. They also explain some of the benefits and advantages of living in this beautiful part of the world. The course goes from strength to strength and continues to attract Golfers from all over the world.

This episode covers:

• Maintaining turf in extreme cold

• Adapting agronomy to the unique climate

• Equipment, staffing, and logistics in remote locations

• The shared problem-solving mindset required to deliver top-level playing conditions

• The joys of working in Lofoten, but also with a fantastic team

https://www.lofotenlinks.no/en/

A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro

Check them out here!

https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/

https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true

www.golfclubtalk.uk

golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com

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We're excited to bring you The Process by The Greenprint, a new sub-series that digs deep into how golf course architects think, work, and create.

Hosted by Leighton Walker and joined by Thad Layton of Thad Layton Design, the series explores the processes that shape great golf design.

In this first full episode, we sit down with Nick Mills, a Melbourne-born golf course designer whose introduction to the game began caddying at Capital Golf Club. That early exposure—combined with hands-on maintenance work and formal study in Landscape Architecture—laid the foundation for a career defined by curiosity, experimentation, and a deep respect for the land.

The conversation traces formative projects across New Zealand and the United States, including early restoration work at Titirangi Golf Club alongside Clyde Johnson, a transition into U.S. construction at Cedarbrook, the influential Old Sandwich short-game area, and ongoing large-scale work at The Patterson Club. Along the way, we explore how small projects can have outsized influence, and why restraint and scale—particularly around bunkering—are essential tools in design.

We also discuss the architects, mentors, and creative thinkers who have shaped Nick's perspective, including French gardener and writer Gilles Clément, and his concept of the "third landscape." The episode highlights the importance of looking beyond the golf architecture echo chamber, and how collaboration—especially in shaping—drives the best outcomes.

The conversation closes with reflections on sustainability as a natural byproduct of good design, and why the greatest golf holes should ultimately make you feel something.

Reach out to Thad - https://thadlaytondesign.com/

A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro

Check them out here!

https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/

https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true

www.golfclubtalk.uk

golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com

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