Eddie Hackett

Eddie Hackett (1910–1996) is regarded as "the father of golf course design" in Ireland. Born in Dublin, he began designing in his late fifties with no formal training. He started as a clubmaker at Royal Dublin, became head professional at Portmarnock (1939), and designed over 100 projects. Hackett favoured working with the natural landscape: "I find that nature is the best architect." His courses feature visible landing areas, large greens, elevated tees, and minimal blind shots. He specialised in Irish west-coast links including Waterville, Donegal, and Carne. His affordable pricing and sensitivity to terrain made him the architect of choice in Ireland. A tuberculosis survivor, he took up golf on his doctor's advice.