Patrick Manning is a real estate development veteran with over three decades of experience and $8 billion in real estate sales. As the managing partner of Black Desert Resort, he is hosting the inaugural Black Desert Championship, featuring a Tom Weiskopf-designed course in Southern Utah. Manning is focused on enhancing player experience and developing the region around St. George, looking to push the envelope in the golf resort industry.
One of Manning’s priorities is providing players with a unique and private experience at Black Desert Resort. He has created exclusive accommodations, locker rooms, player-only dining, and fitness facilities to ensure players have privacy and a five-star experience. Manning envisioned all the pieces of the resort, including the golf course and amenities, but the PGA Tour event was more of an afterthought that has now become a reality.
Manning is always thinking one step ahead and is looking to secure a PGA Tour event in the spring at Black Desert Resort. He is encouraged by the positive feedback from players during the championship and is focused on improving any areas that may need enhancement for future events. Manning aims to provide top-notch player and fan experiences, ensuring that everyone enjoys the tournament and the resort facilities.
The attention to detail and planning at Black Desert Resort sets it apart from other tournaments. Manning has taken steps to reduce the intrusion of spectators on players, creating designated areas for practice and fan engagement. He is committed to providing equal treatment for male and female golfers, highlighting the importance of elevating the women’s experience to match that of the men.
While there have been discussions about expanding the resort facilities to include an arena for concerts and events, Manning emphasizes that it is still in the exploratory phase. He is attentive to the needs and desires of the community and state, focusing on evolving Black Desert Resort based on feedback and demand. The goal is to provide the best possible experience for visitors and residents, listening to input before making any significant decisions about future developments.
Black Desert Resort has already garnered significant attention and visitor interest, surpassing the number of visitors to other popular destinations like Park City. Manning believes in testing and evolving the resort experience to meet the demands of guests, ensuring that Black Desert remains at the forefront of luxury golf resorts. By listening to feedback and staying engaged with the community, Black Desert Resort aims to provide a one-of-a-kind experience for all who visit the property.

