Many good judges would argue that Harry Shapland Colt, with his key role in the evolution of Golden Age design and the list of great links and heath courses that bear his name, is golf's greatest ever architect. Colt's maxim: 'The real test of a course: is it going to live?' still holds true as a measure of golf architecture even today; and his own courses live large in the memories of those lucky enough to play them.

Creating Classics tells the story of this visionary. From Colt's early years at Rye and Sunningdale to his partnerships with the other great architects of the early 20th century, the book embraces the phenomenal designs that emerged from this Golden Age of course construction.

Peter Pugh's book lets players discover the heritage of their favourite golfing turf. Colt's definitive 18 holes, as chosen by golf commentator Bruce Critchley, and a foreword from five-time Open champion Peter Thomson, accompany stunning photographs and personal tales.

Author Pugh is a member of two of Colt's courses, Royal Lytham and Royal Worlington.

Icon Books, £40

This article first appeared in issue 15 of Golf Course Architecture, published in January 2009.