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Who Owns PGA West? The Complete Ownership History
If you’ve ever wondered about the powerhouse behind one of golf’s most iconic destinations, you’re not alone. The question of who owns PGA West is a common one, fueled by a complex history involving major global investment firms and a legacy intertwined with the very fabric of American golf. The ownership story is as dynamic as the legendary courses themselves.
As of January 31, 2020, PGA West is owned by a joint venture between Hankuk Industry, a South Korean firm with a deep portfolio in golf, and Century Golf Partners, an experienced U.S.-based operator. The properties are managed by Century Golf’s prestigious Arnold Palmer Golf Management brand.
Leveraging extensive analysis of ownership records and industry reports, this guide unpacks the complete story. We’ll detail every major ownership change, introduce you to the current leadership, and reveal their ambitious vision for “The Western Home of Golf in America.”
Key Facts
- Current Ownership Structure: A joint venture between Hankuk Industry and Century Golf Partners officially acquired PGA West on January 31, 2020.
- High-Profile Predecessors: Before the current owners, PGA West was held by major global players, including the Blackstone Group, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund (GIC), and an investment group backed by KKR.
- Massive Restoration Project: The new ownership has invested millions in a multi-year restoration of all nine courses, a project highlighted by publications like Golfweek and Golf Course Trades.
- PGA Tour Relationship: PGA West is not owned by the PGA Tour. It is an exclusive partner, which grants it the right to use the prestigious name and host world-renowned tour events.
- Experienced Management: The resort is operated by Arnold Palmer Golf Management, a brand under Century Golf Partners, which has experience managing over 500 golf properties worldwide.
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Who Really Owns PGA West? A 2025 Deep Dive
As of January 31, 2020, PGA West is owned by a joint venture between Hankuk Industry and Century Golf Partners. The properties are managed by Century Golf’s Arnold Palmer Golf Management brand. This acquisition marked a significant new chapter for the famed La Quinta resort community. The partnership combines international investment prowess with deep operational expertise in the American golf landscape.
The key players in the current structure are:
- Hankuk Industry: A South Korean firm with extensive golf course ownership in Japan and the United States.
- Century Golf Partners: An American company serving as the managing partner, with a vast history of operating high-end clubs and resorts.
- Arnold Palmer Golf Management: The prestigious management brand under which Century Golf operates the PGA West portfolio.
But this is only the latest chapter in a long and fascinating story. How did we get here?
The Complete Ownership History: From Landmark Land to Today
PGA West has a rich ownership history, transitioning from its original developer, Landmark Land Co., through major investment firms like KKR, Singapore’s GIC, and the Blackstone Group before its 2025 acquisition. This timeline showcases the resort’s immense value and strategic importance in the global hospitality and golf markets. Each owner has left their mark on the property known as “The Western Home of Golf in America.”
Quick Fact: The 2013 deal with Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund ensured PGA West would remain a PGA-branded resort all the way through 2061.
Here is a clear breakdown of the ownership journey:
| Ownership Period | Owner/Entity | Key Details (from inputs) |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-1993 | Landmark Land Co. | The original developers of PGA West. The company’s savings and loan division, Oak Tree Savings, was seized by federal regulators in 1991. |
| 1993 – 2013 | KSL Recreation Group (KKR) | An investment group backed by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR) acquired PGA West and the La Quinta resort for $276 million at a government auction. |
| 2013 – 2018 | GIC Private Limited | The real estate arm of Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund acquired PGA West as part of a massive $1.5 billion portfolio deal with other luxury resorts. |
| 2018 – 2020 | The Blackstone Group | The New York-based private equity giant purchased the property from GIC. During this period, Hilton continued to manage the resort under its Waldorf Astoria brand. |
| 2020 – Present | Joint Venture: Hankuk Industry & Century Golf Partners | Finalized on January 31, 2020, this partnership brought the resort under its current leadership, focused on golf operations and restoration. |
Meet the Current Owners: Hankuk Industry and Century Golf Partners
The current ownership combines the international portfolio of South Korea’s Hankuk Industry with the operational expertise of Century Golf Partners, who manage the resort. This strategic partnership brings a unique blend of financial backing, global perspective, and hands-on management skill to the legendary property.
With decades of combined international experience, what is this new leadership’s vision for the iconic resort? It’s a vision rooted in restoring the courses to their former glory and re-establishing PGA West as the pinnacle of American golf destinations.
Who is Hankuk Industry?
Hankuk Industry is a South Korean firm led by Chairman Shin Il Yoo with extensive golf course ownership in Japan and the U.S. since 1990. The company is far from a newcomer to the world of premier golf. Their involvement dates back three decades, showcasing a long-term commitment to the sport and the business of golf.
The firm’s passion is personified by its chairman, Shin Il Yoo.
Shin Il Yoo’s personal passion for the game is evident in his stated goal to play 1,000 different golf courses around the world. This deep appreciation for golf culture informs the company’s investment philosophy.
Hankuk Industry’s impressive portfolio includes:
* 9 premier golf clubs located in Japan.
* 16 golf courses on the US west coast, including several in Southern California.
Pro Tip: Hankuk Industry’s U.S. operations are managed through HKI America, Inc., showcasing a strong commitment to the region.
What is the Role of Century Golf Partners?
Century Golf Partners is the experienced managing partner of the joint venture, operating PGA West under its prestigious Arnold Palmer Golf Management brand. They are the operational heart of the new ownership structure, bringing an incredible track record of success in the club and resort industry.
Their role and experience are clear and substantial:
* They serve as the Managing Partner of the joint venture, responsible for day-to-day operations and strategic direction.
* They operate the entire PGA West portfolio under the globally recognized Arnold Palmer Golf Management brand.
* The team has direct experience with over 500 golf courses, resorts, and private country clubs, making them one of the most seasoned operators in the industry.
The New Vision: Restoring “The Western Home of Golf in America”
The new ownership has invested millions in a multi-year restoration of all nine courses, aiming to return them to their original designs and provide daily tournament-level conditions. This ambitious undertaking, launched in the summer of 2020, signals a clear commitment to elevating the player experience above all else. As reported by sources like Golfweek and Golf Course Trades, this isn’t just a minor refresh; it’s a complete revitalization.
How do you restore courses designed by legends like Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus? By focusing on their original vision. The project goes beyond simple maintenance to focus on enhancing playability, sustainability, and the unique character of each of the 162 holes across the property.
The primary goals of this new vision are:
1. Provide tournament conditions daily. The ownership aims to deliver a PGA Tour-level experience to members and guests every single day, not just during special events.
2. Attract more major tournaments. By restoring the courses to their peak-performance state, PGA West aims to once again become a premier host for the world’s most significant golf competitions.
3. Re-establish PGA West as a top-tier destination. The ultimate goal is to cement the resort’s reputation as the undisputed “Western Home of Golf in America,” attracting golfers from around the globe.
To achieve the tournament-level conditions you’ll find at PGA West, having the right equipment is essential. Equipping yourself with professional-grade gear can help you adapt to the pristine and challenging course designs.
FAQs About who owns pga west
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the ownership and operation of PGA West.
Is PGA WEST owned by the PGA Tour?
No, PGA West is not owned by the PGA Tour. This is a common point of confusion. PGA West is independently owned by the Hankuk Industry and Century Golf Partners joint venture. It is, however, an exclusive partner of the PGA Tour, which is why it has the honor of hosting renowned PGA Tour events and using the prestigious “PGA” name.
Who is the CEO or Executive Director of PGA WEST?
Ben Dobbs is the Executive Director of PGA WEST® and The Citrus Club. He is responsible for overseeing the operations of the expansive club and its facilities, working under the management of Century Golf Partners to execute the ownership’s vision for the property.
How much is a membership at PGA WEST?
While membership costs and dues can change, understanding the investment is key for prospective members. Based on available data, the costs have been reported as follows:
- Non-refundable Fee: $55,000
- Monthly Dues: Approximately $1,712 ($1,611.00 + $101.00)
It is always best to contact the PGA West membership office directly for the most current and detailed information on fees, dues, and membership categories.
Who founded PGA West originally?
PGA West was originally developed by Landmark Land Co. The company, led by visionaries like Ernie Vossler, purchased the historic La Quinta Resort in 1977 with the grand plan of developing the surrounding land into a world-class golf community. This laid the foundation for what would become “The Western Home of Golf in America.”
Final Summary: The New Era for PGA West
The story of who owns PGA West has entered an exciting new era defined by a passion for golf and a commitment to excellence. The joint venture of Hankuk Industry and Century Golf Partners has brought stability, a clear vision, and significant investment to the iconic property. By focusing on a massive restoration project and leveraging deep operational expertise, the new ownership is dedicated to elevating the entire PGA West experience.
Here are the most critical takeaways:
- The Current Owners: A strategic partnership between Hankuk Industry (international investment) and Century Golf Partners (U.S. operational expertise).
- The Vision: To restore all nine courses to their original glory and provide daily tournament-level conditions for all players.
- The Management: The resort is operated by the highly respected Arnold Palmer Golf Management brand.
- The PGA Tour Distinction: PGA West is a proud partner of the PGA Tour, not owned by it, allowing it to host premier events.
With a clear vision and significant investment, the future of “The Western Home of Golf in America” is brighter than ever. Explore their restored courses or membership options to experience it firsthand.
Last update on 2025-09-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
