Biography

Donald Maclennan Arklay Steel, born in 1937, was an acclaimed sportsman and an accomplished journalist known for his contributions to golf journalism and course design. His passion for the sport began at Cambridge University where he excelled in golf and cricket. Steel's professional journey took him from the golf greens to the newsroom, where he worked as a golf correspondent for the Sunday Telegraph from 1961 until 1989. It was during his journalistic career that he crossed paths with Ken Cotton, a golf course architect. Steel’s visit to Cotton's courses solidified his interest in golf architecture, leading him to become a partner in Cotton’s design firm.

Before retiring from journalism, Steel founded his own golf course design company. His design philosophy leaned towards a natural and traditional approach, insisting that landscapes should only be altered for golf courses as a last resort. "Good courses protect the environment, bad designs disfigure it," he opined. In a 1974 article, Steel emphasized the importance of enjoyment in golfing, cautioning against the trend of prioritizing spectacle and difficulty over player satisfaction.

Steel's knowledge and philosophy not only encompassed the aesthetics and functionality of golf courses but also delved into the strategical aspects, such as bunker and hazard placement, which should challenge and captivate players without being overly difficult. He was also a keen advocate for the integration of trees in course design as a means of enhancing the character and essence of a hole, often stating that "one single tree can 'make' it".

Steel's prominence in the world of golf course architecture saw him working in over 25 countries, including advising every club or course associated with the Open Championship. His work left an indelible mark on the sport, merging his passion for journalism, golf, and the natural environment within his designs.