CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Pinnacle Golf Properties, a leading golf course management firm, today announced that Tony Johnson has joined the company as Vice President, Regional Operations with an initial focus on Florida and Georgia.. Johnson, a Sarasota, Florida-based PGA professional with over 30 years of experience in the golf industry, will oversee Pinnacle’s expanding portfolio of Florida golf properties and spearhead operations in the region. His addition comes as Pinnacle continues to grow its footprint and partnerships in the Sunshine State in collaboration with the Walden Golf Group, underscoring the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional service and results for its clients.
Johnson is a highly respected PGA professional and executive leader. A PGA of America member since 1994, he has served as a general manager and multi-course executive at numerous golf properties throughout his career, gaining broad experience across private, resort, and public golf operations. Johnson was inducted into the North Florida PGA Hall of Fame in 2013 and has held top leadership roles in the PGA, including serving as President and later Honorary President of the North Florida PGA Section. He is widely recognized for operational excellence and strong business and financial management. Johnson’s approach emphasizes fostering member and guest satisfaction through first-class service and implementing innovative business strategies. Throughout his career, he has been dedicated to building strong team cultures and advancing the game of golf through education, mentorship, and community engagement. On a personal note, Johnson and his wife, Lori, have three children – Alexa, Caleigh, and Anthony. Off the course, he enjoys spending time with family, relaxing at the beach, and, of course, playing golf.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tony to the Pinnacle team as we continue our expansion in Florida,” said David Taylor, Managing Partner and President of Pinnacle Golf Properties. “Tony’s depth of experience and proven leadership make him an ideal fit for our organization. His track record of elevating club performance and his passion for the game align perfectly with Pinnacle’s commitment to excellence. As we grow our presence in Florida, Tony’s insight and leadership will be invaluable in upholding our high standards of service and innovation.”
Taylor noted that Johnson’s role will also strengthen Pinnacle’s partnership with The Walden Golf Group, a prominent golf course ownership group in Florida. Earlier this year, Pinnacle entered the Florida market by taking over management of Serenoa Golf Club in Sarasota in partnership with Walden Golf Group, followed in September by The Eagles Golf Club in the Tampa Bay. Both properties are owned by Walden Golf Group, led by principal Steven Schorr, who selected Pinnacle for their passion for the game, operational expertise and commitment to quality. Johnson will work closely with the teams at Serenoa, The Eagles, and other Walden properties to ensure operational consistency and outstanding guest experiences across all Pinnacle-managed clubs. The Walden portfolio continues to grow with the pending acquisition of Twin Isles Country Club in Punta Gorda, Florida and The Club at River Wilderness in Bradenton, Florida, both of which are scheduled to transition to Walden ownership this month.
Pinnacle Golf Properties has earned a reputation for efficient, technology-driven operations and relentless focus on course conditions and customer satisfaction. The company leverages cutting-edge tools to optimize golf club performance. For example, Pinnacle utilizes PitchCRM, a dynamic email marketing and customer relationship platform, to engage golfers and streamline communications. It also employs CourseRev.ai, an AI-powered voice concierge and revenue optimization system that enables 24/7 voice-activated tee time bookings, intelligent chatbot support for common inquiries, and dynamic pricing to maximize tee sheet utilization. Pinnacle holds equity partnerships in these innovative solutions – in fact, Pinnacle’s Co-founder and COO Del Ratcliffe originally founded PitchCRM, and both Ratcliffe and Taylor serve as principals in PitchCRM and CourseRev.ai. This deep integration of technology underscores Pinnacle’s forward-thinking approach and its ability to drive operational excellence through innovation. The close partnership between Walden Golf and Pinnacle is emphasized by the fact that Mr. Schorr has recently invested in CourseRev.aihimself, and is a partner in that venture as well as the golf courses he owns.
About Pinnacle Golf Properties
Pinnacle Golf Properties is a premier multi-course golf management firm known for delivering exceptional operational performance, cutting-edge technology integration, and unrivaled client service. Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Pinnacle partners with private, semi-private, resort, and daily-fee facilities across multiple states, providing hands-on management tailored to each club’s unique needs.
Pinnacle’s reputation for operational efficiency, agronomic excellence, and strong financial stewardship has made it a trusted partner for owners seeking measurable results and long-term stability. The company’s leadership in golf-specific technology—including the adoption of PitchCRM and CourseRev.ai—reflects its forward-thinking approach to revenue optimization, member engagement, and service enhancement. (Pinnacle COO Del Ratcliffe is the founder of PitchCRM, and both Ratcliffe and David Taylor are principals in PitchCRM and CourseRev.ai.)
With a culture built on integrity, innovation, course conditioning, and exceptional guest experiences, Pinnacle Golf Properties continues to expand its footprint while helping every client “elevate the game” at their facility.
About Walden Golf Group
Walden Golf Group is one of the fastest-growing golf course ownership groups in the United States, known for acquiring and revitalizing high-potential golf properties across the country. Led by principal Steven Schorr, Walden Golf Group focuses on strategic investment, capital improvement, and operational excellence to elevate each club’s performance and guest experience.
Through thoughtful stewardship and a commitment to long-term value creation, Walden Golf Group has rapidly expanded its portfolio in key markets including Florida, Arizona, the Carolinas, Ohio, Michigan, and Georgia. The company’s collaborative approach with select management partners—such as Pinnacle Golf Properties—ensures that each facility benefits from industry-leading expertise, modern operating practices, and a guest-first philosophy.
Walden Golf Group remains dedicated to growing the game by strengthening the communities it serves and delivering memorable experiences for golfers at every level.
Media Contact
Del Ratcliffe, Chief Operating Officer
Pinnacle Golf Properties
press@pinnaclegolfpro.com; (704) 236-3921
