Troon Golf®, the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing is pleased to recognize the following individuals and facilities for outstanding performance in 2008.
Winners were announced during a webcast hosted by Troon Golf’s chairman and CEO Dana Garmany, and president and COO Hud Hinton. Congratulations to the following finalists and award winners:
“Facility of the Year”
Fieldstone Golf Club, Delaware, USA
After delivering excellent financial results in 2008, this facility has demonstrated that the current economy is a challenge that can be overcome. The club increased member dues by 17 percent, total revenues by nine percent and increased GOP 118 percent to prior year. Member satisfaction also increased from 79 percent to 91 percent after Troon took over management. Comments from the club’s owner include praise of the management team’s leadership and ability to succeed during a difficult economic time. Finalists for the award included Abu Dhabi Golf Club in the United Arab Emirates and Wausau Country Club in Wisconsin, USA.
“General Manager of the Year”
DJ Flanders, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, United Arab Emirates
DJ has been with Troon Golf for ten years and has literally built the brand in markets where it did not exist. His success at Abu Dhabi Golf Club recently earned him a promotion to oversee an alliance Troon Golf developed with the resort’s ownership. During his time at Abu Dhabi Golf Club, DJ earned consistent recognition as an effective leader from his constituents while posting impressive financial statistics as well. He also hosted a Tour event where he made Troon Golf extremely visible and heightened the recognition of Abu Dhabi Golf Club within the region. Finalists for the “General Manager of the Year” award included Michael Rodriguez from Wausau Country Club in Wisconsin, USA and Mike Sander from Fieldstone Golf Club in Delaware, USA.
“Superintendent of the Year”
David Soltvedt, The Ridge at Castle Pines North, Colorado, USA
David has been with Troon Golf for eight years and is described as being energetic and extremely hard working. Guest satisfaction with course conditions improved dramatically over prior year and employee satisfaction was at 92 percent – one of the highest marks in the company. David gets the most out of every dollar he has from the maintenance budget and has garnered the respect of ownership and his management team. Finalists for the award included Brad Anderson from Troon North Golf Club in Arizona, USA and Arnie Galvez from Poston Butte Golf Club in Arizona, USA.
“Most Improved Facility of the Year”
El Macero Country Club, California, USA
El Macero had a remarkable year in 2008 with membership sales matching record numbers. Total revenues were significantly increased, particularly in golf and food & beverage. Course conditions have improved immensely and 91 percent of members are satisfied with the overall member experience. Board members have agreed that most of the accomplishments can be directly attributed to Troon Golf’s management team. Finalists for the “Most Improved Facility of the Year” included Pearl Valley Golf Estates in South Africa and Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club in Australia.
“Associate of the Year”
Salvador Escobar, Equipment Operator, Classic Club, California, USA
Since his first day, Salvador has continued to prove that he is a great asset to Troon Golf. He has become a key associate and the “go to” person at Classic Club because of his willingness to contribute in all areas at the facility. Salvador’s attention to detail produces a quality of work that delivers the Troon Golf ExperienceSM and upholds the qualities the brand represents. John Bradshaw, a golf guest service supervisor at The Peninsula Golf & Country Club in Delaware, USA and Julie McKernan, a banquet captain from Rochester Golf & Country Club in Minnesota, USA were also finalists for the award.
“Facility Newcomer of the Year”
The Els Club, United Arab Emirates
The Els Club was No. 1 in guest survey collections and posted impressive total revenue and net operating profit numbers in 2008. It is extremely well recognized in the region as a “Troon” branded facility, being named the “Best New International Course” by Links magazine and was a finalist for the Golf Inc. “Development of the Year” award. Finalists for the “Facility Newcomer” award included Bahia Beach Resort & Golf Club in Puerto Rico and Forest Dunes Golf Club in Michigan, USA.
“W.I.T.S.” (Walk In Their Shoes) Award
David Smallwood, Superintendent, St. Lucia Golf & Country Club, St. Lucia
David has been with Troon Golf for six years. The past year proved to be both eventful and challenging for David. He experienced a very violent hurricane, had a misinformed SWAT team storm through his yard and also had to miss the birth of his first child. Troon Golf recognizes the sacrifices David has made and is grateful for his hard work and dedication.
“Turnaround Facility of the Year”
Abu Dhabi Golf Club, United Arab Emirates
Abu Dhabi had an incredible year, marked by impressive financial turnarounds. The facility ranked No. 1 in the company for percentage increases in golf and food & beverage revenues and No. 2 in an increase in total revenues.
“Ambassador” Award
The Team at Lake of Isles, Connecticut, USA
This year’s award went to the team at Lake of Isles, whose pride and passion are second to none. They consistently provide an unparalleled experience and set the benchmark for a superior quality of service. The staff worked as a team to host what has been called the “best Troon Cup event to date.”
“Award of Excellence”
Matt Hurley, General Manager and Area Manager, Legacy Golf Club, Florida, USA
Presented only to those who truly go beyond the call of duty, Matt earned this coveted award after spending three months away from his family to work on some extremely demanding and very high profile projects for the company. These projects have experienced early success because of his leadership and involvement. Matt has been with Troon Golf for twelve years and is always promoting the company with enthusiasm.
“Troon Golf employs many of the brightest and most talented professionals in the golf industry,” stated Hud Hinton. “It is our privilege to honor the ‘best of the best’ for consistently going above and beyond to deliver the Troon Experience.”
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, Troon Golf EMA is committed to developing Troon Golf’s presence in Europe, Middle East and Africa. This rapidly expanding division now oversees operations at 39 courses in 14 countries including Dubai, Portugal, Spain and England with further expansion planned across all regions.
Troon Golf www.troongolf.com