Global golf management firm selected to run Elephant Butte’s Turtleback Mountain

The world’s largest golf and related hospitality management company, Troon, is adding Elephant Butte’s Turtleback Mountain Golf and Resort to its portfolio, the company recently announced.

The Scottsdale, Arizona-based firm has entered into an agreement with PreReal Investments, the course’s owners, to manage daily operations, maintenance of the grounds, retail sales and marketing, food and drink and digital marketing, Troon announced. The contract took effect on Jan. 28.

In New Mexico, Troon also manages the Sandia Golf Club in Albuquerque and the Marty Sanchez Links de Santa Fe. 

PreReal Investments, with James Prendamano as its founder and CEO, purchased the former Sierra del Rio Golf Course of Elephant Butte in 2023 and undertook renovations of the course, driving range and clubhouse. 

The rejuvenation and rebrand led to Turtleback’s selection by the PGA of America to host the New Mexico Open from 2025 through 2027. The facility also offers practice facilities and pickleball courts. Prendamano has previously said more attractions, residential development and a resort hotel are planned around the 18-hole, 7,306-yard course.

Prendamano said in a news release that Troon “sets the global standard for golf and hospitality operations. Their expertise and service standards will elevate the guest experience and expand Turtleback Mountain’s appeal as a golf and lifestyle destination.”

Under Troon’s management, Turtleback said it anticipates more tournament activity and attraction for golfers and visitors beyond the region, raising the profile of the course as well as Elephant Butte and Sierra County. It will also participate in the company’s rewards programs, contributing to Turtleback’s brand and promoting it to a broad network of golfers.

Troon Chief Operating Officer Mike Ryan said in a written statement that the company was looking forward to “the next chapter of this remarkable property,” adding: “The landscape, the community, and the potential here are extraordinary. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional playing conditions, memorable guest experiences, and a strategic approach that positions the resort and the community for long-term success.”

Troon reports that it manages over 950 locations and over 575 18-hole golf courses or equivalents. Its website lists locations in 44 states plus Puerto Rico and across the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Australia and the Mariana Islands. 

The company also manages homeowner associations, private residential clubs and hospitality at resorts, clubs, daily fee courses and associate recreational facilities.

The announcement comes as Sierra County and municipal leaders are contemplating a formal economic development alliance, a plan discussed during a recent two-day visit by New Mexico Acting Tourism Secretary Lancing Adams, who expressed support for the idea. 

Elephant Butte Mayor Richard Holcomb told the Journal the agreement with Troon “underscores the fact that this course is a must-play destination” and would ensure the course “will attract golfers from all ove the country to experience golf at its best and all that Sierra County has to offer. Having a number of Troon courses gives me the knowledge and confidence that this is exactly the right move for all involved, at exactly the right time.”

Algernon D’Ammassa is the Journal’s southern New Mexico correspondent. He can be reached at adammassa@abqjournal.com.