Ron Kern, Golf Course Architect, ASGCA

Purgatory was designed by Ron Kern, a second generation golf course architect. Kern is a regular member of the American Society of Golf Course Architects, an organization that includes such notable architects as Robert Trent Jones, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio. Kern was sponsored into the ASGCA by Pete Dye and his father, Gary Kern.

Kern is a student of the game and a purist. He believes in and practices the traditional principles of golf course architecture as seen in the courses created by past masters such as Bill Diddel, Donald Ross, Alister MacKenzie and A.W. Tillinghast.

Kern believes in the strategic design of a golf course. That is, the risk and reward characteristics of the golf course will encourage the better player to gamble for the opportunity of an improved shot while providing a safer, alternate route for the average player. He believes that a great round of golf should require an effective strategy on the part of the player, while allowing enjoyment of the natural surroundings.

Kern believes that an architect’s design should reflect the nature of the land. His goal is to take what nature has created and discover the the best eighteen holes that exist on a particular piece of property. He knows that moving the least amount of dirt necessary saves money, but more importantly it also respects and maintains the natural beauty of the land. He believes that the land’s natural elements dictate the design of a golf course. A natural golf course, such as this, is a joy to play and beautiful to observe.

Kern’s approach to golf course architecture has made it possible to capture the natural challenges and beauty at Purgatory Golf Club.

A few of the other golf courses Kern has designed are:

• Evansville Country Club, (remodel), Evansville, Indiana
• Fox Run Golf Club, Eureka, Missouri
• Hanging Tree Golf Club, Westfield, Indiana
• Pebble Brook Golf and Country Club, North Course Noblesville, Indiana
• West Chase Golf Club, Brownsburg, Indiana

Kern is an artist by nature. In addition to his golf courses, Kern’s artistry shows in his magnificent black and white photography. His photography has been shown in exhibits, published in newspapers and is carried by a national art dealer.

Kern has a degree in civil engineering from Purdue University and on the job experience as a civil engineer. His passionate combination of artistic style and scientific background make it possible for him to create breathtaking golf courses that are not to be missed.