Ian Baker-Finch was born in Nambour, Queensland. Within just a few suburbs, three of Australian golf's most predominant figures; Greg Norman, Wayne Grady, and Ian Baker-Finch grew up. Baker-Finch was born in October 1960, turning pro in 1979.
Best known for winning The Open in 1991, Baker-Finch managed two PGA and European tours, three Japanese golf tours, and ten Australasian PGA titles in a 20-plus-year career. Considered an endearing person and known for charitable donations, his reputation as a golfer and person made him an advertisement for the sport.
Open, natural feeling courses that require fast play are his favorite traits when it comes to courses in his homeland. Walkability and visibility from the tee are also tropes he's drawn to. The Links-Kenndy Bay, designed as a team with Michael Coate and Roger MacKay, is perhaps his crowning jewel as an architect. Forty minutes from Perth CBD, the authentic links layout borrows from its Scottish inspirations and is considered a must-do for West Australian golfers.
The Bintan Lagoon Resort in Indonesia is another well-regarded course-and also a tandem design. Along with the legendary Jack Nicklaus, the course occupies its natural forestation to create a fantastic visual sight while also using the bold valleys smartly. Baker-Finch now resides in Palm Beach, Florida with his wife and two daughters. He mostly works as a commentator.
