About
Dick Phelps and his son Rick together have contributed to over 400 golf course projects, significantly shaping golf in Colorado and the surrounding region.
Dick Phelps is an influential American golf course architect, best known for his extensive work in Colorado and beyond. Born and raised in Colorado Springs, his career started after obtaining both bachelor's and master's degrees in landscape architecture from Iowa State University in 1963. Over the decades, Phelps and his son Rick have been involved in over 400 golf course projects, including new designs, renovations, expansions, and remodels across 15 states and Canada. Phelps is recognized for championing user-friendly, public golf courses with his clear design philosophy: minimize blind shots and let golfers see the hazards ahead. His strong environmental stewardship and affection for Colorado's diverse landscapes have shaped his designs. Phelps served as president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects in 1980, contributed significantly to the Rocky Mountain Golf Course Superintendent’s Association, and helped guide the U.S. Golf Association Green Section. His legacy is marked by his prolific output and commitment to accessible, enjoyable golf.
