Troon celebrates Yas Links first year

Troon, the leader in upscale golf course management, development, and marketing, celebrated its first-year triumphs since partnering with Yas Links Abu Dhabi, ranked in the top 50 of Golf Digest’s World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses 2020.
In August 2019, Troon announced its International Division’s latest partnership with Yas Links Abu Dhabi, sitting alongside Abu Dhabi Golf Club and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club to complete the trio of championship venues in the UAE capital.
Led by Cluster General Manager, Francisco de Lancastre David, and Cluster Director of Agronomy, Clinton Southorn, there was an ambitious vision for Yas Links Abu Dhabi from the outset. Striving to develop the overall operations, in disciplines such as agronomy and recruitment, and create extraordinary guest and member experiences through personalised service, consistency, and uncompromising attention to detail.
Through efficiently managing all departments and utilizing the Troon supplier programs and tools, Troon reduced departmental costs across all departments by approximately 10% in 2019 and 30% in 2020 (YTD). As well as reducing costs, Troon Programs delivered over $900,000 in revenues.
Agronomy and course condition were also a focus in year one and significant improvements were seen in turf health, golfer’s playability conditions and the implementation of programs to ensure long term sustainability of the owner’s assets. Highlights from the Agronomy team include the cleaning and restoration of fairway and bunker drainage system, decreasing water pores to 29.47% for enhanced soil health, and reducing irrigation water by 5.9%, a significant saving considering an additional 350 sprinklers were repaired or replaced within this time frame.
Other additional value added through Troon management included the building and hosting of a website through the Troon Partner Program and global media coverage.
Back in 2019, Troon were tasked with safeguarding Kyle Phillips’ masterpiece. A year on and the renowned golf course designer commented: “I am delighted to see the progress and accomplishments by the Troon team at Yas Links Abu Dhabi. Having worked with Troon over the years, I have confidence in their ability to manage one of my finest creations”.
Commenting on this year’s success, Francisco de Lancastre David, Cluster General Manager: “It is incredible to see how far we have come in a year with the help of our Troon International corporate office. The team at Yas Links Abu Dhabi have shown unparalleled hard work and commitment and have risen to every challenge presented. Without each individual member of the team, we would not be where we are today.”

Mark Chapleski, President of Troon International, comments: “It’s been an exciting and busy year since signing with Yas Links. Our associates have excelled in the improvements made, within the year, particularly with the challenging circumstances the last six months presented. We are exceptionally optimistic about the future of the three Abu Dhabi venues under one ownership group and continuing to promote Abu Dhabi as a must visit destination for any golf enthusiast.”
Yas Links Abu Dhabi, established in 2010, is ranked no. 48 in Golf Digest’s Top 100. The par 72 18-hole championship course, designed by Kyle Phillips, is one of the few links courses in the region and also boasts a nine-hole Par 3 academy course, floodlit practice facilities and luxurious clubhouse.