Joe Finger

Joe Finger was a highly respected American golf course architect whose career spanned over 45 years and earned him recognition among the top designers in the country. Born and raised in Texas, he became the club champion at Houston’s Westwood Country Club at just 17, a title he held for 13 years, reflecting his lifelong commitment to golf. Initially working as an unpaid superintendent, Finger’s engineering skills and passion for the sport led him to design his first course at Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio. His career flourished as he created courses across the United States—from New York to California—and internationally, as well as nine courses for the Air Force. Notably, he was invited by the legendary Byron Nelson to help rebuild the 8th green at the Masters. He also co-designed Riverhill Country Club with Nelson in Texas. A member of the American Society of Golf Course Architects, Finger was known for his innovation and his deep influence on American golf course design.