Billy Casper Golf to Manage Florida’s Ocala Golf Club

Billy Casper Golf (BCG) – the largest domestic owner-operator of golf courses, country clubs and resorts – will take the lead in management of Ocala Golf Club in Ocala, FL effective October 1, 2012.

In July, the Ocala City Council unanimously approved a five-year management contract with BCG.

BCG will provide turnkey management of Ocala’s operations, golf course and property maintenance, sales, marketing and public relations, staffing and training, merchandising, restaurant and banquet activities, special events and financial management.

“Billy Casper Golf has an unmatched reputation of making municipally-owned golf courses shine,” says Matthew Brower, Ocala City Manager. “The company’s proven track-record of boosting performances of similar courses resonated with our selection committee.”

BCG’s transition team has worked closely with City staff the past couple months to ensure a smooth handoff.

“We’ve been impressed with Billy Casper Golf’s commitment to consistency in terms of pricing and operating policies,” says Kathy Crile, Recreation and Parks Director for the City of Ocala. “At the same time, we’ve found the company’s approach to customer service and marketing is a refreshing change.

“BCG will be the difference that’s been needed in turning this program around. I’m excited about the potential of Ocala Golf Club under its leadership,”

As to personnel, Crile says, “The customer will see many familiar faces they’ve come to know and appreciate, in addition to some new faces who will provide much needed balance to the operation.”

“With an excellent, traditional layout and sense of community, Ocala is poised for growth,” says Peter Hill, Chairman and CEO of BCG. “The city and golfers who play the course will realize the Billy Casper Golf difference in the short and long term.”

BCG will enact its proprietary “BCGreen” initiative at Ocala to conserve, protect and enhance the environment and enroll the course in the Audubon International “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” program. This designation increases efficiencies in maintenance, energy, water, pesticides, fertilizer, equipment wear and labor.

Ocala Golf Club is lined with towering oak and pine trees, providing golfers with a beautiful backdrop as they navigate the 18-hole, 6,552-yard, par-72 golf course. Architect Mike Beebe recently renovated the course, maintaining its historic charm and adding modern elements to enhance playability. Five sets of tees make for fun and challenging experiences for golfers of all abilities. Emerald Dwarf Bermuda greens ensure tight putting surfaces with very little grain while short-grass collection areas and white sand bunkers offer a variety of shot options around the greens.

A driving range and practice putting green, as well as private and semi-private lessons adds to the Ocala Golf Club experience. The course is the site of The First Tee of Greater Ocala chapter.

The expansive clubhouse includes a fully-stocked pro shop, grill room dining and banquet area, making Ocala a natural setting for corporate outings, meetings and other social events.