Bill Coore is a big name in a golf gresand architecture. But he was not always intended for a life in design. At the University in Wake Forest he studied the classics. No layouts of the Golden Age. Actual classics. The history and literature of ancient Greece. He planned to become a university professor.
But you know how it goes. Plans are like Tee -shots. They take surprising turns. Sometimes they end up in wonderful places.
We mention that as inspiration, but also as a lead in an opportunity: a chance to try it your Hand on golf course design
It is planned for March in Pinehurst Resort, where the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) will hold its second annual design boat camp. The inaugural edition, held in Erin Hills, in Wisconsin, in 2024, was such a success, the ASGCA decided to run back.
Just like the first bootcamp, this year’s four-day, compelling program offers aspiring course designers and architecture buffs a mix of classroom study and practical training, under the supervision of well-known architects on a special site. After lectures and discussions about the basics and principles of the trade, participants set off to fieldwork at Pinehurst Sandmines, adjacent to Pinehurst no. 10, where they get the chance to fit a layout and design holes that suit the landscape.
Together with work there will play, with rounds at Pinehurst no. 2 and De Wieg in the company of Boot Camp instructors.
Those instructors – Jan Bel Jan, Jeff Blume, Jeff Brauer, Bruce Charlton, Steve Forrest, Mike Hurdzan, Tom Marzolf and Damian Pascuzzo – are all past ASGCA presidents that have collectively designed hundreds of jobs around the world. Consider this a journey of the friends for architecture junkies, with enough time to talk to prominent figures in the field.
As a bonus, the curriculum will contain a special guest performance by former classics Major Bill Coore, who will lead participants during a sitetour through his project in Pinehurst no. 11, which is currently under construction in the Sandmines and planned to open at the end of 2027.
The camp runs from 9-13 March 2026. The costs are $ 20,000 per person, with $ 15,000 that are eligible for a charity tax deduction to the ASGCA Foundation, which supports projects and organizations that improve municipal courses, as well as programs aimed at developing the next generation market leaders. The registration costs relate to materials and supplies; shelter at the Holly Inn in the village of Pinehurst; eat and drink; Caddies; tips; Special gifts and ducks. Participation is limited to 16 registered persons.
For more information, visit Design Boot Camp 2026.
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