Well, let me tell you about the man who bought the Riviera Country Club. His name is Noboru Watanabe, and he is a Japanese real-estate tycoon. Now, let me take you back to 1989 when this historic transaction took place.
At that time, the descendants of Garbutt, the founder of the L.A. Athletic Club, were the owners of the Riviera Country Club. They had maintained ownership of this prestigious golf club for many years. However, it seems that Mr. Watanabe saw an incredible opportunity and decided to make a move.
He offered a staggering $108 million to the descendants, and they accepted his offer. Now, some may say that this was a small price to pay for such a national treasure in American golf. And indeed, it was a significant investment, but for someone like Mr. Watanabe, it was well worth it.
You see, the Riviera Country Club is not just any golf club. It holds a special place in the hearts of golf enthusiasts all over the world. It has hosted countless prestigious tournaments, including the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship, and has seen some of the greatest golfers of all time grace its fairways.
For Mr. Watanabe, owning the Riviera Country Club was not just a business venture; it was a personal passion. He recognized the historical significance and the timeless beauty of this golf course. And so, he seized the opportunity to become its owner.
Since acquiring the club, Mr. Watanabe has made significant investments in maintaining and improving the course. He understands the importance of preserving its legacy while also providing an exceptional experience for its members and visitors.
Now, I don’t personally know Mr. Watanabe, but I can imagine that owning such a prestigious golf club comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. However, I believe that he understands the value and the importance of this national treasure and is committed to upholding its legacy.
It was the Japanese real-estate tycoon, Noboru Watanabe, who bought the Riviera Country Club from the descendants of Garbutt in 1989. With a price tag of $108 million, he recognized the incredible opportunity and the significance of owning such a historic and cherished golf club. And to this day, he continues to maintain and enhance its status as one of American golf’s true national treasures.