Bob Cupp

Bob Cupp (1939–2016) was an acclaimed American golf course architect whose design career spanned over four decades. He began as a professional golfer before joining Jack Nicklaus’ design team in 1970, serving as senior designer for more than 15 years. In 1984, Cupp formed his own firm and went on to design or redesign more than 140 courses worldwide, including well-known layouts like Pumpkin Ridge (Oregon), Liberty National (New Jersey), Old Waverly (Mississippi), and Glen Abbey (Canada).

Cupp's designs are known for blending strategic challenge with playability, often involving close collaboration with other notable designers. His work has hosted over 50 national and international tournaments, including seven major championships. In 1992, Golf World named him their first-ever Golf Architect of the Year, recognizing his innovative and respected contributions to golf architecture.

Beyond design, Cupp was a gifted artist and author, known for murals depicting the history of Alaska and a novel about golf. He served as president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) in 2012-13 and was highly regarded for mentorship and leadership within the golf architecture community. Bob Cupp left a lasting legacy both through the courses he shaped and his influence on the next generation of designers.