About
Kirby’s last completed design was the championship 18-hole course at Apes Hill in Barbados, which opened to great acclaim. He remained proud of this project, describing it as having “everything that we have here at Apes Hill,” showcasing his dedication to creating exceptional golf experiences until the end of his life.
Ron Kirby began his lifelong career in golf from humble beginnings as a caddie, caddie master, and maintenance crew member in Beverly, Massachusetts. He earned a bachelor's degree in agriculture from the University of Massachusetts-Stockbridge before starting his journey in golf course architecture in 1958 as a design associate for renowned architect Dick Wilson. By 1963, Kirby was working with Robert Trent Jones Sr., gaining valuable experience designing courses in the United States, Europe, and the Caribbean. In 1970, he founded his own design firm, with champion golfer Gary Player as a consulting partner.
Later, Kirby joined Nicklaus Design Services, overseeing many European projects. His course portfolio is extensive and global, including the celebrated Old Head Golf Links in Ireland, London Golf Club International Course, and Sun City Golf Course in South Africa. Kirby was respected for his collaborative spirit with legends like Jack Nicklaus and for his strategic design philosophy, valuing client needs above ego. He remained active and influential in golf course design until shortly before his passing.
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