News Summary
Saddlebrook Resort in Florida is set to undergo a $92 million revitalization, transforming its golf courses and facilities. The project includes a redesign by golf course architect Rees Jones, converting two 18-hole courses into a unique 27-hole layout. The changes will enhance golfing and leisure experiences while also revamping guest accommodations and event spaces. Future developments include a new town center and residential units, ensuring the resort remains a top destination for sports and leisure.
Wesley Chapel, Florida – Saddlebrook Resort is embarking on an ambitious $92 million revitalization project, aiming to enhance the golf and leisure experience at this renowned destination located near Tampa. The 480-acre resort, boasting over 40 years of history, is set to be transformed with major renovations to both its facilities and golf courses.
The resort, acquired in 2022 by Mast Capital in collaboration with Amzak Capital Management, seeks to reposition itself as a top choice for leisure travelers, golf and tennis enthusiasts, and group events. Central to the redevelopment is the involvement of world-renowned golf course architect Rees Jones, who is leading the redesign of the golf grounds.
The revitalization includes the transformation of the existing two 18-hole golf courses, originally designed by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer, into a unique 27-hole layout featuring three 9-hole championship courses. This innovative design enables the courses to be rotated, providing golfers with three distinct 18-hole playing experiences. The renovation process began in late 2024, with plans to incorporate six holes from the former Palmer Course.
Upgrades to the resort are extensive and include relocating the driving range closer to the main lobby for improved accessibility. The new driving range will span over 360 yards and, along with the practice facilities covering 13 acres, will feature a double-sided driving range, two TifEagle™ bermudagrass putting greens, and three short-game areas with specialized greenside bunkers.
Improvements to the golf courses will adhere to USGA specifications, ensuring the rebuilding of green complexes and reconfiguration of bunkers. An advanced irrigation and drainage system is being introduced to enhance sustainability and optimize turf conditions. As part of the renovation plans, course distances for the new rotating layouts will measure between 6,600 and 7,005 yards, with pars of 71 or 72.
In addition to the golf course renovations, one of the new nine-hole courses is anticipated to debut in late 2025, with subsequent courses rolling out in early 2026. One of the nine-hole courses will be available for limited play prior to full renovation set for spring/summer 2026.
Broader changes to Saddlebrook Resort’s master plan, driven by EoA Group, include upgrades to guest rooms and residential-style suites, fresh dining concepts, modernized event spaces, enhanced outdoor areas, and multiple pools. The facility is also expanding its meeting space to over 40,000 square feet to accommodate group events.
Despite undergoing renovations, Saddlebrook continues to operate as a top-tier sports training facility, featuring 43 tennis courts, eight pickleball courts, a cutting-edge fitness center, a spa, and plans for a multi-court padel complex. The resort also plays host to the Saddlebrook Golf Academy and the distinguished Hopman Tennis Program, emphasizing its dedication to sports excellence.
The resort has seen notable names in tennis train on its grounds, including legends such as Pete Sampras, Jim Courier, and ATP World No. 3 Alexander Zverev, who has trained at Saddlebrook since he was a child. Troon Golf manages the golf operations and membership sales for the resort, ensuring high standards are maintained.
Strategically located just 30 minutes from Tampa International Airport, Saddlebrook is not only a destination for relaxation and recreation but also plans to develop a new town center. This area will encompass 465 rental apartments, 25 townhomes, and a substantial 75,000 square feet of retail and office space, further enhancing the appeal and amenities for visitors and residents.
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Additional Resources
- Hotel News Resource: Saddlebrook Resort Revitalization
- Wikipedia: Saddlebrook Resort
- PRWeb: Saddlebrook Resort Milestone
- Google Search: Saddlebrook Resort news
- First Call Golf: Rees Jones at Saddlebrook
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Saddlebrook Resort
- Golf Course Industry: Saddlebrook Renovation
- Google News: Saddlebrook Resort renovation
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INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
