Today we’d like to introduce you to Erik Larsen.
Hi Erik, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My Dad took me to a golf course when I was 5yrs old. Starting working on that same golf course in Newton, Iowa at 12 yrs old. Worked on golf courses from then, until I finished college. BS, Landscape Architecture NCSU. Approached Ed Seay, EVP of Palmer Course Design Company in 1983. I worked for Ed and Arnold Palmer from 1983-2011, becoming EVP in 2006. Current member and past president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects.
When with Palmer we designed nearly 250 golf courses worldwide, several award winners and tournament venues. Local courses include Sawgrass CC, Plantation at PV, Oak Bridge, Marsh Landing, Hidden Hills, North Hampton.
Went on my own in 2012, forming LarsenGolf, Inc. Local work includes the complete remaking of Selva Marina CC into Atlantic Beach CC. St. Johns Golf Club (County Course). Recently completed plans for remodeling of Deerwood CC and completed construction of 3x hole reversible short course there. Working with Scott Schroeder, UNF Golf Coach on remodel of the team practice area.
Recently finished an 18 hole short course in Homestead, FL. NCSU University Club short course, renovation at Musgrove MIll GC, Clinton, SC, Tournament Club of Iowa, Polk City, IA renovation and Master Plan for Dakota Dunes CC, Sioux City, SD.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Smooth sailing when with Arnold Palmer. The phone just kept ringing until 2011…then golf course design work slowed.
A bit of a rough patch when AP slowed down the company…he was done traveling…and I went on my own.
The industry is extremely robust presently. New golf amenities of off course facilities and short courses have renewed an already strong increase interest in golf.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Golf course architecture is 80% underground and 20% above ground. People/players enjoy the above ground components but it is the underground infrastructure that determines the quality of a golf course.
In new courses, I specialize in good routing and creating unique character for that facility. In renovation work I specialize in determining infrastructure needs and practically going about fixing them with interesting design layered on. I always try to find a way to increase revenue as part of my involvement via uncovering remnant land for development (with mandatory membership on new property) and/or add to the golf amenity package (short fun golf ) that increases dues and member interest.
Remaking the failing Selva Marina CC in to the smash success of Atlantic Beach CC was special.
Design is a process of problem solving. I am good at that part plus I am able to create unique, aesthetically striking golf courses with solid risk and reward strategy.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
That people/players really appreciate the quality of my design, because it means I’ve contributed to their enjoyment of our great game of golf. Golf courses are going to be there for a long time, when the quality of design holds up over time and people continue to appreciate that is quite rewarding.
Second to that is to stay active. It is very rewarding when the phone rings from someone with interest in my work and it allows me to grow my skill. I like to think I’m getting better at this profession and want to continue laying down good golf courses.
Contact Info:
- Website: [email protected]
