From Pete Dye to Projects Down Under, with Ryan Van Der Veen - The Greenprint Episode 3
Release Date: 04/25/2025
The Greenprint
Leighton and Adam Lawrence of Golf Course Architecture Magazine and Oxford Golf Consulting lead episode 6 of The The Greenprint where they are joined by Tripp Davis. Tripp Davis is a highly respected American golf course architect and the founder of Tripp Davis and Associates (TDA), a firm he established in 1994. With a unique blend of competitive golfing experience and academic training in landscape architecture, Davis has become renowned for his strategic and environmentally conscious course designs. Having been a three-time American Junior Golf Association All-American and student...
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In this episode, we’re joined by Cam Ackerman and Aaron Belcher, the talented duo behind Up River Golf Co. – a rising force in golf course videography. With a rapidly growing reputation for cinematic storytelling and stunning visuals, Up River produces high-quality films for both private clients and their YouTube audience. Cam and Aaron share how they founded Up River and their passion for highlighting golf course architecture through compelling narratives. Their films don’t just show a course – they tell its story through the eyes of architects, superintendents, and those who live and...
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In this episode, Leighton is joined by renowned golf course architect Tim Lobb, founder of Lobb & Partners. The conversation charts Tim’s journey from his early days in Melbourne through pivotal roles at European Golf Design and Thompson, Perrett and Lobb, culminating in the launch of his own practice. Along the way, Tim shares how each phase of his career has informed his philosophy of working with the land, rather than imposing upon it. We explore Lobb & Partners' international portfolio, with projects stretching from British Columbia to India, and delve into the nuances of...
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In this episode, we're joined by golf course designer and builder Ryan Van Der Veen of Van Der Veen Designs. Growing up in Indiana, Ryan entered the world of construction and design early on—launching his career under the legendary Pete Dye. His time with Dye laid the foundation for a hands-on, design-and-build approach that's remained with him throughout his career. Ryan later joined Norman Designs, where he spent years refining his skills in construction, project management, and design across the globe. Eventually, his journey led him to Australia, where he's now based and continuing to...
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In this episode, Leighton delves into the remarkable transformation of Basingstoke Golf Club, telling the story through the evolution of the course itself. What began as an ambitious project years ago saw the club make a bold move half a mile across the M3 to Dummer Golf Club. The transition included selling the original site for development and acquiring Dummer Golf Course, all while ensuring that the members always had a course to play on. Scott and Bruce join Leighton to discuss the early challenges of this endeavor, including navigating planning hurdles, managing water resources, and...
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Welcome to the first episode of The Greenprint! In this inaugural episode, we dive into the incredible story of Raglan Golf Club in Monmouthshire, Wales—a course that has truly risen from the ashes. After closing its doors following the COVID-19 pandemic, Raglan was purchased in early 2024 by a group hailing from Monmouthshire, and its rebirth is nothing short of inspiring. Lucy, the driving force behind the revitalization, shares her journey in transforming the course from a state of disrepair to one that's ready to open in early April. From rebuilding greens to adding new tees and bunkers,...
info_outlineIn this episode, we're joined by golf course designer and builder Ryan Van Der Veen of Van Der Veen Designs.
Growing up in Indiana, Ryan entered the world of construction and design early on—launching his career under the legendary Pete Dye. His time with Dye laid the foundation for a hands-on, design-and-build approach that's remained with him throughout his career.
Ryan later joined Norman Designs, where he spent years refining his skills in construction, project management, and design across the globe. Eventually, his journey led him to Australia, where he's now based and continuing to make his mark.
We dive into Ryan’s current and upcoming projects, including:
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The nearly completed enhancement program at Glenelg Golf Club in South Australia, in collaboration with Neil Crafter
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A new project at Mollymook Golf Club in New South Wales
Ryan brings a calm and thoughtful perspective to the craft—shaped by decades of experience and a unique blend of tradition and innovation. There are some fantastic stories in this one, especially around his early days with Pete Dye and life on the road with international projects.
Whether you're into golf architecture, design philosophy, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is for you.
🎧 Tune in and enjoy!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-van-der-veen-b8698a215/
https://www.glenelggolf.com/cms/
https://www.mollymookgolf.com.au/
https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/
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