Reno course operators tee up to take over in Genoa

Genoa's two golf courses are in escrow and the new owners will take over in two weeks, owner Mario Antoci said Thursday.

"The closing date is scheduled for Sept. 28, which is the last business day in September," Antoci said. "They're literally walking in the day after I walk out."

Sierra Sage Golf Course operators Mike and Denise Mazzaferri will take over the course.

"We're excited," Antoci said. "We're very happy. I couldn't think of a better buyer than Mike, I think it's going to be great."

Antoci, who lives on the course, said he has been actively working to sell the courses for four years.

"We had the first deal around December 2007," he said. "I'm looking forward to closing the deal. I live on the course and I feel really comfortable that we've got a pro like him handling this. I plan to help him as much as I can, but otherwise I'm looking forward to just playing golf."

In August, Genoa Lakes officials announced the northern course would be closed on Oct. 1 if no one came forward to buy it.

Antoci's company purchased the southern golf course in November 2000, according to the Douglas County Recorder's website. He was the former chairman and chief executive officer of American Savings Bank.

The company acquired the northern course on March 31, 2005.

The Genoa Lakes Golf Resort course was designed by Johnny Miller and John Harbottle III., the company's website said.

The company owns 564 acres between the two courses, according to the Douglas County Assessor's website.

The northern course, located on the former Harvey's Ranch, was first approved in 1995. At the time of the approval, it was owned by Ron Simek, who named it the Little Mondeaux.

Genoa Lakes is on the site of Sierra Creek Ranch, north of Nevada's oldest settlement. The 220-home development and golf course was approved in 1992.