TROON GOLF ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC ALLIANCE WITH TDIC
Scottsdale, Ariz. – Troon Golf,® the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing is pleased to announce it has formed an alliance with the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), Abu Dhabi’s leading tourism developer. The technical and operational alliance has been formulated to drive a future “best-in-class” golf destinations network, which will encompass the entire emirate.
The agreement comes at an opportune time as TDIC is preparing to launch a compelling golf development program that will add further credibility to Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a major sports destination. The alliance is aimed at ensuring the portfolio of TDIC courses, which are currently being planned and constructed, are developed and operated to the very highest industry standards.
“We are very excited to build upon our partnership with TDIC and the emirate of Abu Dhabi,” said Bruce Glasco, senior vice president, managing director, Europe Middle East & Africa division, Troon Golf. “Our high standards and exceptional service combined with TDIC’s unmatched vision in master planning will draw international acclaim to the region’s leisure and sport activities.”
TDIC currently owns the Troon Golf managed Abu Dhabi Golf Club, home to the annual European Tour-backed Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, and is developing the Abu Dhabi Golf Course Hotel, Residences & Spa destination alongside the club. The company is also behind the only signature Gary Player design golf course in the United Arab Emirates and the Arabian Gulf’s only “ocean” course, which is due to open in the third quarter of 2009. The company is planning eco-courses for the Wetlands District of Saadiyat Island, located off the shoreline of Abu Dhabi city. The island is being transformed into an international leisure, residential and cultural destination.
“Troon Golf has the expertise to assist in the delivery of our golfing facilities,” stated Lee Tabler, CEO, TDIC. “Its world-wide club management pedigree brings both international operational expertise and huge cross-marketing opportunities to the alliance.”
Headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Troon Golf is the world’s largest golf management company, overseeing operations at more than 200 courses located in 31 states and 31 countries. Additionally, 36 Troon Golf facilities enjoy a Top 100 ranking by national or international publications. Troon Golf properties include Oneida Golf and Country Club, Green Bay, Wis.; Talking Stick Golf Club, Scottsdale, Ariz.; The Clubs at St. James Plantation, Southport, N.C.; Classic Club, Palm Desert, Calif.; Playa Mujeres Golf Club, Cancun, Mexico; and The Grove, London, England.