Robert Rowling, the billionaire behind TRT Holdings, never imagined that his foray into the hospitality industry would lead to owning 26 golf courses. However, the Covid-19 pandemic unexpectedly benefited the golf industry, prompting Rowling to invest $500 million in the game during the crisis. One of his most notable projects is the Omni PGA Frisco, built on 660 acres in Frisco, Texas, featuring two championship courses designed by Beau Welling and Gil Hanse. The property includes a resort, spa, guesthouses, and a members-only clubhouse, serving as the headquarters for the PGA of America.
Rowling, now 71, reflects on his journey, admitting that he never envisioned building an Omni resort in Frisco. Despite his initial doubts, Omni PGA Frisco has already hosted prestigious golf tournaments, with more scheduled in the coming years. The resort caters not only to experienced golfers but also beginners, providing opportunities for all levels of players to enjoy the game. The resort offers various amenities, such as a two-acre green called the Dance Floor and a 10-hole, par-3 course lit until 10 p.m. Additionally, plans are underway to expand the resort to anchor the $10 billion Fields Ranch development.
TRT Holdings, the company founded by Rowling in 1989, has become a major player in the hospitality industry through its subsidiary, Omni Hotels & Resorts. With 60 properties across America and Canada, including 26 golf courses, Omni generated an estimated $3 billion in revenue last year. Rowling, who hails from an oil business background, diversified the family fortune by acquiring hotels in the mid-1990s, starting with Omni Hotels. Over the years, he continued to expand the portfolio, acquiring iconic properties and investing in golf resorts.
One of Rowling’s key strategies for growth has been to develop public-private partnerships with cities and municipalities, leveraging tax rebates to fund construction projects. By giving his personal guarantee to ensure the completion of TRT Holdings projects, Rowling made Omni an attractive partner for cities seeking to invest in convention center hotels and mixed-use developments. Despite criticisms of corporate welfare, Rowling defends the partnership model, emphasizing the mutual benefits for both the company and the local community.
The success of Omni’s Frisco project is attributed to Rowling’s strategic vision and willingness to take risks in developing unique properties that stand out in the market. As the hospitality industry adapts to changing consumer preferences and economic conditions, TRT Holdings remains focused on future projects, including convention center hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Raleigh, N.C., and a residential development near Fort Worth. Additionally, Rowling is excited about a new Omni resort near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, where he aims to compete with established luxury brands. As Omni continues to grow, Rowling’s legacy as a pioneer in the hospitality industry is solidified.
