Club and Resort Talks

Matt Lambert, General Manager/COO of The Country Club at Mirasol, and Tim Rayman, CEO of Greenleaf Hospitality Group and General Manager of Kalamazoo (Mich.) Country Club, join Rob Thomas on the Club + Resort Talks podcast. Lambert was named the 2025 Facility Manager of the Year by the Racquet Sports Professional Association (RSPA), Florida Division. This prestigious award recognizes facility leaders who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the advancement of racquet sports within their facilities and the professionals who support them. Tim Rayman discusses the extensive renovations at the Kalamazoo Country Club. The club, founded in 1909, is undergoing significant changes, including a new 11-hole short course designed by Andrew Green, set to open in Q1 2026. The new clubhouse will feature two restaurants, a 34-seat movie theater, a six-lane bowling alley, and multiple pools. Additionally, a new 18-hole championship course will be built on the existing 145 acres. The project aims to enhance member retention and recruitment by offering a wide range of amenities, including a golf Performance Center with advanced teaching technology. Also in the news ... A full remodel is underway at Desert Highlands to include enhanced lighting and expansive entrance in the golf shop, as well as self-serve comfort stations in the locker room. The Country Club of Whispering Pines and Foxfire Golf Club in the Sandhills of North Carolina have been acquired by Rolling Pines LLC, a newly formed management concern with the parent company of Mid Pines Development Group. KemperSports acquired Fire Pit Productions and named Matt Ginella Chief Storyteller, while also launching Youth Golf Week to inspire young players and grow the game through stories and community. And, Scarecrow, designed by David McLay Kidd, will open for public play on August 1. The course plays to a par of 71, stretches to 6,900 yards and is turfed with traditional fine fescue, which provides for firm and fast surfaces.

Rob Thomas and Mark Klinger, PGA General Manager of Barton Hills Country Club, discuss the club's renovations and future plans. Barton Hills, an 18-hole private club built by Donald Ross in 1919, is undergoing extensive renovations, including a golf course renovation by Andrew Green, lower level clubhouse renovations, and updates to tennis courts and HVAC systems. The club aims to enhance the member experience, making it a year-round destination. They are also preparing for the 2026 US Senior Women's Open. Klinger emphasizes communication with members and long-term strategic planning to maintain and improve the club's facilities and amenities. Also in the news ... This Texas Resort just launched a new dining yacht. The 85-foot Lady Bird II Dining Yacht at Horseshoe Bay Resort accommodates 30 to 85 guests and features customizable gourmet catering and entertainment choices. A Las Vegas Club tested a new bunker liner. PTI and Spanish Trail Country Club used a bunker renovation project as a test lab for a bunker-liner product. The waterless technology transforms natural crushed stone into a unique natural bunker liner. Lastly … The Silos GC launched a bold revival at the former Trussville CC. Six local investors set out to restore and reimagine the nearly 60-year-old Alabama club, with a focus on modern amenities, elevated course conditions, and renewed community engagement.

Kelley Brooke, CEO of Brooke Management Group, joins the Club + Resort Talks podcast to discuss the implementation of robot delivery at Harbor Links golf course. The course, which has 27 holes, aims to attract a younger demographic by modernizing its services. Brooke partnered with Robot.com to introduce food delivery robots, which have significantly increased food and beverage service, accounting for 35-40% of daily sales. The robots, which are GPS-guided and can handle various items, have attracted attention, including a visitor from California. Brooke emphasized the need for additional staff to support the new technology and plans to explore further technological advancements, such as advertising on the robots and using robots for maintenance tasks. Also in the news … Privé Padel has officially launched a high-end padel destination at the historic Montauk Yacht Club, marking the first-ever padel courts in Montauk and a major milestone for the sport’s presence in the Hamptons. Zinkand Golf Design is building a new 12-hole golf course at Chechessee Creek Club. Clever routing combines the opening five-hole loop geared toward higher handicap players with the final seven holes requiring greater strategic thought. Lastly, Evergreen Golf Course hits the market for $4.8M after sinkhole closure ends a 60-year run. After nearly six decades of operation and several months of closure, Evergreen Golf Course in East Hempfield Township has officially been listed for sale. The 70-acre property is being offered at $4.84 million by Iron Valley Real Estate of York County. The longtime family-owned course shuttered on April 30, after battling extensive and persistent sinkhole damage that made continued operations unsustainable.

Rob Thomas and Mike Poe, General Manager of Quintero Golf Club, discuss the club's renovation plans. Quintero, originally designed by Rees Jones, has seen a significant increase in rounds played from 10,000 to 40,000 annually. The renovation, expected to be completed in October, includes a full bunker and green renovation, focusing on maintaining the course's signature bent grass while improving playability. The project aims to enhance the course's ranking and customer experience. Poe emphasized a drip marketing strategy to build anticipation and highlighted future of possible development plans, including additional golf courses and facilities. Also in the news ... Club + Resort Business is launching an Engagement Summit to advance membership strategy and connection. The new event, set for October 5–6, 2025 at St. Andrews CC in Boca Raton, Fla., will bring together club professionals for focused education around attracting, retaining, and engaging members. A new short course is joining this Hawaiian golf experience. The new three-hole short course – “The Three Pearls” – offers fun and challenging play for golfers of all skill levels at Pearl at Kalauao on Oahu. With hole distances ranging from 40 to 60 yards, Nā Momi ʻEkolu is ideal for beginners, juniors, casual players and advanced golfers looking to sharpen their short games. The Club at New Seabury in Mashpee, Mass., is now part of the Concert Golf Partners family. Storied U.S. Open Champion Francis Ouimet once described the 300-acre oceanfront property as the “Pebble Beach of the East.” The Club at New Seabury on Cape Cod spans 300 acres, with nine holes alongside the ocean. And, the Mizner ‘A’ team kicks off a clubhouse renovation. The Delray Beach, Fla., club enlisted its junior construction team, who received a fun and educational lesson on the steps involved in upgrading life at Mizner Country Club.

Bryan Danehy, General Manager of the Country Club of York (CCY), discussed the club’s extensive renovations, including a $4 million pool complex and $2 million clubhouse upgrades. The pool, built in 1958, was leaking 13,000 gallons of water daily. The project, costing over $6 million, included a ballroom renovation, new lounge, and comprehensive pool facilities. Danehy highlighted the positive member feedback and the strategic planning process that began 10 years ago. He also addressed challenges in communication and construction, emphasizing the importance of regular updates and member engagement. Future plans include year-round programming, potential golf simulators, and continued community involvement. In other news … During the renovation at Quintero Golf Club in Peoria, Ariz., crews will rebuild all 18 green complexes and resurface them with 007XL Bent grass. All tee boxes will be laser-leveled and resurfaced with a new 419 Bermuda grass. All 65 bunkers will be renovated, as well. The Toro Company released its 2024 Sustainability Impact Report. The report highlights progress in innovation, efficiency, and workforce development, showcasing advancements in clean technology, waste reduction, and global partnerships to drive lasting environmental and social impact. And BallenIsles Country Club members complete a 1-in-17 million feat! Lori Garon and Lisa Hoberman each aced the 97-yard, par-3, second hole while playing in the same group. Longtime BallenIsles Country Club maintenance crew associate, Estequer Renoit, who had set the hole location earlier that morning, witnessed both of the holes-in-one.

Welcome to Club + Resort Talks, the podcast where we dive into the minds of industry leaders shaping the future of private clubs and luxury resorts. Today, we’re joined by Rob McNamara, General Manager and Director of Golf at Keswick Hall—former LSU All-American, U.S. Open competitor at just 17, and one of the game’s great storytellers. We’ll talk about hosting U.S. Open qualifiers, honoring Pete Dye’s legacy, and what it takes to deliver elite golf experiences in a resort setting. In the news … Michigan’s Harbor Shores breaks ground on its Wee Course with Colin Montgomerie. The five-acre, nine-hole pitch-and-putt course will open in 2026. The design will consist of holes measuring 60 yards or less modeled after the nine most iconic holes of the current Jack Nicklaus layout. In the sunshine state, the Florida Yacht Club charts a bold course with its FYC150 renovation. The multi-year initiative was timed to align with the Jacksonville club’s upcoming 150th anniversary and focused on preserving tradition while introducing modern amenities. Lastly, an industry coalition visited Capitol Hill to discuss Chinese low-speed vehicle imports. The meetings come at a critical time in the trade case, with the U.S. International Trade Commission’s final decision on tariffs expected within a couple of weeks.

Rob Thomas and James Symons, Director of Agronomy at Anthem Country Club, discuss the challenges and achievements of water conservation at the Las Vegas facility. Symons highlights the club’s efforts to reduce water usage by 25% by converting fairways from perennial ryegrass to Bermuda grass, saving nearly 50 million gallons in 2024. Despite member concerns, the transition was successful, with Bermuda grass providing better playability and water efficiency. Symons also mentions the use of advanced irrigation systems, soil sensors, and turf radar to optimize water usage. Looking ahead, Symons expresses concerns about future water scarcity and the need for continued proactive measures to sustain the club’s operations. Also in the news … Reynolds Lake Oconee announces its eighth golf course. Golf course architect Steve Smyers will design a new private course at the Central Georgia property. Fenmoor Golf Club is slated to open in Fall 2026. This Florida club completed a remarkable comeback after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Carrollwood Country Club’s three nine-hole golf courses were fully restored by early 2025. The Tampa, Fla., club has now returned to full operational excellence, making it difficult to detect that any severe weather events occurred last year. “We were prepared to recover fast,” says Brian Thornbury, Carrollwood’s General Manager. Now is the time to prepare. Lastly, Pebble Beach Golf Links will pursue a first-in-nation permit. California Coastkeeper Alliance, The Otter Project, Monterey Waterkeeper, and Pebble Beach Company announce a landmark initiative underscoring joint commitment to water quality in the Carmel Bay.

Rob Thomas interviews Michael Attara, President of Spirit Golf Management, about the company’s growth and initiatives. Spirit Golf, founded in 2009, focuses on customer service and player development in the Northeast. Attara highlights their involvement in National Golf Day, advocating for three key bills: the Farm Bill, the FIT Act, and the PAR Bill. They recently added Fairways Golf Club and are expanding services at Five Ponds Golf Club. Attara discusses their PGA Junior League, which connects kids with golf professionals, and their efforts to adapt to changing demographics and staffing challenges. He also mentions his role as Treasurer Secretary of Pennsylvania. Also in the news … Florida Club Undergoes $12M Transformation to Inspire the Next Generation The Miami Lakes (Fla.) Golf Club is revitalizing the golf experience while also introducing new amenities such as shopping, dining, entertainment, and residential components. Several new putting greens have been integrated into the layout specifically for youth practice, offering designated spaces where children can learn and play without interfering with regular course activity. Arizona Club Completes Desert Restoration Project The Club at Starr Pass in Tucson, Ariz., removed invasive species such as Salt Cedar, African Sumac, and Buffel Grass, opening the door for native plants to flourish and local wildlife to thrive. The invasive species removal was carried out by a team of environmental specialists in partnership with local conservation experts, ensuring minimal disruption to the natural habitat. And lastly, McConnell Golf files a lawsuit against The Cincinnati Insurance Company in the Wake County (N.C.) Superior Court for its refusal to fully cover extensive damages suffered by three McConnell Golf properties during Hurricane Helene in September of last year.

Rob Thomas interviews Chase Wilson, Director of Instruction at Columbus Country Club, about his experience at the PGA Professional Championship. Chase describes his daily responsibilities, including teaching, fittings, and junior programs. He details his preparation for the tournament, including playing rounds and using simulators. Despite missing the cut, Chase enjoyed competing at a high level and playing with top professionals. He emphasizes the importance of playing clean rounds and plans to improve for future events. Chase also discusses the support from his club and peers. Also in the news … Rome Country Club in New York partnered with Drone City to test drone and robotic dog deliveries of food and drinks to golfers mid-round. The trial showed promise, aiming to boost convenience, speed up play, and modernize on-course service. A North Carolina golf course plans a $1M upgrade to expand youth programs and community impact. The proposed upgrades at Hillandale Golf Course, pending approval by the Durham City Council, are centered around expanding access and resources for youth-focused initiatives. And last … GCSAA’s Rounds 4 Research again raises a record amount. Rounds 4 Research helps address a critical shortage of funding for ongoing, university-based agronomic research, education, advocacy programs and course operations. The national campaign is presented in partnership with The Toro Co.

Rob Thomas and Colin Burns, CCM discuss the evolution of the club industry, highlighting Burns’ 31-year tenure at Winged Foot Golf Club. Burns emphasizes the rising member expectations, driven by younger, wealthier demographics, and the importance of maintaining high standards. He notes the impact of technology, such as AI and integrated systems, on club operations. Burns also discusses the challenges of managing finances, labor, and member behavior. He advocates for inclusivity, particularly in hiring women and minorities, and stresses the need for strategic planning and communication. Burns concludes by predicting future opportunities and challenges, including the integration of women into leadership roles and the ongoing struggle with labor shortages. In the news this week … Wisconsin Course Moves Forward with Clubhouse Expansion, Simulator Addition The proposed project at Washington County Golf Course in West Bend, Wis., includes a remodel of the existing clubhouse along with a new addition that will feature indoor golf simulators. With the concept now approved, the plan moves into the final design phase. True Blue Golf Club Acquires Golf Academy The Pawleys Island, S.C., club acquired the Steve Dresser Golf Academy, a renowned instructional facility that has been a staple at the course for decades. “It’s business as usual when it comes to day-to-day operations,” says Bob Seganti, General Manager of True Blue and Caledonia. “What we’re focused on now is leveraging True Blue’s brand and marketing reach to bring greater visibility to the academy and its offerings.” NCA Names 2025-2026 Board of Directors, Executive Committee Michael McCarthy of Addison Reserve Country Club will lead as Chair. “NCA is privileged to have such knowledge, innovation and dedication on its Board of Directors,” says Joe Trauger, president and CEO.

Soren and Matthew Spiers, founding and senior partners of Visions Alliance, discuss their fractional CFO services for clubs. They help clubs manage financial systems, recruit and train controllers, and provide interim financial oversight. They emphasize the importance of internal controls, accurate budgeting, and key performance indicators (KPIs) like daily labor costs and cover counts. They share strategies for balancing member experience with financial stability, such as pay-as-you-go financing for capital projects. Looking ahead, they predict a focus on wellness and lifestyle amenities to attract younger members. Visions Alliance aims to enhance club operations through efficient financial management and best practices. Insights – Labor cost management is a critical concern for clubs, especially during busy seasons. – Financial blind spots include lack of internal controls and not following best practices. – Human resource regulatory obligations pose significant risks if not properly managed. – Aging membership can be reluctant to invest in long-term club improvements. Also on this episode of the Club + Resort Talks podcast … Baker City, Ore., is upgrading its Quail Ridge Golf Course with a $1.3M irrigation system to conserve water and support tourism. Despite adding 450 sprinkler heads, the new system at Quail Ridge significantly improves efficiency by allowing individual control of each of the 650 heads. Troon will provide development services at Three Bridges, a new luxury residential-resort community in Salem, Utah. In addition, when community amenities begin to open in 2026, Troon Privé, the private club operating division of Troon, will manage club operations, agronomy, food & beverage, and membership sales and marketing. Three Bridges will feature multiple lifestyle amenities including an 18-hole Robert Trent Jones II designed golf course and an all-season pickleball and indoor golf facility, hiking and biking trails. Last, but not least, Erie County, N.Y., plans to convert the former Westwood Country Club into Willowdale Park, featuring a restored nine-hole golf course, trails, and inclusive amenities, with funding secured and public opening set for 2026.

Joe Roediger, COO, discussed Woodmont Country Club’s extensive sustainability initiatives across two 18-hole golf courses, six indoor tennis courts, and a 100,000 sq. ft. clubhouse. The club has eliminated single-use plastic bottles, implemented autonomous gas-free mowers, and battery-powered maintenance equipment, reducing operational costs. They’ve also introduced native grasses for water conservation and GPS-guided sprayers for a 15% reduction in fertilizer use. LED lighting and a water recycling system have significantly cut energy and water consumption. Future goals include more autonomous mowers and solar panel implementation. Roediger emphasized empowering leaders to identify and capitalize on sustainability opportunities. Also in this episode … A short course readies for debut at an Indiana resort. The Sand Creek Course at French Lick, which features nine holes ranging between 40 and 90 yards, is set for opening day on May 1. This brings French Lick Resort to a total of 54 holes of golf resort-wide, complementing the 18-hole championship Pete Dye and Donald Ross courses and the 9-hole Valley Links. A Florida course is adding a state-of-the-art driving range and golf learning center. The new facility at Dubsdread Golf Course in Orlando, Fla., will feature 40 total bays, 36 outfitted with advanced golf technology for an interactive experience and four traditional bays. The learning center includes two private teaching bays featuring full Trackman technology for precision training and custom fitting. And a New York club wins an injured-golfer case in Court of Appeals. The New York State Court of Appeals issued a unanimous decision stating that the Cazenovia (N.Y.) Golf Club is not liable for injuries sustained by a golfer who was struck by an errant golf ball while playing the course. The victory sets a precedent that will help protect golf course businesses.

Rob Thomas, Editor-in-Chief of Club + Resort Business chats with Steve Skinner, CEO of KemperSports, about the company’s new partnership with Touchstone Golf. KemperSports, a 45-year-old golf management company with more than 200 properties in 35 states, has partnered with Touchstone Golf, which manages 41 properties primarily in the western U.S. The partnership aims to leverage each other’s expertise, particularly in third-party management and local market knowledge. Skinner highlights the importance of technology and innovation in enhancing the golf experience and discusses future growth plans, including potential acquisitions and expanding into new markets. He also expresses optimism about the industry’s future, driven by a new generation of golfers. Also in the news, the six-month golf course renovation project at the Okatie Creek Golf Course at Sun City Hilton Head in Bluffton, S.C., focuses on enhancing turf conditions and playability. As part of the course renovation, all greens will be hulled out and re-grassed with Tif Eagle turf, while fairways and tee boxes will be re-grassed with Celebration turf. Read about four ways clubs can leverage technology for workforce efficiency. Joe Morrison, Director of Business Development at Adams Keegan, says technology is revolutionizing many aspects of our lives, and country clubs are no exception. These institutions are increasingly adopting solutions to enhance efficiency. When integrated thoughtfully, technology can streamline operations, improve member experiences, and enhance workforce productivity, all while maintaining the personal touch that members value most. Lastly, a Florida Club hosts its annual ‘Celebration of Creativity’ member art show. The annual art show at Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club in Vero Beach, Fla., included an artwork pop-up featuring 24 paintings for sale benefiting The Learning Alliance. “Supporting the community through philanthropic efforts is so important to our members,” says General Manager Rob Tench.

Steve Birdwell, President of Sea Pines Resort, joins the Club + Resort Podcast to discuss the resort’s 70-year history and recent transformations with host Rob Thomas. Key investments include rebuilding three golf courses, constructing two clubhouses, and renovating the Sea Pines Beach Club. The Harbor Town course will close for six months starting early May for green replacement and other improvements. Riverstone Group’s long-term ownership and commitment to the community are highlighted. Future plans include expanding the spa, adding retail, and enhancing parking. The resort, consistently ranked among top resorts, emphasizes guest service and employee housing through the Palmetto Village project. The RBC Heritage event, featuring 46 of the top 50 players, is also discussed. Also on this episode … Diamond Run Golf Club in Sewickley, Pa., opened its new restaurant, Steel & Oak, which celebrates Pittsburgh’s reputation as “Steel City” through intentional design features throughout the dining room that combine steel with wood. Through a collaboration with Chicago School of Golf, Vernon Hills (Ill.) Golf Course will offer comprehensive instructional programs, including junior golf, beginner-friendly adult clinics, and competitive development opportunities. Lastly, Pelican Isle Yacht Club in Naples, Fla., hosted a fleet review and blessing of the fleet. The brand-new facility includes in-water floating slips as well as lifts accommodating vessels up to 55 feet. The event featured 16 PIYC member vessels, along with appearances from the North Naples Fire Department.

Jonathan Moulton, the Superintendent at Martis Camp in Truckee, Calif., discussed the challenges of managing a golf course in a climate that experiences extreme weather conditions, including significant snowfall and temperature fluctuations. He highlighted the impact of climate change on their region, noting less monsoonal rain and more record-breaking weather events. Moulton detailed their strategies for transitioning the course from winter dormancy to playable conditions, including the use of black sand and compost for snow melt and the monitoring of ice damage. He also mentioned their efforts to balance sustainability with efficiency and the importance of planning and flexibility in their operations. Also in the news … A Colorado club completes a multi-million-dollar transformation. The Pinery Country Club in Parker, Colo., created an open clubhouse flow that fosters a warm, social club culture. The fireplace lounge flows to the bar, allowing members to gather spontaneously, while the outdoor patio has been renovated as an extension of the main dining room, with seating for 100 guests. Indigo Sports, a Troon company, will oversee golf operations, agronomy, food and beverage, and sales and marketing at The Salt Pond Golf Club, a daily-fee course in Bethany Beach, Del. Lastly, Pebble Beach Resorts and the USGA unveiled the championship logo to kick off the 2027 U.S. Open. The official logo for the 127th U.S. Open incorporates enduring symbols of Pebble Beach and the championship’s legacy, such as the lone Cypress—a defining symbol of Pebble Beach since its founding in 1919—and seven stars commemorating the seventh U.S. Open contested at Pebble Beach Golf Links.

Trey Bayliss, General Manager/CEO of Pinehurst Country Club in Denver, Colo., and Christina Wynn, the club’s Director of Communications, joined Rob Thomas on the Club + Resort Talks podcast to discuss a $21.5 million capital plan for the club. Key projects include golf course repairs, a new pool with a resort-style snack bar, and upgraded cart paths. The golf course renovations will address erosion and degradation, with work starting in 2027. The new pool, expected to cost $9 million, will feature a zero-entry area, a kiddie pool, and a splash pad. The club also plans to install lights at the racquet sports facility to extend play into shoulder seasons. Also in the news, the extensive renovation project at Monterey Peninsula Country Club is nearing completion. The current project by Zinkand Golf Design, the third phase of the master plan, touches all of the Shore Course’s bunkers and waste areas; each is receiving new drainage and capillary flow liners. The extensive upgrades at Boca Royale Golf & Country Club in Wellen Park, Fla., include reimagined pools, restaurants, a bar, and a pro shop, along with the addition of a spacious outdoor dining pavilion. The community’s 18-hole semi-private championship golf course underwent significant improvements, as well. Lastly, Arcis Golf continues its partnership with Els for Autism. Purchases—including merchandise, food and beverage, and golf—made by Arcis Golf club members and guests are “rounded up” to the nearest dollar with the round-up amounts donated to Els for Autism.

Mark Rummings, General Manager of Soleta Golf Club in Myakka City, Fla., joined the Club + Resort Talks podcast to discuss the club's progress and future plans. The golf course, designed by Nick Price, opened four months ago and features 93 homes, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a Performance Center. The club has 200 members and aims for 275 local and 75 national members. Upcoming amenities include a six-hole short course, a putting course, and a driving range with TopTracer technology. The club also plans to develop a 20-acre fishing lake and 200 acres of trails. Rummings emphasized the club's focus on member experience and high-quality golf. In other news, Hunters Run Country Club in Boynton Beach, Fla., introduced its New Year Fitness Challenge: an eight-week initiative designed to encourage employees to adopt healthier habits, build strength, and improve their overall vitality. The Wilds Golf Club in Prior Lake, Minn., and Geneva Golf Club in Alexandria, Minn., will be Troon-affiliated facilities, with the golf management company supporting regional and national sales and marketing efforts for these properties. Lastly, the USGA released its Water Conservation Playbook. The free publication is structured in three sections: fundamental irrigation stewardship (basic maintenance best practices that every golf course could employ); advanced irrigation techniques and conservation strategies (including sensor and irrigation technology) and water sourcing and stewardship (including irrigating with reclaimed or recycled water).

On this episode of the Club + Resort Talks podcast, Rob Thomas and Shane Labuschagne discuss the evolution of wellness at The Oaks Club in Osprey, Fla., where Shane serves as the Director of Wellness and Fitness. Shane highlights the club’s focus on integrating wellness into various activities, such as golf and racket sports, through initiatives like the “wellfit zone.” He notes a 100% growth in Pilates sessions among members aged 62-65. The club is planning a small expansion and a larger master plan to accommodate growing demand. Shane also introduces Execufy, a networking platform for private club professionals, aiming to foster collaboration and idea sharing across the hospitality industry. In other news around the club industry, the greenside bunker renovation project at Tidewater Golf Club in North Myrtle Beach, S.C., included the renovation of all greenside bunkers, repaired drainage, reshaped bunkers for increased playability and aesthetic benefits, and renovated several fairway bunkers to improve sight lines and reduce hidden hazards. The Cowlitz Tribe decided not to move forward with purchasing the Tri-Mountain Golf Course in Ridgefield, Wash. While no clear explanation was given, the county’s requirement that the course continue to operate as a public facility may have been a contributing factor. Lastly, Donald P. Emery, CCM, CCE, General Manager/COO at Grey Oaks Country Club in Naples, Fla., initiated the Emery Family Fund with a desire to make a difference in the club industry and encourage others to contribute to support all those who benefit from The Club Foundation’s work.

Rob Thomas, Editor-in-Chief of Club + Resort Business, and Ryan Pensy, VP of Strategic Partnerships at Troon, discuss Troon’s expansive golf management operations, managing more than 900 properties in 35 countries and employing 35,000 associates. Troon’s unique marketing assets include insights on core golf consumers, which attract non-endemic brands like Fubo TV and Visa. Troon’s digital evolution enhances consumer understanding through data-driven strategies. Troon’s rewards program, with more than 850,000 members, integrates brands to drive loyalty. Experiential events, like the Cobra Puma Pro-Am at Pebble Beach, deepen brand connections. Future trends focus on reaching new golf demographics and adapting marketing strategies to evolving consumer preferences. Also in this episode of the Club + Resort Talks podcast: Golf course architect Scot Sherman, a longtime disciple of Pete Dye, will enhance Keswick Hall’s Full Cry golf course in Charlottesville, Va. The property is hosting a 2025 U.S. Open Championship local qualifier in May and the 100th playing of the Virginia State Golf Association Women’s Amateur Championship in July. The Toftrees Golf Resort in State College, Pa., is undergoing a major renovation project at the hands of Jim Nagle of Nagle Design Works. Design planning is starting immediately, but no date has yet been set for construction to begin. And lastly, Audubon International green-lights a development to pursue Signature Platinum Certification. Once complete, Esencia in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico will feature signature amenities and experiences for leisure, wellness, culture, and everyday living, including two golf courses (one of which is designed by Rees Jones), hiking and biking trails, spa and wellness offerings, sports and racquet clubs, an equestrian center, and more.

Jay Karen, CEO of the National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA), joined Rob Thomas on the Club + Resort Talks podcast to discuss the organization’s role in advocacy, education, and trade association services for golf course owners. He highlighted Google’s entry into the tee time market, emphasizing the need for direct booking links to avoid third-party aggregators. Karen also addressed the impact of AI on golf operations, predicting widespread adoption of gamified driving ranges and simulators. He noted the rising golf prices due to inflation and the importance of municipal golf courses for affordability. Legal issues, such as liability for errant golf balls, were also discussed, with Karen emphasizing the need for connective tissue between green grass and off-course digital golf experiences. Also in the news, which was sponsored by KE Camps, Sarasota National in Venice, Fla., enlisted Fry/Straka Global Golf Course Design to enhance the course’s playability for all skill levels and improve sustainability, while seamlessly tying-in the natural beauty of the Audubon International Certified Signature Sanctuary. Wayzata (Minn.) Country Club will close its golf course in summer 2025 to complete a comprehensive $15M renovation, with plans to reopen by June 2026. In addition to regrassing the entire course with 007 bent grass, updates feature new tee boxes, including forward tees on every hole, reshaped greens, and a modernized irrigation system. An 18-hole putting course will also be added as part of the enhancements. And … U.S. tennis participation has surged to a new high of 25.7 million players! The nearly two million player increase from 2023 marks a significant acceleration in excess of eight percent growth. Retained and returning players are on the rise with a 5 percent increase in retention rates over 2023 reaching a five-year high, while those who returned to the game after a break of at least one year rose 9 percent.