Every so often, a golf course emerges that captures the imagination—not just of the local golfing community, but of the sport’s most discerning players and critics. This month, that spotlight falls squarely on Turtleback Mountain Golf & Resort in Elephant Butte, New Mexico, which has earned the prestigious Distinguished Golf Destination EXCEPTIONAL Designation, awarded by BoardRoom Magazine in partnership with Forbes Travel Guide.
For those unfamiliar, this isn’t the type of recognition you simply hang on the wall. The EXCEPTIONAL status is one of golf’s most exacting honors, bestowed only after a meticulous evaluation of a property’s facilities, playing conditions, governance, and guest experience. In other words, it’s not about popularity, it’s about proven excellence in every detail.
From the moment you step onto Turtleback Mountain’s sun-drenched fairways, framed by sweeping desert vistas, it’s clear why the resort stood out. The greens are as smooth as glass, the course design challenges seasoned players while remaining accessible to newcomers, and the hospitality extends beyond polite service into genuine warmth and care.
“Every part of our operation, from the fairways and greens to the way guests are greeted, was evaluated against the highest standards in the game,” says Jon “JC” Wright, General Manager of Turtleback Mountain Golf & Resort. “This recognition belongs to our entire team, whose dedication and hard work make Turtleback a destination where golfers know they will receive a truly exceptional experience.”
For James Prendamano, CEO and Co-Founder of PreReal Investments, the visionary ownership group behind the resort, this award is a milestone in a larger mission. “Our vision for Turtleback Mountain has always been about more than golf,” Prendamano says. “It’s about creating a place built on excellence, hospitality, and community, somewhere guests and residents can be proud to call home.”
Industry leaders are taking note. “Turtleback Mountain Golf & Resort, under the ownership of James Prendamano and David Berman of PreReal Investments, and management of JC Wright, has achieved an exceptional standard of excellence,” says John Fornaro, Publisher and Co-founder of BoardRoom. “They have created the ideal balance between an outstanding golf experience, strong governance, and first-class facilities. Their commitment to quality sets a benchmark in the industry and provides golfers with an environment that is both inspiring and memorable.”
Turtleback Mountain Golf & Resort isn’t resting on its laurels. As the host of the New Mexico Open, the property is in the midst of a dynamic expansion, including a new driving range, pickleball and tennis courts, a spa, a fitness center, and 1,300 planned homesites. With its combination of championship-level golf, upscale amenities, and a welcoming community atmosphere, Turtleback is redefining what it means to live, play, and relax in southern New Mexico.
For golfers seeking a new challenge, or travelers chasing their next unforgettable round, Turtleback Mountain Golf & Resort has made one thing clear: excellence isn’t an aspiration here, it’s the standard.
