West Maui’s outstanding performer was recognized during the 2025 Troon Global Leadership Conference
LAHAINA, Hawai‘i – Kā‘anapali Golf Courses on Maui has been named the Indigo Sports’ Facility of the Year, West Region for outstanding operational performance and service excellence at Troon-affiliated facilities. The accolade was announced during the 2025 Troon Global Leadership Conference Classic held Nov. 18–20 in Scottsdale, Ariz.
“With so many exceptional facilities across Troon’s vast portfolio, we were incredibly honored,” reflected Karl Reul, General Manager, Kā‘anapali Golf Courses. “This was a team win for our dedicated staff, loyal locals, repeat guests and hospitality partners who contributed to this award.”
In 2023, the island of Maui and state of Hawai‘i were forever changed. The largest natural disaster in state history tragically left thousands of residents temporarily homeless, including employees of Kā‘anapali Golf Courses, destroyed businesses and much of the historic town of Lahaina.
Two years later, the Facility of the Year, West Region award represents a tremendous comeback, not only for Kā‘anapali, but also the Kā‘anapali Beach Resort Association, West Maui community and Troon Hawai’i.
Troon®, the leader in providing golf and club-related leisure and hospitality services, annually hosts the Global Leadership Conference. Under the theme “Building Greatness With Purpose” the 2025 Conference featured keynote speakers, special guests (including 2025 U.S. Open Champion JJ Spaun), group training sessions and company updates.
In total, more than 520 Troon Associates attended the conference including managers from 209 Troon-affiliated facilities. Indigo Sports is part of the Troon family of brands that also includes Troon Golf, Troon International, Troon Privé, ICON Management, CADDIEMASTER and Cliff Drysdale Tennis.
Notable features contributing to Kā‘anapali’s award included:
- Increased rounds and revenue YoY, almost back to pre-fire capacity.
- Events and Operations Team: Led by Sherrie Golden, Chris Smallmon and Susan Havens, had tremendous outside the box thinking and success with course buyouts for corporate group events, corporate and social team building, range events and more.
- Agronomy: Led by Kirk Bender, the overall quality of course conditions have substantially improved, especially on Royal Kā‘anapali.
- Charity: Over 30 fundraising events have been held, including notable events for Kapiolani Women and Children’s Hospital, Annual Children’s Miracle Network, Maui Hotel & Lodging Association Charity Walk fundraising events, Hawai‘i Food and Wine Festival with Roy Yamaguchi, the Hawai‘i Ag and Culinary Alliance and Lahainaluna High School events.
- Junior Programming: The First Tee – Hawai‘i, Lahaina Junior Golf Association, U.S Kids Golf, Hawai‘i State Junior Golf Association and Operations 36.
- Education: Host STEM-like training for keiki to showcase Hawai‘i-based job opportunities, and serve as the host course for two local high schools (at no cost).
- Tournaments: Marquee events include the annual Kā‘anapali Classic by OUTRIGGER (hosted by University of Hawai‘i Men’s Golf), Dr. Donnis Thompson Invitational (hosted by University of Hawai‘i Women’s Golf), Southwest Maui Invitational Golf Championship and upcoming 2026 Big West Women’s Golf Championship.
“Our golf course management team has shined in financial organization, while expertly navigating shifting business and political volumes,” remarked Michael Rock, senior vice president and head of asset management for Host Hotels & Resorts. In addition to owning Kā‘anapali Golf Courses, Host’s Hawaiian portfolio includes three resorts on Maui and two on O‘ahu. “Their continued commitment to building deep community relationships has been invaluable.”
Hawai‘i’s first planned resort, a model for resorts around the world, boasts 11 hotels, two championship golf courses, world-class dining and shopping. Kā‘anapali is a 45-minute drive from Maui’s main airport, Kahului Airport (OGG), and 10-minute drive from Kapalua Airport (JHM).