About
Edmund Ault once said if he wrote a book on golf course design, the first three chapters would be about drainage, drainage, and more drainage, highlighting his pragmatic approach to course construction.
Edmund B. Ault (1908–1989) was a highly influential golf architect based in Washington, D.C., credited with designing or remodeling over 200 courses across 19 states and internationally. A scratch golfer in his youth, he studied Construction Engineering at Columbia Technical Institute before pursuing golf course architecture, where he trained under Fred Findlay. Ault began private practice in 1946 and quickly established a reputation for practical, economical designs that emphasized large greens, natural drainage, and minimal bunkering to keep courses playable and affordable.
His work focused largely on public and municipal courses, making golf more accessible to everyday players rather than exclusive country clubs. Notable designs include TPC Avenel in Maryland, Toftrees Country Club in State College, Pennsylvania, and numerous courses throughout central Pennsylvania, where he helped expand the game significantly.
Ault was known for his no-nonsense style, reasonable fees, and ability to keep projects on budget. He also pioneered flexible course setups, coordinating pin placements intricately with tee locations to challenge players of all levels. His legacy continues through Ault, Clark & Associates, the firm he co-founded with his son Brian and partner Tom Clark.
