John Harbottle III

Born
1958
in
?
Seattle
,
Washington
U.S.A.

About

Harbottle's mother, Patricia Lesser Harbottle, was the 1955 U.S. Women's Amateur Champion, making him part of one of the Pacific Northwest's most accomplished golf families.

John Harbottle III was a renowned American golf course architect celebrated for blending environmental sensitivity with classic design. Born into a family of distinguished golfers, Harbottle was influenced early on by both his parents' accomplishments in the game. After studying landscape architecture at the University of Washington, he launched his design career under the mentorship of Pete Dye in 1984. Harbottle established his own firm, John Harbottle Design, in 1991 in Tacoma, Washington. His portfolio features more than 20 new course designs and the renovation of over 50 courses across the United States, Canada, and Japan. Notable projects include the Olympic Course at Gold Mountain, Palouse Ridge in Pullman, and extensive renovations at the Los Angeles Country Club. Harbottle’s design philosophy was deeply influenced by traditional Scottish links courses, emphasizing minimal earth movement and harmony with the natural landscape. His work has been repeatedly recognized for environmental stewardship and playability, and his legacy continues through numerous award-winning courses.

Top Courses by John Harbottle III