American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) Past President Rees Jones received the first ASGCA Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes the honoree’s long-term impact to the ASGCA family through leadership, engagement, support and service.
“I am deeply honored to be the recipient of the ASGCA Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Jones. “This recognition is especially meaningful because it comes from my peers, whose talent and contributions continue to shape the future of golf course architecture. My involvement with the ASGCA has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my professional career.”
Internationally recognized, Jones began his career working alongside his father, ASGCA Founding Member Robert Trent Jones Sr. The younger Jones has designed or renovated more than 300 golf courses, including the original Poppy Ridge in 1996, earning the title “The Open Doctor” for his renovation and restoration of some of the top courses in the world in advance of major championships.
The award recognizes Jones’ long-term accomplishments, dedication, commitment and service to the ASGCA and the ASGCA Foundation, including serving as the Awards Committee chair for 50 years and contributions to the planning of the Society’s Annual Meeting and other international architecture events.
“We are honored that Rees is our first recipient and hope that his example will inspire and influence those following him in the future to similar contributions, service and commitment,” said outgoing ASGCA Foundation President Jeff Blume. “Perhaps Rees’ greatest contribution is the Donald Ross Award, which he has shepherded for 50 years. Presented to honorees such as President George H.W. Bush, Jim Nantz, ASGCA Fellow Jack Nicklaus and Dinah Shore, the Ross Award has raised awareness of ASGCA and the profession for decades.”
While receiving the award during the 80th ASGCA Annual Meeting in Nashville, Jones expressed his admiration and support for fellow members.
“Everybody would like to be in our profession, but they don’t know how hard it is,” Jones said. “It sounds glamorous but it’s not as easy as it looks. It’s a tough, tough profession. Everyone who has earned a Tartan jacket [worn by ASGCA members] should be proud of what you give to the golfer of the future.”
