Exciting Changes at Saddlebrook Resort in Tampa, Florida
If you’re in Tampa and you love golf, you’re going to want to pay attention! The famous Saddlebrook Resort has kicked off an exciting $92 million overhaul with the grand opening of a brand-new 13-acre driving range. This isn’t just any driving range — it has been thoughtfully designed by the award-winning golf course architect Rees Jones along with his associate Bryce Swanson. They’ve truly outdone themselves this time!
Double the Action with a Double-Sided Range
One of the standout features of this new facility is the double-sided range. This innovative layout allows golf enthusiasts to practice their swings from both sides, making it accessible no matter which way you approach. There are also two TifEagle bermudagrass putting greens and three short game areas that are perfect for perfecting those tricky shots. Plus, the best part? The driving range has been conveniently relocated closer to the resort’s main lobby, meaning you won’t need to trek far to start your practice.
A Future of Golf Awaits
But wait, there’s more! This driving range is just the beginning. In exciting news, plans are in place to remodel the resort’s two renowned 18-hole golf courses, transforming them into three nine-hole courses by 2025. Raj Mohan, the Managing Director of Saddlebrook, believes this is a significant step forward in revitalizing the resort while maintaining its core values. He emphasized how the new facility will create ideal conditions for guests, members, and even students at the Saddlebrook Golf Academy.
Honoring the Transformation
Rees Jones expressed his team’s enthusiasm for being part of such a substantial transformation at Saddlebrook. “This marks an exciting phase where we can enhance the golfing experience while providing fantastic amenities for all,” he said. Clearly, they are serious about ensuring that everyone from novices to seasoned pros can improve their skills.
A Hub for Sports and More
The new driving range isn’t the only draw to Saddlebrook. The resort already boasts top-tier sports and training facilities, which include the Harry Hopman Tennis Academy and the bustling Saddlebrook Prep. Earlier this year, the Professional Tennis Registry and Professional Pickleball Registry moved their national headquarters right to this vibrant resort. That’s how serious they are about sports!
Revamping the Resort’s Infrastructure
As if that weren’t enough, the resort is also in the process of renovating its indoor meeting and event spaces. With these upgrades, Saddlebrook will feature over 30 adaptable ballrooms and boardrooms that can accommodate a whopping 1,400 guests. So, whether it’s a corporate event, a wedding, or any special gathering, they’ve got plenty of space!
New Ownership, New Dreams
Taking you back to spring 2022, that’s when Mast Capital and Amzak Capital Management acquired the sprawling 480-acre Saddlebrook Resort. The new ownership is eyeing an ambitious plan to develop a new town center. This community hub will include 465 rental apartments, 25 lovely townhomes, and a whopping 75,000 square feet of retail and office space. And let’s not overlook the beautiful pedestrian promenade that will surely enhance the resort’s charm!
A Premier Destination Waiting for You
If you’re at all curious about what Tampa has to offer, you can’t ignore the allure of Saddlebrook Resort. Just a quick 30-minute drive from Tampa International Airport, this gem of a resort is positioned near some of the area’s top attractions. With all the exciting upgrades and future plans, it’s clear that Saddlebrook is set to become a premier destination for both guests and locals alike.
Stay tuned for more news on the transformation of Saddlebrook Resort. This is just the beginning of what could very well be a golf lover’s paradise!
