About
Dunning not only designed championship courses but was a pioneer in integrating automatic sprinkling systems into golf course layouts, enhancing playability and maintenance.
Charles Dunning, more formally known as Robert Charles Dunning, was an influential American golf course architect whose career spanned much of the 20th century. Born in Kansas City, Kansas in 1901, Dunning left a remarkable footprint on golf in the Midwest. Over his career, he designed and consulted on numerous golf courses, predominantly in Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. Notable courses attributed to his work include Blue Hills Country Club in Kansas City, Leawood South Country Club, and Tex Consolver Golf Course, among others. Dunning was known for his innovative approaches, including the use of multiple pin positions and designing courses for more interesting play. He also engineered and installed automatic sprinkling systems, which contributed to more reliable course conditions. His legacy in golf course design extended to championship venues and community courses alike, marking him as a significant contributor to golf in the region throughout his life.
