Saddle Creek Resort - the gated, 900-acre Castle & Cooke community in the scenic Sierra Nevada foothills - today announces it has expanded its practice facility to include Zoysia turf target greens, additional driving stations and an enhanced short game area with new chipping and putting greens.
Widely considered one of Northern California's true championship tests of golf, and host course for the 2006 Northern California Open Championship, the Carter Morrish designed layout now features a PGA Tour-quality practice facility for use by members and resort guests. The dense, cushiony Zoysia target greens have a unique texture and contrast reminiscent of the various native grasses used throughout the course. During winter months, the dormant Zoysia set against the deep green rye grass will provide a series of well-defined targets. The new short game area - allowing for full shots up to 90 yards - offers a wide-variety of game-honing options.
"Game improvement is a major focus of our golf program at Saddle Creek," says general manager Bill Troyanoski. "We are excited to offer this robust practice facility to our members, guests and all outside play."
In addition to the expanded practice facility, Saddle Creek recently completed a major bunker enhancement project, as all 99 bunkers on the 6,826-yard circuit were completely remodeled with new drainage, liners and sand. To further enhance the overall resort experience, Saddle Creek also introduced wine tasting nights in the foyer of The Lodge, and focused food and wine pairings that showcase the culinary talents of Executive Chef Richard Whipple.
The considerable re-investment in the golf course by owners Castle & Cooke has paid tremendous dividends. For the third consecutive year, Saddle Creek ranked among the Top-10 courses in California in Golfweek's "America's Best Courses 2006" ratings, appearing at No. 9 on the prestigious list. It was also included on Golfweek's Top-100 listing of "America's Best Residential Golf Courses." The resort placed No. 40, ahead of esteemed residential courses Reynolds Plantation, PGA West, Isleworth, Hammock Dunes, Colleton River and other high-profile east coast properties. Saddle Creek was included in the 2006/07 ZAGAT listing of "America's Top Golf Courses" and was named one of "The 101 Best Golf Experiences in the West" by Fairways and Greens.
For more information about Saddle Creek Resort, please call 800-611-7722 or visit www.saddlecreek.com.
