Source: Houston Chronicle
Arnold Palmer Golf Management and American Golf Corporation appear close to finishing a deal that would transfer operation of several local AGC courses into Palmer's growing stable.
According to the head pro at one AGC track here, facilities named on the contract include Bear Creek Golf World, Southwyck Golf Club, Longwood Golf Club, Pecan Grove Country Club, Sweetwater Country Club, and Walden on Lake Houston.
At least one AGC-managed club, Sugar Creek Country Club, would not make the switch; Sugar Creek has a long-term management agreement with AGC but is owned by its members.
Mike Shoelin, general manager of Tour 18 Golf Club in Houston, already under Palmer Golf Management's umbrella, would not comment on a deal that is said also to include premier courses in San Antonio and Dallas.
Founded in 1984, PGM currently manages or provides instructional facilities to more than 30 golf courses in the United States and Europe. From PGM headquarters in Addison, chief executive officer Jim Hinckley declined comment.
Summit comes to town
The Texas Golf Association hosts the second annual Texas Golf Summit Jan. 22 at the Doubletree Post Oak Hotel.
The event features educational seminars and open discussion with golf association leaders from all quadrants of the state.
"The Texas Golf Summit is part of the TGA's effort to allow anyone interested in golf to be involved at some level," said Jeff Morton, South Texas regional manager for TGA.
Scheduled seminars, each running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., include the rules of golf, course rating, and handicapping.
Also this week, the TGA named Terrence Miskell of New Braunsfels as its player of the year. Miskell played well throughout 2004 and edged 2003 player of the year Alan Hill by only 60 points.
Alongside his playing partner, Titus Harris, Miskell won the TGA State Four-Ball championship, and he placed seventh at the state amateur event. Miskell also qualified for three United States Golf Association national championships.
The Woodlands' Jeff New was named regional player of the year by the TGA.
For information about the Texas Golf Summit or TGA, call 281-454-6300 or go to txga.org.