Ted Robinson Sr.

Ted Robinson Sr. established himself as one of the American West's most prolific golf course architects over a career spanning more than five decades. After earning a master's degree in planning from USC in 1948, he founded his practice in 1954 and went on to design over 160 courses, primarily throughout California, the western United States, and Hawaii, with additional work in Mexico and Asia. Robinson became known as the "King of Waterscapes" for his pioneering use of dramatic water features, waterfalls, and green-side hazards that became his design signature.

His California portfolio includes notable layouts such as the Falls at Blackhawk Country Club, Santa Ana Country Club, and the Valley course at Los Coyotes Country Club. Beyond the mainland, he designed King Kamehameha Golf Club in Hawaii and courses at prominent resort destinations including both courses at Marriott's Desert Springs Resort in Palm Desert. Robinson served as president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects from 1983 to 1984 and was elevated to ASGCA Fellow status in 1995.

Robinson continued working until his death in 2008, leaving a legacy of accessible, water-rich designs across the western landscape. His son, Ted Robinson Jr., has continued the family practice.

Sources: Wikipedia article on Ted Robinson (golf course architect); course list from Course Vaults.