New resort development to include first PGA of America Golf Academy in South America
FRISCO, Texas — The PGA of America has announced a strategic partnership with Punta Coral in Cartagena, Colombia, to develop PGA Punta Coral—the first PGA-affiliated golf facility in South America. Construction is scheduled to begin this spring.
Punta Coral is a premier mixed-use resort development that will showcase an 18-hole facility designed by award-winning architects Ron Garl and Ricky Nix. The course, designed for both residents and visiting players, will also host the first PGA of America Golf Academy in Colombia.
The academy will introduce the Association’s player engagement programs, with a strong focus on beginner and junior development.
A new academy building, which will be located alongside the state-of-the-art practice areas, will also serve local golf professionals seeking to complete the PGA of America’s education pathways, supporting career growth and professional development in Colombia’s expanding golf market.
“Punta Coral’s dedication to creating a world-class golf facility and fostering the growth of the game in Colombia aligns seamlessly with the PGA of America’s mission to promote sustainable, long-term development of the game worldwide,” said PGA of America Director of Global Development Sean Thornberry, PGA. “This partnership unlocks new opportunities to grow the sport in one of the most promising golf regions in South America.”
“The arrival of the PGA of America to the continent for the first time is not just a mark of quality, it’s an immense achievement and a sign for what’s to come,” said German Calle, VP of Marketing for Punta Coral. “We will work together for the good of golf in the entire region.”
With this agreement, the PGA of America now has branded golf-facility partnerships in eight countries, including Mexico, Dominican Republic, Morocco, China, Hong Kong, Philippines, Vietnam and Colombia.