Joel Goldstrand

Joel Goldstrand was an influential American golf course architect and player whose career left a lasting mark on golf in the Upper Midwest. Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, and raised in Worthington, he excelled on the Worthington High School state championship team and played for the University of Houston, contributing to two NCAA championship victories. After graduating in 1961, Goldstrand played on the PGA Tour from 1965 to 1973, competing in major events including The Masters and finishing just one stroke behind the winner at the 1969 New Orleans Open. Transitioning from competitive golf, he served as the head professional at Minneapolis Golf Club for 16 years before fully embracing course design in 1989. Goldstrand is credited with designing or contributing to nearly 100 courses, primarily in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and the Dakotas, often creating highly rated public facilities. Notable designs include The Pines at Grand View Lodge, Minnesota National, Superior National at Lutsen, Geneva Golf Club, and Blueberry Pines Golf Club. While renowned for working effectively within modest budgets, his courses are celebrated for variety and playability, solidifying his legacy as a creative force in regional golf architecture.