Disney World Golf Courses being turned over to Arnold Palmer Golf Management

by Leah Zanolla
Aug 24, 2011

Walt Disney World has struck a deal with Arnold Palmer's Golf Management group to hand over its five golf courses. The group will take over the courses for at least 20 years and will pay an annual lease as well as split revenue with Walt Disney World.

As competition among golf courses in central Florida has grown, the golf business has become less attractive to Disney. Courses were built at an increased rate during the housing boom and now there aren't enough players to fill them. This deal allows Disney to step away from the golf business but still maintain a revenue stream from its courses. The hope is that, by partnering with Arnold Palmer, one of the greatest golfers in the history of the game, more guests will be attracted to Disney's courses rather than others in the area.

Disney's Palm course will be redesigned with Mr. Palmer personally overseeing the project. In a prepared statement released by Disney, the golf legend had this to say:

"After 40 years as a golf course architect, I'm looking forward to this opportunity to contribute to Disney's rich and storied golf legacy. I've enjoyed a lifetime of memories playing golf and it will be a great reward to pass that on to those who share a passion both for Disney and the game of golf."

The deal takes effect on September 25th.

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• Last Updated: Feb 8, 2012 - 9:40:38 AM