Golf course design is an art form that blends nature, strategic thinking and architectural creativity to curate a playing experience that challenges and inspires golfers of all levels.
From the rolling hills of Fancourt Links to the rugged coastlines of Wild Coast Country Club, the golf courses across South Africa boast a diverse collection that stands out for its beauty, challenge and innovation in design.
The pinnacle of this elite club globally is, of course, Augusta National Golf Club, home of The Masters, which stands out as the symbol of excellence in its architectural perfection. The most awe-inspiring element of Augusta National, however, is its pristine condition.
I recently reviewed a poll that asked golfers what they rated as the most important drawcard for them to return to a particular golf course. Some 84% voted for the conditioning of the greens.
One of the key elements that sets Augusta National apart from other golf courses is its immaculate presentation.
The course’s meticulously manicured fairways, undulating greens and dazzling azaleas create a visual feast for the eyes and a serene backdrop for The Masters’ global television audience.
Every detail, from the placement of bunkers to the shaping of the greens, is carefully crafted to test players’ skills and strategic acumen while preserving the natural beauty of the towering pines.
‘Listen to the Land’ is the design mantra of Peter Matkovich, and this is a truth he lives by daily. Having been lucky enough to ‘walk the land’ on multiple sites with him over the past six years, I am constantly amazed at how he views each new project.
I have always considered myself a creative individual, but the way he has planned this one project, in particular, is exactly why he does the drawing and I do the map-carrying!
Stay tuned for more on this in a future column, as soon as my code of silence is lifted.
Africa’s latest masterpiece, La Reserve in Mauritius, represents a collaboration between Peter Matkovich and Louis Oosthuizen to create a golf course that seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape while providing an unforgettable golfing experience.
Set amidst lush tropical vegetation, rolling hills and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, La Reserve is a testament to Matkovich’s ability to harmonise manmade elements with the natural environment.
Widely known for its breathtaking views of the ocean, which is visible from each hole, the ‘Pure Golfing Drama’ of La Reserve sets the standard and is yet another testament to a master of his craft, a gentleman of the golfing industry, and a man who still wakes up at 4am every day filled with an abundance of inspiration and creativity.
You can follow the Matkovich Design journey on Instagram @MatkovichDesign and enjoy looking through the lens of one of the game’s greatest architects, as well as taking deep dives with industry leaders and, of course, a few quips and tips along the way, from Pete’s favourite map-carrying Zimbo.
– This column first appeared in the May 2024 issue of Compleat Golfer magazine.
Photo: Stuart Franklin/Getty Images
