Editor: Adam Lawrence
Publication manager: Benedict Pask

The 50th issue of Golf Course Architecture features on its cover the spectacular Lofoten Links course in Northern Norway, which has recently been expanded to 18 holes. GCA pays a visit to find out what’s on offer.

An adequate fairway width is essential if holes are to present a strategic challenge. But the more maintained grass a hole has, the more it costs to keep in good shape. In the lead feature of our October 2017 issue, Adam Lawrence asks architects what the best way to strike the perfect balance is.

The lead story in the tee box section of the magazine features the impressive new golf course on the outskirts of Las Vegas – The Summit. Designed by Tom Fazio, we speak to the architect about the layout and pick out some of the highlights. Also in the tee box section, we talk to Gil Hanse about Streamsong Black, take a look at the recently-restored Pandy Bunker at Ganton Golf Club, and profile the latest design from Lester George, who has been hired to draw up plans for a new course in Virginia.

This issue also includes an article from Quinn Thompson on the Japanese phenomenon that is park golf, Drew Rogers discusses his recent work at Miromar Lakes, Peter Harradine explains the differences when designing course in the Middle East and northern and central Europe, and Neil Crafter profiles the work of arguably Australia’s greatest golf architect – Alex Russell.

This issue also includes visits to New Orleans’ newest course Bayou Oaks, Northwood Club in Dallas, and we take a look at how St Andrews Links is supporting sustainable wildflower and wildlife habitats.