C.E. “Robbie” Robinson was responsible for designing some of Canada’s most beautiful and challenging golf courses. Born and raised in Quebec, Robinson graduated from the University of Toronto’s Agricultural College in Guelph, Ontario, in 1929. After graduation, Robinson would work under famous Canadian architect, Stanley Thompson. This led Robinson to a position as course manager and superintendent for one of Stanley Thompson’s courses, Sunningdale Country Club in London, Ontario.

After World War II and serving with the Royal Canadian Air Force, Robinson entered the practice as a golf course architect in 1948 and founded C.E. Robinson and Associates, Ltd., in 1961. During his time as a golf course architect, he would be known as an authoritative figure on turfgrass culture and how it was incorporated in his design work. Robinson also served as the Director of the Greens Section for the Royal Canadian Golf Association in the 1950s.

Robinson was elected into ASGCA in 1955. He served two terms as ASGCA President, from 1961-1962 and 1971-1972. Robinson reached Fellow status in 1977 and served as a member for 44 years until his death in 1989. Robison would be elected into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame in 2002.

“Robbie was a great mentor for me early in my career. He schooled me in the fundamentals of golf course design and the design principles of Stanley Thompson. He also encouraged me to join ASGCA and was my primary sponsor. The courses he was most proud of include Brudenell & Mill River on Prince Edward Island, Cedar brae, Credit Valley and Dalewood in Ontario and remodelling of two of Stanley Thompson’s greatest courses, St. George’s and Westmount, both in Ontario.”- Doug Carrick, ASGCA