Black Enterprise has had the pleasure of hosting the Black Enterprise Golf & Tennis Challenge at the PGA National Resort & Spa in West Palm Beach, Florida, for a number of years. Not only has it been a pleasure for Black Enterprise but for hundreds of Golf & Tennis Challenge attendees who have been fortunate enough to enjoy the many amenities the PGA National Resort & Spa has to offer.
[Related: BE Golf & Tennis Challenge: Let’s Talk Tennis]
If you ask four different people what their favorite aspect of the PGA National is, you’ll likely be met with four completely different answers. One may be enamored by the spa packages while another may prefer the dining experiences. One may prefer the pools and lounging while another may be all about the golfing. Whatever your preference is, to relax or play, the PGA National Resort & Spa will provide precisely what you need.
BlackEnterprise.com was afforded the opportunity to talk with Senior Vice President of Sales and Market Development of the PGA National Resort & Spa, David Fine. He discussed the long-lasting and flourishing relationship between the Black Enterprise Golf & Tennis Challenge and the extraordinary resort.
BlackEnterprise.com: Black Enterprise has a long history with PGA National Resort & Spa. Can you tell us a little about your relationship with Black Enterprise? How has it thrived? How did it come about?
Fine: The PGA National had the pleasure of hosting the first Black Enterprise Challenge over 21 years ago. It is my understanding that the program did so well after the second year, that it outgrew the facility and moved south to Doral (which hosted the program for a significant number of years).
I had the pleasure of meeting the Black Enterprise team while at Doral where I was vice president of sales, and Joel Paige also worked with the group as managing director. Walton Capital, the PGA National Owner Group, brought Joel on board here at PGA National several years ago as president and managing director.
I’ve been affiliated with this great resort for the past five years. It’s been one of our greatest sources of pride to welcome Black Enterprise back to PGA National Resort & Spa – for three years now. And we hope to enjoy many more years of patronage. We are so glad to see Black Enterprise has found a home in the Palm Beaches and our fine resort.
For those returning to the Black Enterprise Golf & Tennis Challenge at the PGA National Resort & Spa this year, what’s new?
We have made several enhancements to the facility in the last year, including our new suite product, a lobby enhancement, the magnificent new iDeck rooftop patio dining area, and a state-of-the-art Sports & Racquet Club that will be brand new upon your group arrival.
(Continued on next page)
What does the PGA National Resort & Spa offer that sets you guys apart from anyone else?
I like to think the friendly and attentive nature of our staff sets us apart. We work very hard to create a championship experience for our guests in a genuine and sincere way that is hard to replicate. We also offer a very significant recreation and meeting platform in a destination that is world-class.
What can attendees of the Black Enterprise Golf & Tennis Challenge expect from the experience of staying at PGA National Resort & Spa?
My hope, each and every year, is that the Black Enterprise guest experiences the true hospitality that we are known for. The program and offering is very significant here. We want the guests to fully enjoy the vast amenities offered, have fun, and really get the benefits of networking and bonding that makes for an exceptional experience.
Why should the PGA National Resort & Spa be a first choice for those looking to golf and relax in the South Florida area?
With five golf courses (four on campus) we offer the most diverse golf experience available in the Southeast region. Serving all levels of golfer, from beginner to the most advanced, the resort also offers three of the most elite golf schools in the country – right here – to improve one’s game. We have an amazing campus while offering the best in sports of all kinds. Our tropical pool oasis and Waters of the World Spa mineral healing pools are magnificent and offer exceptional relaxation opportunities.
Many of the Black Enterprise Golf & Tennis Challenge attendees are looking for ultimate relaxation at PGA National Resort & Spa this Labor Day. What could these attendees do to really maximize their relaxation experience?
The 40,000 square-foot European Spa Sanctuary with 32 treatment areas offers over 100 treatment options between nails, hair, body treatments, facials and massages of all kinds.
Instead of needing to venture out to exotic bodies of water, guests can take a dip in the Waters of the World healing mineral pools before or after their treatments. The spa has re-created the experiences one might have by visiting the Dead Sea of Israel, and the Salies De Bearns in the Pyrenees Mountains of France.
(Continued on next page)
Aside from your golf course and spa, what other amenities would you encourage new visitors at the PGA National Resort & Spa to take advantage of, and why?
Guests can also tone up in the weight and cardiovascular training rooms, stretch their core in a Pilate’s class, take an early morning swim in the saltwater lap pool or even play a round of tennis, pickle ball or paddle tennis. The Sports and Racquet Club is like no other, with tons of fitness classes daily: Zumba, yoga, [and] aerobics. If it’s a way to work out, we offer it all under one roof at the all-new Sports and Racquet Club.
With nine on-site restaurants and lounges to choose from, there is truly something for everyone’s palate as well.
What is your personal favorite thing to do at the PGA National Resort & Spa?
Golf … Golf … Spa … Ironwood … more Golf … the iBar lobby bar.
Are there any coming attractions at the PGA National Resort & Spa? Something for next year’s Golf & Tennis Challenge attendees to look forward to?
Later this year we [are planning] a significant enhancement to our spa. Also, this fall, significant work is scheduled for the ballrooms and meeting complex. Stay tuned. We are always working toward continuous improvement.
Thanks for being with us. All of our 800 associates appreciate you. The amenities mentioned here are just the beginning of what you can expect from the 2015 Black Enterprise Golf & Tennis Challenge experience. Register now and prepare for a treat this Labor Day weekend, September 3-6, 2015 at the PGA National Resort & Spa, West Palm Beach, Florida.
For registration, information, and updates on the BE Golf & Tennis Challenge, September 3-6 at the PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, visit https://blackenterprise.com/events/golf-tennis-challenge/. When registering for BEGT, use discount code BEMM for a special discounted rate. For social media updates, follow hashtag #BEGT.