Makai Golf Club on Kauai to reopen under Troon Golf management
Makai Golf Club at the St. Regis Princeville Resort on Kauai's North Shore will be managed by Troon Golf, the Scottsdale, Ariz.-based company has announced.
Troon Golf is considered a leader in upscale golf-course management, development and marketing.
The Makai Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. in 1971, is undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation, set for completion in early 2010. The improvements to the golf course coincide with the renovation of the resort, formerly known as the Princeville Hotel. It reopened in October 2009.
"We are excited to partner with the St. Regis Princevile Resort to expand our portfolio into one of the world's most desirable destinations," said Hud Hinton, president and chief operating office of Troon Golf. "We are also confident that the improvements being made at the property will create a more memorable experience for visitors, especially when combined with Troon Golf's unparalleled service and playing conditions."
Long considered one of the premier golf courses in Hawaii, Makai G.C. appears on several top-100 lists and Golf Digest ranks it among the state's best courses.
Makai's layout winds through serene lakes and native woodlands and features spectacular coastline views.
The renovation includes the reconfiguration of green complexes, reshaping of the bunkers, refurbishment of selected cart paths and comfort stations. The project also upgrades the practice facility to include two large practice tees, a fairway bunker, eight target greens with bunkers, a teaching tee and a short-game complex.
A new clubhouse is planned as part of the next phase of renovation.
Alex Nakajima has been appointed as the new general manager of the Makai Golf Club. Nakajima joined Troon Golf in 2000 to open the company’s Japan office in Tokyo. He worked with an investment institution as director of golf asset management, overseeing 150 golf courses. Nakajima also developed Accordia Golf, the largest golf-course management company in Japan.
The St. Regis Princeville Resort offers 252 guest rooms, a signature restaurant with world-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and the famed St. Regis butler service for premier suites. The hotel's exclusive Halele'a Spa overlooks picturesque Hanalei Bay.
Troon Golf is the world's largest golf-course management company. It directs operations at properties in 31 states and 26 countries. Additionally, 39 Troon Golf facilities enjoy a top-100 ranking, as listed by national and international publications. Troon Golf properties include Oneida Golf and Country Club in Green Bay, Wis.; Troon North Golf Club in Scottsdale; the Golf Club at Equinox in Manchester Village, Vt.; Classic Club in Palm Desert, Calif.; One and Only Ocean Club in the Bahamas and the Grover in London.
September 30, 2009