Nicklaus China has signed a formal partnership with Hainan Air, enabling both companies to expand their reach and influence in the golf industry.

Nicklaus China formed in 2012 as an entity of the Nicklaus Companies with the focus of strategic and responsible growth of the sport in China. The new partnership will see Nicklaus China use their experience and expertise in the industry to offer turnkey development services and support to Hainan Air’s 13 golf courses, 11 of which are in China and two in the US.

“As a player and then designer, my goal has always been to grow the game around the world,” Nicklaus said. “At the same time, I think it is important to grow the way golf is developed. We have witnessed the passion and enthusiasm for golf in China, but we have also observed a need and desire for assistance in every aspect of the development process. A quality golf experience only begins with the design process, and golf course developers in China are looking for leadership and expertise in the golf and real estate arenas.”

Nicklaus Design is one of the most prominent design firms in China, with 20 courses opened since the 1993 unveiling of Chung Shan Hot Spring Golf Club in Guangdong.

“Although golf is relatively new to China compared to other markets, we can help position it as the very best,” said Nicklaus. “With over four decades working on golf courses in a variety of markets around the world, we can deliver the expertise to develop golf and real estate at the highest level, for enjoyment of the game, commitment to community, and responsibility to the environment. We share HNA’s vision to create the highest quality golf and lifestyle experiences for its members and guests throughout China. We want to put these developments in a position to succeed for future generations to enjoy. We appreciate HNA’s trust in our organisation, and we look forward to many years of this valued relationship.”

Included in the list of courses owned by Hainan Air that Nicklaus China will consult on are Beijing Golf Club, Nicklaus Town Chengde, and Nicklaus Club-Monterey, as well as the seven Hainan Air owned courses on Hainan Island and two courses in Dongguan.

“We think highly of our new partnership with Nicklaus China,” said Lu Ying, chairman of Hainan Air Holdings Group. “Mr. Jack Nicklaus has been associated with greatness for over 50 years in golf industry. We trust that his commitment and experiences to quality products and developments will help effectively elevate our golf portfolio to the premier lifestyle developments that both great companies are striving for. We will build a long and prosperous partnership with Jack as we continue to grow the game of golf the responsible way in China.”