Troon, the world’s largest golf management company, added to its heft by acquiring OB Sports, the ninth largest management company, it announced April 1. 

OB Sports, which manages more than 70 golf courses and private clubs, will continue to operate under the OB Sports brand with the same business relationship with its existing clients. Phil Green, chief operating officer of OB Sports, and CA Roberts, president, will remain in their roles. Both were previously principals of the company along with Orrin Vincent, who founded OB Sports in 1972. 

“We are truly excited about the new collaboration and for the opportunity to advance and grow with Troon,” Green said. “Troon’s resources, combined with the company’s worldwide marketing reach, will help our existing clients, while also providing a wonderful opportunity for our OB Sports associates to grow and prosper.”

Troon and OB Sports are both located in Scottsdale, Ariz., just a 5 minute walk apart. The two companies have similar values, including a strong focus on providing the highest level of service. The OB Sports’ corporate office in Scottsdale will continue to serve as its headquarters.

OB Sports has grown from 35 courses in 2010 to more than 70. Most of its courses are in the West or Midwest. It manages two outside the U.S. — Royal Blue Golf Club in Nassau, Bahamas and Dumbarnie Golf Links in Scotland.

“Our alliance with OB Sports will support their continued growth, bring additional support and resources to bear and will combine expertise and capabilities for current and prospective clients,” said Tim Schantz, who officially took over as chief executive officer of Troon on the same day the acquisition was announced.

This latest acquisition, continues a pattern for Troon of growing through acquisitions. It follows Troon’s acquisition of Boston-based RealFood Consulting in February, and the July 2018 purchase of Cliff Drysdale Management, the nation’s largest tennis management company. Troon previously acquired Honours Golf and Caddiemaster. Other companies under the Troon brand include Troon Privé, Troon Golf, Troon International and True Club Solutions. 

“We are delighted to have OB Sports as part of Troon, continuing our growth and reach in the industry,” said Dana Garmany, executive chairman, Troon. “With the addition of OB Sports, Troon now reaches or provides managed services to over 460 18-hole equivalents at 440-plus locations around the world.”