Golf Business Community

Bruce Glasco
Managing Director
Troon Golf Europe, Middle East & Africa 

"It is impossible to select one single golf development as the best in the world, as there are several that stand out and, more importantly, have stood the test of time. However, I personally like St James Plantation in North Carolina and The Ocean Club in The Bahamas. In terms of destinations, the United Arab Emirates continues to raise the bar with mature offerings such as Abu Dhabi Golf Club and the inspiring Els Club at Dubai Sports City.
 
"In my opinion, a successful development must cater to players of all levels and exceed the aspirations of those living in the community or staying at the resort. In today's environment, the best developments will have a strong value proposition and consistently meet the needs and expectations of their customers."


Gary Firkins
Director
Landmark Media International Ltd

“In my opinion, Gleneagles in Scotland remains one of the finest golf developments in the world. Born out of the golden age of steam trains, grand hotels and wild, natural golf courses, Gleneagles still offers a potent mix of sophistication, elegance and fine living that is rare and special.

“While not all new developments will be blessed with such outstanding settings, successful golf courses, clubs and communities will be those that go out of their way to offer a superior, personal service, a distinctive ambience, and a long term view on the importance of their customers, business and place in the world.”


Bryan D. Webb
Principal
Marsh and Associates, Inc


“If I had to name one golf development that stands out as being at the top of the game, it would be Pebble Beach. Pebble Beach claims several of the world’s premier courses, hosts top tournaments, has a world-class resort, and boasts residential communities and amenities that define a successful development.” 


Richard Wood
Director
Colt Mackenzie McNair


“In my humble opinion, Sun City in South Africa is the best golf development in the world. The reason for it being so successful is that it is a unique combination of world-class sporting and recreational facilities built on a manmade site where they have created the optimum layout – the Gary Player Country Club, The Palace of the Lost City, part of The Leading Hotels of the World, spa, game reserve, 5-star conference facilities, a waterpark, casino and more. It is also fun with a capital ‘F’.”


Neil Oldfield
Director
Southern Golf


“Probably for me, from personal experience, the most impressive development to date is Aphrodite Hills in Cyprus. The transformation from a completely virgin site into a fully operational integrated resort, as it is today, and witnessing someone’s vision turn to reality in this way has been a valuable experience.”