Club and Resort Talks

Matt Welter, Founder of Dormy House, joins Rob Thomas on the Club + Resort Talks podcast to discuss the introduction of a housing solution. Dormy House is a unique business that’s focused on creating affordable housing solutions for club and resort employees, especially those in rural and remote areas where inventory is low and people may be priced out of the market. The founder is a real estate developer and former caddie and it was his experience as a caddie, with lengthy commutes and limited housing options near the courses where he worked, that inspired him to find a solution for workforce housing. He works with the team at Bandon Dunes and has already developed two buildings onsite for its employees. Also on this episode of the Club + Resort Talks podcast … The Saddlebrook Resort in Pasco County, Fla., is set for a sweeping transformation, thanks to a $72.5 million loan secured by its developers, Mast Capital and Amzak Capital Management. The loan was provided by Beach Point Capital Management to fund a portion of the $92 million redevelopment of the 480-acre Wesley Chapel property, which Mast Capital purchased in 2022. The redevelopment plan will encompass a complete redesign of the resort’s guestroom suites, lobby, meeting spaces, pool and outdoor areas, golf courses, and food and beverage facilities. Additional upgrades include significant enhancements to the resort’s landscaping, sports facilities, and lifestyle amenities. Meadowbrook Golf Course in Lubbock, Texas, is preparing for a new chapter in its nearly century-long history. Established in the 1930s, the course has been a cornerstone of the local golfing community. Now under the management of Orion Golf, Meadowbrook is set to receive comprehensive upgrades aimed at revitalizing its facilities and programs. The new management plans to enhance the course’s playability, amenities, and overall accessibility for the Lubbock community. Improvements will include new kitchen equipment, an expanded food menu, clubhouse renovations, and the introduction of golf leagues and clinics. These upgrades are designed to create a consistent, high-quality experience that caters to a broad range of golfers and visitors. Lastly, Bobby Jones Links is now managing two well-known daily-fee golf courses in the Detroit, Mich. area, Sugarbush Golf Club and The Captain’s Club Golf and Event Center. Operated by private ownership, sister courses Sugarbush and The Captain’s Club have become popular community attractions in their respective enclaves within Michigan’s Genesee County. Both courses have thriving junior golf programs and event calendars and have become beloved destinations for golfers, restaurant patrons and the community overall.

Christine Kane, CEO of Audubon International, joined Rob Thomas, Editor-in-Chief of Club + Resort Business, on The Club Resort Talks Podcast to discuss the organization’s mission, recent growth, and the increasing importance of sustainability across industries. Audubon International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping property managers and owners implement sustainable practices. “We use education, technical assistance, and voluntary certifications to help people start their sustainability journey and keep moving forward,” Kane explained. The organization’s programs span golf courses, hotels, resorts, and even municipalities, offering a range of certifications tailored to the unique needs of each sector. Also on this episode of the podcast … Thomas shares news about Vineyards Country Club completing a renovation of its North Course. Led by architect Kipp Schulties, the Naples, Fla., club expanded yardage from the professional tees to bring the course up to championship level, re-turfed with Bimini Bermudagrass on tees, fairways and roughs, complemented by TifEagle greens for optimal playability and resilience, and more. A Florida resort marked its first milestone in an expansive $92 million revitalization. Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel, Fla., unveiled its new 13-acre driving range. The facility features a double-sided driving range, two TifEagle bermudagrass putting greens, and three short game areas complete with greenside bunkers. Lastly, Kawonu Golf Club appointed a clubhouse architect. Joel Newman, a partner in Thomas and Denzinger Architects, has been named to design the clubhouse, lodging, training center, and comfort stations. Kawonu Golf Club is the first private golf course to be built in Greenville, S.C., in more than 30 years.

Shawn Cox, PGA Director of Golf at Sharon Heights Golf & Country Club joined Rob Thomas on the Club + Resort Talks podcast to discuss the recent golf course renovation, as well as an upcoming addition to the club. The club reopened with a refreshed and enhanced golf experience after a $23 million renovation by Todd Eckenrode and Origins Golf Design. Approved by the club in 2019, this comprehensive redesign spanned all 18 holes and was crafted to create a more engaging layout, elevate aesthetics, and support the club’s sustainability goals. The club also secured the green light for a 15,000-sq.-ft., state-of-the-art facility which will serve as a maintenance and operations center. It is seen as a landmark in sustainable renovation and environmental stewardship. Also in the news … After more than a century of serving its members and the Wheeling, W.Va., community, the Wheeling Country Club has announced plans to close on Dec. 31. The decision comes after years of significant challenges, as shared in a letter sent to members. The club has pledged to continue providing exceptional service and experiences for all guests and events until its final day of operation. Meanwhile, discussions are underway to explore future uses for the property. Collaborations with Oglebay and other local stakeholders are being considered as part of this process. Heritage Golf Group, an owner and operator of private country clubs and high-end daily-fee courses across the U.S., acquired its 39th club, Ptarmigan Country Club in Fort Collins, Colo. The Flack family, who owned the club for more than 20 years, selected Heritage as the purchaser. This acquisition marks Heritage’s fourth property in the Greater Denver area, further strengthening its presence in Colorado. The other three properties in the area are award-winning daily fee courses: The Golf Club at Bear Dance, Plum Creek Golf Club, and Colorado National Golf Club. Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel has unveiled a state-of-the-art indoor golf and entertainment venue, Circling Raven Golf Suites, where golfers and non-golfers can immerse themselves in interactive fun, choosing from a variety of games. With access to more than 80 iconic courses like The Old Course at St. Andrews and Pebble Beach, the simulators bring every slope, tree, and green to life with breathtaking detail. Between games, guests can relax in style with plush lounge seating, HDTVs, and music, while savoring food and drinks delivered from select casino eateries.

Frank Weed, CEO of Panther National, joined Rob Thomas on the Club + Resort Talks podcast to discuss everything from the Jack Nicklaus/Justin Thomas-designed golf course to the spectacular clubhouse that’s planned for the community. Swiss skiing legend Dominik Senn is creating a world-class experience in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Also on the podcast: Palmetto Bluff announced plans for a new Coore & Crenshaw golf course. Sited on approximately 500 acres in South Carolina Lowcountry and estimated to open Winter 2025-26, the yet-to-be-named course’s first phase of construction will include the golf course, a maintenance facility and temporary amenities, with a clubhouse planned for a second phase. A bunker renovation is elevating the golf experience at this Tennessee club. Holston Hills Country Club in Knoxville, Tenn. enlisted Kris Spence and his team to improve bunker playability and drainage across the course. Spence and Superintendent Ryan Blair relied on a careful study of old aerial photos, course maps, and Donald Ross’ original drawings to preserve the integrity of the original design. And last, but not least … Happy 25th Birthday to Mizner Country Club! The Grande Clubhouse, a two-story hub designed in old-world style, will soon undergo extensive renovations beginning in June 2025. This update will bring a fresh look and enhanced functionality to Mizner’s gathering spaces, including: Lobby, Men’s & Ladies’ Bathrooms, One Mile Bar & Grill, The Dining Room, New Outside Covered Terrace, and Kitchen Upgrades.

Wes Forester, PGA Director of Golf at Reynolds Lake Oconee joined Rob Thomas on the Club + Resort Talks podcast to discuss Richland—the seventh golf course at the Greensboro, Ga. property. The new 18-hole layout was created by acclaimed course architect Tom Fazio by combining nine holes from his existing National course with nine all-new holes. This gives Reynolds Lake Oconee two Fazio designs (Richland and The National) along with courses from Jack Nicklaus (Great Waters), Rees Jones (The Oconee), Jim Engh (Creek Club), and two by Bob Cupp (The Preserve and The Landing). The new Richland turns the Bluff nine from the original, Fazio-designed National—with some recent modifications—into holes 1 through 5 and 15 through 18. The new holes, 6 through 14, traverse the peninsula of Reynolds and tumbles down to the Richland side of Lake Oconee. The resulting layout provides plenty of challenge with fescue-lined fairways, numerous bunkers, and dramatic elevation changes. Among the changes to the nine Bluff holes were removing or repositioning bunkers, adding new ones, and combining smaller bunkers to create larger ones. Some greens have been reshaped and/or moved, often bringing the lake more into play. New fescue native areas and low-mow chipping areas were also added on some holes. The new nine utilizes significant elevation change to put an emphasis on club selection and angle of attack. Players will encounter doglegs, a deep valley and big ravine, plus sloping greens and strategically placed bunkering. They’ll also have the chance to refresh themselves at a new halfway house – The Turn – between holes 9 and 10. The Turn is a mobile food truck that will serve burgers, sandwiches, wraps and a full array of beverages. Also on this podcast … In the world of golf clubs, resorts, and hospitality venues, delivering unforgettable player experiences is paramount, and effective team communication plays a central role in achieving this. Elle Ferebee, Senior Account Executive at Relay, highlights how the right communication tools not only streamline team interactions but also help transform member experiences into something truly memorable. The Glen Ridge (N.J.) Country Club’s planned expansion includes constructing a children’s pool and removing 56 trees, raising concerns among neighboring residents. The proposed pool placement—just 13 feet from the property line—requires a variance, as local law typically mandates a 100-foot setback. The Zoning Board of Adjustment was scheduled to review these variance requests Nov. 14. Findings have yet to be announced. One local resident expressed concerns about the impact of the expansion on noise levels in the area. Two years into a significant restoration effort, Asheville, N.C.’s historic Municipal Golf Course, known affectionately as “Muni,” is facing severe setbacks after Tropical Storm Helene. The city was close to completing multimillion-dollar improvements across the course’s 18 holes, including upgrades to fairways, bunkers, cart paths, and greens, along with extensive stormwater system repairs. However, after Helene swept through on Sept. 27, the Swannanoa River, which runs beside the course, overflowed to more than 26 feet, submerging the surrounding areas. The resulting floodwaters inundated Muni’s front nine holes, with water and debris gushing from drainage inlets, undermining the turf and reversing much of the recent improvement work.

Matt Adamski, General Manager of Sweetens Cove Golf Club, joins Rob Thomas on the Club + Resort Talks podcast to discuss big plans for America’s Sweetheart. Sweetens Cove, a 9-hole course in South Pittsburg, Tenn. known for its cult following and distinctive approach to golf, is set to expand. While the main course will remain at nine holes, the club is adding a par-3 short course along with a range of new amenities aimed at enhancing its appeal to traveling golfers. The expansion includes stay-and-play cabins, a restaurant, a distillery, a putting green, a fishing dock, and a skeet shooting range, designed to create a comprehensive destination experience. The original architects of Sweetens Cove, Rob Collins and Tad King, will return to design the new short course. Known for their work at Landmand in Nebraska, their new design will emphasize creativity and flexibility, allowing golfers to experience the course in multiple ways. Also on this podcast, Thomas shares news out of PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.; Sharon Heights Golf & Country Club in Menlo Park, Calif.; and Contra Costa Country Club in Pleasant Hill, Calif. PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., is poised for a significant ownership change, with reports indicating a potential sale to Henderson Park, a London-based private equity real estate firm, for $425 million. This price reflects approximately $1.3 million per room, positioning the resort as a high-value property in the competitive luxury golf market. The 800-acre resort has seen multiple ownership changes over the years. Its current owner, Toronto-based Brookfield Asset Management, acquired PGA National in 2018 for $218 million. Since then, Brookfield invested more than $100 million in comprehensive renovations, enhancing the hotel, spa, restaurants, lobby, and its six golf courses. Sharon Heights Golf & Country Club in Menlo Park, Calif., has reopened with a refreshed and enhanced golf experience after a $23 million renovation by Todd Eckenrode and Origins Golf Design. Approved by the club in 2019, this comprehensive redesign spanned all 18 holes and was crafted to create a more engaging layout, elevate aesthetics, and support the club’s sustainability goals. The extensive renovation, which began in April 2023, revamped all tees, fairways, bunkers, and greens. The design incorporated strategic widths that add variety to each play, unveiling new layers of challenge and enjoyment for golfers. Eckenrode’s vision resulted in what members now enjoy as a transformed course with a unique, engaging experience. Lastly, members of Contra Costa Country Club in Pleasant Hill, Calif. recently raised $54,000 for PLAY for P.I.N.K., a national charity funding breast cancer research, with more donations still coming in. Funds were raised through a Sept. 13 golf tournament, dinner and silent auction for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the last two years the club has raised $99,000 for breast cancer research and awareness, and since 2012 more than $192,000.

B.K. Browne, CEO and Founder of SpeakSport, introduces the cutting-edge technology on the Club + Resort Talks podcast. With this innovative A.I. technology, clubs can free up hours of time every day from answering the phone for tee time bookings and miscellaneous questions—allowing them to drive revenue, and divert valuable human resources elsewhere, such as providing personalized service to guests/members on-site. Also on this podcast: Canyon Springs Golf Course, nestled along the Snake River in Twin Falls, Idaho, is on the market, with an $18.5 million price tag. The expansive listing includes direct access to the Snake River, Centennial Park, and views of the impressive Perrine Coulee waterfall, along with amenities like a geothermal artesian well, a full-service bar, restaurant, and pro shop overlooking the Snake River and Perrine Bridge. Water rights, springs, and Idaho’s highly coveted liquor license add to the property’s appeal, making it an attractive recreational destination in Idaho’s scenic heart. Baltimore County, Md. has announced a substantial $6.5 million investment to overhaul the Rocky Point Golf Course clubhouse, marking a significant shift from the usual self-funding approach managed by the Baltimore County Revenue Authority. County Executive Johnny Olszewski, Jr. introduced the initiative, which will transform the decades-old clubhouse with a “grill room,” updated kitchen, patio seating, a pro shop, and expanded banquet space. The project is a complete renovation, a move Olszewski says aligns with the county’s broader recreational investment priorities. Lastly, the 41st annual Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship continues to be one of the Grand Strand’s most significant events, driving economic impact and exposure for “The Golf Capital of the World.” Based on Destinations International (DI) calculations, the standard for measuring the effect events have on communities, the World Amateur Championship generated a total economic impact of $17.1 million for the local economy, with $11.1 million in direct impact and $6 million in non-direct and induced spending

Mark Bado, General Manager/COO of Mizner Country Club in Delray Beach, Fla. joins the Club + Resort Talks podcast to discuss plans for a comprehensive renovation of its main clubhouse, with construction slated to begin in June 2025. The renovation will encompass key areas of the clubhouse, enhancing the facility’s aesthetic appeal and functionality. It will be designed to ensure members enjoy an elevated experience. The renovation will focus on several areas, including: – Lobby: A refreshed, modern design to create a welcoming first impression for all members and guests. – Men’s & ladies’ bathrooms: Upgraded amenities designed to provide increased comfort and style. – One Mile Bar & Grill: A reimagined space with updates to elevate both dining and social experiences. – Dining room: Enhancements that will further enrich culinary offerings and the overall dining experience. – New outside covered terrace: Adjacent to the One Mile Bar & Grill, this outdoor addition will provide new opportunities for alfresco dining and social gatherings. – Kitchen upgrades: New state-of-the-art kitchen equipment will better support both banquet and à la carte services. The walk-in cooler/freezer relocation will streamline the kitchen layout, improving efficiency and accommodating the increased demand for expanded services. Bado noted, “This marks another milestone in our ever-expanding commitment to offering our members services that exceed expectations. The main clubhouse has long served as a place for comfort, socialization, and the enjoyment offered by our superior culinary staff. We are confident these updates will elevate the quality and functionality of our facilities. These upgrades will also solidify Mizner Country Club’s position as a premier country club for its members and guests, offering both enhanced amenities and a luxurious atmosphere.” Also on the podcast: The development of a proposed Sports Illustrated Resort in Tuscaloosa, Ala. has been put on hold after the city council opted to delay the project during their latest meeting. This decision comes in response to strong opposition from residents, which was voiced during a recent public hearing. Concerns raised by the community primarily centered around the design of the resort, infrastructure issues, and the potential increase in traffic. The development faced significant pushback from locals who felt the current proposal did not adequately address these concerns. Residents highlighted the need for additional due diligence on various aspects of the project, including the hotel’s design and the anticipated traffic impact. Lastly, Sweetens Cove Golf Club, a 9-hole course in South Pittsburg, Tenn. known for its cult following and distinctive approach to golf, is set to expand. While the main course will remain at nine holes, the club is adding a par-3 short course along with a range of new amenities aimed at enhancing its appeal to traveling golfers. The expansion includes stay-and-play cabins, a restaurant, a distillery, a putting green, a fishing dock, and a skeet shooting range, designed to create a comprehensive destination experience. The original architects of Sweetens Cove, Rob Collins and Tad King, will return to design the new short course. Known for their work at Landmand in Nebraska, their new design will emphasize creativity and flexibility, allowing golfers to experience the course in multiple ways. Construction on the par-3 course is scheduled to begin in spring 2025, with an expected opening in 2026.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which hit Asheville, N.C. harder than expected, Aaron James, General Manager of the Country Club of Asheville, opened up about the challenges the club and its surrounding community have faced during recovery. In an interview with Rob Thomas on the Club Resort Talks podcast, James shared the harrowing experience and the ongoing efforts to rebuild. In other news from across the country, the Omni Tucson (Ariz.) National Resort now utilizes 225-acre feet of wastewater annually, fulfilling its obligations to Pima County. In today’s regulatory environment, new golf courses are typically expected to incorporate reclaimed water from the outset. However, the Omni, which opened in 1962, predates these requirements, as do many other courses in the region. The Club at Lost Lake, a semi-private club in Hobe Sound, Fla., partnered with our friends at Capstone Hospitality to make the move from public to private. The transition will aim to elevate the overall member experience through personalized services, exclusive events, and improved amenities. King’s North at Myrtle Beach (S.C.) National reopened Oct. 3 following a comprehensive project on its Front Nine. Architect Brandon Johnson reimagined the opening nine at King’s North, expanding the greens to their original size and specifications and in some cases beyond. Phase 2, which focuses on the back nine, will take place in the summer of 2025. Lastly, are you looking to get into the glamping business? The Sequoia High Sierra Camp, a 40-acre property set within the heart of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, includes a central dining lodge, a bathhouse, and 35 platform sites for furnished tent cabins. Approvals are in place to add up to 50 tent cabin sites.

Joe Smith, General Manager/COO of Countryside Golf and Country Club in Naples, Fla. joined the podcast to talk about everything happening at the club. Countryside celebrated the groundbreaking of its $14 million club renovation project, aptly named “Countryside 2.0,” in January. This project marks a significant milestone for the community, further enhancing the exceptional lifestyle residents and members have enjoyed for more than 35 years. Rob Thomas, Editor-in-Chief of Club + Resort Business, also touched upon some recent news from across the industry, including: Las Vegas, Nev.-based Siena Golf Holdings LLC purchased Siena Golf Club in Summerlin, Nev. for $17M. The club, which is part of a 2,100-home, 55-plus community, was originally constructed in 2000. Pivotal Group acquired the Hilton Phoenix (Ariz.) Resort at the Peak for $100M with plans to add new amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and an adult pool to complement the existing family pool and lazy river. A full renovation of the resort’s 432 rooms is also planned, likely to begin in the summer when tourism in Phoenix slows due to the heat. Lastly, it’s getting to be award season and a pair of courses have been named ‘Course of the Year!’ The Michigan Golf Course Association bestowed the honor upon Harbor Shores Resort in Benton Harbor, Mich. The award honors a member course that meets four criteria: Unique characteristics of the course; exceptional quality of ownership and management; outstanding contribution to its community; and significant contribution to the game. Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club in Pawley’s Island, S.C., succeeds Rivers Edge as the Myrtle Beach Area Golf Course Owners Association’s 2024 Course of the Year. Founders Group International contracted with Nicklaus Design Group and its Design Associate Troy Vincent to lead a 2023 renovation that modernized the facility.

Rob Thomas, Editor-in-Chief of Club + Resort Business and host of the Club + Resort Talks podcast, sat down with Gilles Gangon, Director of Sales at Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic. A close personal friend of Pete Dye, Gilles was the longtime Director of Golf Operations at the acclaimed resort before taking on his new role. He has some VERY entertaining stories to share … as well as news on the upcoming renovation of Teeth of the Dog. Also in the news … After a two-and-a-half-year intensive course renovation, San Juan Oaks Golf Club in Hollister, Calif., has reopened for daily-fee play. Developer Third Millennium Partners has overseen the project from start to finish, with insights from golf architect Gene Bates—designer of the original course in 1996, along with PGA TOUR golfer and World Golf Hall of Fame member Fred Couples—who returned to modernize the layout in January 2022. The comprehensive restoration involved regrassing the entire course, including tees and fairways with perennial ryegrass, 007XL bentgrass on the greens and new drought-resistant Bermuda grass on the practice range. Installation of a new pump station and irrigation system reduces overwatering and achieves better playing conditions. A sinkhole at Bunker Hill Golf Course in Dubuque, Iowa, first appearing in May 2023, has raised concerns among local residents and golfers. The sinkhole, located near the 17th hole, measures 11 feet deep and exposes a limestone shelf, indicating a collapse into an underlying mineshaft. The golf course is situated above an old limestone mine, a common feature in the area, and sinkholes are not uncommon in the region due to the topography and historical mining activity. The City of Dubuque’s Leisure Services Department, in collaboration with the engineering department, is actively working on a solution. Officials have confirmed that the depth of the sinkhole has remained stable, and the city is preparing to hire an outside company to repair it. The area has been fenced off and covered with plywood to ensure safety, and the city advises people to avoid the site. The Club at Olde Cypress in Naples, Fla. has enlisted Clive Daniel Hospitality for a renovation project. In partnership with Stock Development and Humphrey & Rosal Architects, Clive Daniel Hospitality is revitalizing the clubhouse to provide a refreshed, modernized experience for its members and guests. The renovation, which includes the expansion of both the bar and dining areas, will open the back of the dining space to panoramic views of the lake and golf course. The exterior will also see a transformation, with the addition of ample seating on the upper and lower terraces, and a newly constructed, covered exterior bar.

On this episode of the Club + Resort Talks podcast, Will Young, PGA Head Golf Professional at Hartford Golf Club in Wisconsin talks about the rise of his presence on TikTok and gives some advice to other club professionals considering the platform. Rob Thomas, Editor-in-Chief of Club + Resort Business, also takes a look at the latest news from across the industry. The new short game practice area at Indian Hills Country Club in Bowling Green, Ky. allows golfers to practice their putting on a dedicated green, with additional fairway space to hone their chipping and pitching skills. The short game area is dedicated to Bob McLean, a long-time superintendent at the club and one of the key figures behind its design. PTI Golf removed a total of 12 acres of turf at TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas, Nev. and replaced it with natural desert vegetation. The Southern Nevada Water Authority recently lowered the water budget in the Las Vegas Valley with a 33 percent reduction in allotted water. The most efficient way to meet that threshold is to remove turf. The Club at Eaglebrooke in Lakeland, Fla. will kick off a golf course renovation in April 2025. During the project, crews will rebuild all 18 greens to their original size/shape and resurface with Tifeagle Bermuda grass. The agronomy team at the facility will make select drainage, irrigation, tee box, and bunker improvements, as well. Concert Golf Partners has upgraded the wells, pumps, irrigation, clubhouse roof, windows, doors, kitchen equipment, and HVAC at The Club at Pasadera in Monterey, Calif. The upcoming second phase of upgrades will include $1 million of renovations planned for the hacienda-style clubhouse, including an expanded outdoor seating area, wine lockers, and more. A five-month, $2.5 million dollar restoration of the King & Bear Golf Course at World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Fla. involved resurfacing all 18 greens, as well as the putting and chipping areas, with TifEagle Bermuda grass. Improvements also included significant upgrades to the irrigation and drainage systems to promote water conservation, enhance turf health, and provide optimal playing conditions throughout the year.

On this episode of the Club + Resort Talks podcast, Editor-in-Chief Rob Thomas speaks with Mike Karnath, CCM, CCE, General Manager / COO of Wanakah Country Club in Hamburg, N.Y. Wanakah Country Club is celebrating its 125th Anniversary this year and recently had a Gala, Family BBQ, and donor appreciation party. Earlier in the year the club hosted a kickoff event, “A Taste Through Time,” held the New York State Men’s Amateur Championship, approved a $5.6 million irrigation and bunker project to ensure the club’s long-term viability, and invested in the club this year with a major pool renovation, and the addition of three new pickleball courts. Thomas also discussed some recent news taking place across the industry, including the reopened Estates Course at the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club, an overhaul of King’s North at Myrtle Beach National, and the sales of Plantation Palms Golf Club and Salem Glen Country Club. The Arizona Biltmore Golf Club in Phoenix, Ariz. reopened its Estates Course after close to 6,000 trees, hedges and bushes were added and numerous playability improvements were made in the last 60 days. Architect Brandon Johnson is overseeing a two-year, two-part project (the back nine will enjoy an overhaul in the summer of 2025) on King’s North at Myrtle Beach (S.C.) National. Owners target an early October reopening. Leisure Investment Properties Group facilitated the sales of Plantation Palms Golf Club in Land O’ Lakes, Fla., and Salem Glen Country Club in Clemmons, N.C. Both new ownership groups plan substantial renovations to enhance their offerings and community appeal.

On the latest episode of Club + Resort Talks, Senior Editor Phil Keren visited with Eric Peterson, General Manager of Cragun’s Resort, Golf & Conference and Cragun’s Legacy Golf Courses in Brainerd, Minn. Peterson talked about his facility recently hosting the CRMC Championship, a PGA Tour Americas event. The four-day tournament in late August and early September was won by Denmark native Frederik Kjettrup with a score of 24-under par. This was the third consecutive year that Cragun’s served as host of the CRMC Championship, which happened on the resort’s Dutch course. Peterson gave an overview of the work that he and his staff did to prepare the golf course and other areas of the property for the professional tournament. As of now, Cragun’s will host the CRMC Championship for at least the next three years. Phil and Editor-In-Chief Rob Thomas also talked about industry news stories happening in Nebraska, Washington D.C. and Illinois. GrayBull Club in Maxwell, Neb. has opened to its members and their guests. Course construction began in June 2022 with strategic play in mind. The course was completed in August and measures up to 7,181 yards. The club offers a unique selling point: tee times are spaced at least 15 minutes apart to ensure a relaxed pace of play and excellent turf conditions. The stay-and-play experience at GrayBull includes luxury on-site lodging with 60 beds on-site. There are 13 Executive Cottages and two Owners Cottages, all of which include four master suites and common spaces for entertainment. A limited number of cottages opened in August, and the remaining cottage construction will be finished in early 2025. Rock Creek Park Golf Course in Washington, D.C. is undergoing a major rehabilitation project that is being led by the National Park Service (NPS) and the nonprofit National Links Trust (NLT). The work aims to enhance the course while also improving the park’s natural resources. While the project intends to remove more than 1,000 trees, including both invasive and unhealthy species, the NPS and NLT emphasize that the plan will replant more trees than are removed, focusing on native species to ensure the health of the park’s ecosystem. Efforts are also being made to reduce the golf course’s carbon footprint. The project awaits approval from the National Capital Planning Commission, which will hold a public hearing to address concerns and consider the plan’s future. Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa in Galena, Ill., recently launched its Integrative Group Wellness Programming to transform corporate meetings, retreats, and team-building activities into rejuvenating wellness experiences. At the heart of these new offerings is the award-winning Stonedrift Spa, a 12,000 sq. ft. wellness destination that anchors the resort’s extensive group wellness activities. The activities offered at the resort include: guided walking, hiking, and nature tours; group yoga, fitness, and stretch sessions; and mindfulness and meditation workshops.

On this episode of Club + Resort Talks, Senior Editor Phil Keren interviews Rich Wade, Director of Squash and Padel at The Philadelphia Cricket Club, about the club’s padel offerings. Wade gives a primer on padel, discusses why the club decided to offer the sport, and reviews the padel programs and leagues that are available. Phil and Editor-In-Chief Rob Thomas also reviewed news stories happening with clubs in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Georgia, North Carolina, and New York. The market for golf courses is experiencing a significant upswing, as seen in the recent listings and sales of properties that are in different stages of development and ownership. Rob and Phil examined two examples that highlight this trend: the Hershey’s Mill Golf Club in Chester County, Pa., listed for $9.9 million, and the Candlewood Valley Country Club in New Milford, Conn., sold for $2.5 million. Phil and Rob also highlighted the improvements to the fairways, greens and bunkers at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Ga. in a restoration that was led by designer Andrew Green. The reopening of the course coincided with the club hosting the TOUR Championship. Rob and Phil also looked at two new amenities being offered at Lake Toxaway Country Club, a private club in western North Carolina — a stand-alone Golf Academy (in addition to their Tom Fazio Learning Center) and The Nest, which includes a climbing wall. The all-new Golf Academy, located at the Tom Fazio Learning Center, opened in May and is a full-service, comprehensive player development program with swing analysis, custom golf club fitting services, training programs, and golf instruction with the club’s PGA professionals. Phil and Rob spotlighted Glens Falls Country Club’s plans to add two outdoor paddleball courts to their existing three. The club in Queensbury, N.Y. earlier this year added six pickleball courts and is renovating the tee boxes, fairways, and greens on the golf course.

On this episode of the Club + Resort Talks podcast, Editor-in-Chief Rob Thomas speaks with Monique “Mo” Gesualdi, PGA and LPGA Director of Instruction at St. John’s Golf & Country Club in St. Augustine, Fla. Coach Mo was recently awarded the 2024 Troon Coach of the Year. She talks about her journey to becoming a golf coach and the health challenges she had to overcome in her 20s. Coach Mo emphasizes the importance of a holistic coaching approach that considers the physical, mental, emotional and nutritional aspects of a player. As a former high-level junior golfer herself, she believes she can relate to her students and guide them through the challenges they face. She also talks about her podcast, The Coach Mo Podcast, which features interviews with people from the golf industry. Coach Mo concludes the interview by expressing her excitement about the future of golf, with more girls and women getting involved in the sport. Rob and Senior Editor Phil Keren also discussed Phil’s just-concluded trip to Cragun’s Resort and Cragun’s Legacy Courses in Brainerd, Minn. The 84-year-old destination offers two golf courses — the Lehman 18 and the Dutch 27 — and a Par 3 course, as well as opportunities to enjoy fishing, kayaking, boating and other water sports, as well as land pursuits such as tennis, pickleball, beach volleyball, biking and hiking. Phil and a group of golf writers visited Cragun’s and accompanied groups that played both courses. Each course was designed by the Lehman Design Group, headed by former World No.1 PGA Tour player Tom Lehman, a Minnesota native. The Dutch 27 has a pair of 9-hole layouts (Blue and White) that can be played today, and a third 9 (Red) that is expected to open for play in May 2025. The resort has a staff of more than 300 employees, offers 300 rooms, suites, cabins and homes to rent, and 62,000 sq. ft. of multi-function conference and exhibit space. On an annual basis, Cragun’s records 100,000 guest nights, which equates to 40,000 unique guests. The resort hosts about 200 corporate or association groups and anywhere from 25 to 40 weddings each year. Phil will have a story about Cragun’s for the September issue of Club + Resort Business. Phil and Rob also discussed projects happening at resorts in Arizona and California. The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch is nearing the completion of its $115 million renovation and will soon be rebranded as the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort. This project, expected to conclude in the coming weeks, will mark the debut of the first Grand Hyatt hotel in Arizona. The resort will feature six new restaurants, all developed in partnership with celebrity chef Richard Blais. These will include a modern Italian chophouse, a Southwestern grill, and two different poolside concepts. In addition to the new dining options, the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort will unveil its fully renovated meeting space in October. This includes the 14,000-sq.-ft. Vaquero Ballroom and 52,000 sq. ft. of existing indoor and outdoor function space. By January 2025, the resort will open its expanded Arizona Ballroom, nearly tripling its size to 25,000 sq. ft., aiming to become a premier venue for meetings and events in the region. Silverado Resort in Napa, Calif. will once again host the PGA Tour’s Napa tournament, now renamed the Procore Championship Sept. 12-15. During the last couple of years, a lot of infrastructure improvement has happened at the site, including the introduction of 130 new golf carts, a $1.5 million investment in turf maintenance equipment, the conversion of 9.8 miles of asphalt cart paths into concrete paths, and the expansion of the driving range by 9,000 sq. ft.

On this episode of the Club + Resort Talks podcast, Senior Editor Phil Keren speaks with Andy Hughett, General Manager of Whitmoor Country Club in Weldon Spring, Mo., and Chrisitan Dunn, Director of Corporate Development at Concert Golf Partners, about Whitmoor leaders’ efforts to offer a family-friendly venue. Concert Golf Partners acquired Whitmoor CC from the Whitaker family in late 2022. Hughett shared an overview of the club’s amenities, talked about the steps the club has taken to provide a family-friendly environment, and discussed the feedback he’s received from members. He also cast a spotlight on how Concert Golf Partners has supported the club’s efforts. Dunn talked about how his company helps clubs like Whitmoor meet its goals. Phil and Editor-In-Chief Rob Thomas also discussed the unfortunate news of a couple golf courses closing, but also highlighted major projects happening in both Texas and Pennsylvania. Blue Fox Run, a 27-hole course in Avon, Conn., and Primm Valley Golf Course, just outside of Las Vegas, have both closed and are for sale. Blue Fox Run’s future is precarious, with the auction listing highlighting potential alternative uses such as agriculture, sparking fears that the land could be repurposed. Primm Valley, opened in 1998 and designed by renowned golf architect Tom Fazio, was once a popular destination for golfers. Its closure and sale reflect larger economic and developmental pressures in that geographic area. Jeffersonville Golf Club, owned by West Norriton Township, Pa. (a Philadelphia suburb), is undergoing significant changes. The club invested $11 million-plus in new facilities, including an 18,000-sq.-ft. clubhouse, which has a pro shop, banquet hall, bar, golf simulators, and a restaurant named The Burgess Restaurant and Bar. Several significant reinvestment initiatives are beginning at TPC-Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas, where a redesign effort will be led by golf legend Lanny Wadkins. The course’s fairways, tees and rough will now feature TifTuf, which is a sturdier grass that stays green deep into the winter months and re-greens earlier than other varieties. The greens will be converted to ultradwarf Bermuda, which will deliver consistent speeds throughout the year and reduce varying fluctuations in play. The existing 20-year-old irrigation system will be replaced with 2,000 new sprinkler heads and a more efficient pump station that will maximize the amount of water distributed in a shorter period of time.

On this episode of the Club + Resort Talks podcast, Rob Thomas speaks with Robin Shelton, PGA Master Professional and General Manager of Newport Beach Country Club, and Bianca Gillett, the club’s Director of Fitness and Recreation. The trio discuss the celebrated club’s newest edition—an outdoor fitness center called “The Cove.” Gillett shares the space’s unique features and amenities, how it integrates with the existing facilities at Newport Beach Country Club, and what types of fitness programs and classes will be offered. Shelton touches upon construction costs, the expected return on investment, and how “The Cove” will contribute to the club’s member retention rates. Rob and Senior Editor Phil Keren opened the podcast by talking about Phil’s recent visit to Glenmoor Country Club in Canton, Ohio to cover the Northern Ohio PGA HOPE Cup. PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is a program that provides free golf lessons to veterans and active duty military service members. In the Glenmoor event, 15 teams, each consisting of four veterans and a PGA Professional, competed in a 9-hole scramble. The winning team was led by PGA Professional Kevin Sullivan and consisted of veterans Tom Brown, Rob Sutton, Jason Wallingford, and Jim Morrison. Special guests at the event were former Ohio State University Head Football Coach Jim Tressel and PGA Professional and TV host Jimmy Hanlin. Phil and Rob also discussed an enhancement project happening at Brown Deer Park Golf Course in Milwaukee, Wis. Money from the American Rescue Plan Act is being used to fund the construction of a new practice facility that will include a 23,500-sq.-ft. putting green, a 1,500-sq.-ft. practice bunker, and 5,300 sq. ft. of asphalt cart paths. The facility will be located just west of the current driving range near the clubhouse. The project will replace a small practice bunker and a concrete pad from previous years with the new putting green and practice bunker. The existing putting green between the clubhouse and the driving range will remain. Rob and Phil also highlighted an interesting discovery made by golf course workers at Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Va. The resort features two classic courses, one being the Old Course, established in 1892 and lined with mature oaks and maples. Throughout the year, workers clear dead and fallen trees, which they chop into firewood for the resort. This routine task took an unexpected turn when a thick piece of oak was split open, revealing two golf balls embedded in the wood. While both balls were encrusted with dirt and sap, one exhibited distinctive characteristics of an antique golf ball, including a square dimple pattern that was popular around a century ago. Further examination by an expert will be needed to learn more. Victoria Nenno, Senior Historian at the USGA Golf Museum and Library, suggested the diamond or mesh (square) pattern most likely dates between 1910 and 1930, indicating it is probably a rubber-core ball.

On this episode of the Club + Resort Talks podcast, Club + Resort Business Editor-in-Chief Rob Thomas speaks with Erik Whitehead, Membership Director at Myakka Golf Club in Myakka City, Fla. Miakka Golf Club, a private club currently being built by Dana Fry and Jason Straka with consultation from PGA veteran Paul Azinger, is located near Sarasota, construction is well under way and preview play is expected to begin the fall of 2025. The course is being built on more than 1,100 acres of land and will feature an Australian Sandbelt design (Royal Melbourne, Kingston Heath, etc). They also have created a 600 acre sod farm to grow their own zoysia grasses. Rob and Senior Editor Phil Keren also discussed projects happening in Florida, Arizona and California. Boca West Country Club in Boca Raton, Fla. this past week officially unveiled its 110,000-sq.-ft., fully renovated, two-story Lifestyle Center. The facility includes a 96,000 sq.-ft. Aquatic Complex, 20,000 sq. ft. of fitness studios, with state-of-the-art technology for spin, aerobics, Pilates and core training. The expansion includes a fully renovated spa, cabana shop, poker room, card room, game lounge, locker rooms/lounge, and business center. Rob and Phil shared thoughts about the renovation of the Mountainview Golf Course that was completed at SaddleBrooke Two, a master-planned community located north of Tucson, Ariz. The project focused on replacing the old irrigation system, improved drainage, bunkers complexes, turf reduction and improvements as well as adding new tees to the 27-year-old course. Phil and Rob also reviewed the ongoing reconstruction of the original 18 holes of the 27-hole golf course at the private North Ranch Country Club in Westlake Village, Calif. Every feature and component of the Valley and Oaks courses has been reimagined by Jackson Kahn Design. Enhancements include: tee-to-green layout changes with fair challenges for all levels of play; new greens ranging from 3,400 to 11,000-plus sq. ft.; and Sand-soil mixtures optimizing moisture characteristics and drainage. Rob and Phil highlighted a groundbreaking ceremony for a new golf clubhouse being constructed as part of a new, master-planned resort-style new home community located on Lake Anna in Louisa County, Va. The fully-built development is expected to contribute significantly to Louisa County’s economy, with an estimated annual impact of $6.5 million. This figure includes $5 million from property taxes and more than $1.5 million from transient occupancy taxes. Additionally, the project will generate more than 200 full-time jobs and 150 construction and skilled trade positions during the development phase.

The new clubhouse at Oakland Hills Country Club in Bloomfield Hills, Mich. is taking shape, marked by a recent “topping off” ceremony celebrating the completion of the steel structure for the 110,000-sq.-ft. building. This milestone is part of a $104 million project, nearly two-and-a-half years after the original clubhouse was destroyed by a fire caused by a contractor mishap with a blowtorch. During the “topping out” ceremony, members and staff signed the final steel beam before placing it, following the tradition of placing an evergreen tree on top. The new clubhouse is scheduled for completion by spring 2026. The timing of the ceremony coincided with the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship and a visit from Tiger Woods, who supported his son Charlie in the tournament. The Ridgewood Golf Course in Parma, Ohio is poised for a significant upgrade with the construction of a new clubhouse and event center, set to begin in August. Representatives from Albert M. Higley Co., the construction manager-at-risk, announced at a Planning Commission meeting that they anticipate breaking ground on the $12.3 million project in the first or second week of the month. The new 11,400-sq.-ft. structure will offer both indoor and outdoor seating, an expanded bar and lounge area, and more than 160 parking spaces. The World Handicap System, governed by the USGA and the R&A, recently lowered the minimum length requirement. Now, courses measuring at least 1,500 yards for 18 holes or 750 yards for nine holes are eligible for rating. This adjustment allows golfers to post their scores in the World Handicap System. Previously, around 600 par-3 and short courses did not qualify for score submission to the World Handicap. Short courses represent a growing market, and the aim is to be more inclusive and attract as many scores and players as possible. Chris Byrd, Director of Golf at Cape Fear Country Club, mentioned that the par-3 course offers beginners and juniors a comfortable space to learn before progressing to larger courses. The new handicap rules enable them to post scores and track their improvement. And more!