Troon
A $92 million revitalization is underway at Saddlebrook Resort, the 480-acre property near Tampa, Florida. The resort is reestablishing the property as a haven for golfers. Acquired in 2022 by Mast Capital in partnership with Amzak Capital Management, the reimagination includes a full-scale golf overhaul.
Golf course architect Rees Jones is spearheading a redesign of Saddlebrook’s historic golf grounds. The vision: transform the two existing 18-hole layouts—originally designed by Arnold Palmer—into a versatile 27-hole championship facility. The three newly conceived nine-hole courses can be rotated in various combinations to create three distinct 18-hole challenges, each offering a unique playing experience. The renovation began in late 2024, incorporating six holes from the former Palmer Course and relocating the driving range closer to the main resort lobby for improved accessibility. The practice facilities now span 13 acres and include a double-sided driving range, two putting greens, and three short-game areas with greenside bunkers.
Jones’ renovation preserves the legacy of the original courses while elevating them to modern championship standards. All green complexes are being rebuilt to USGA specifications; bunkers are being reshaped, repositioned, and filled with new sand; and tee boxes are being added, rebuilt and laser leveled. An advanced irrigation and drainage system is also being installed to optimize turf conditions and long-term sustainability.
Upon completion, the three nine-hole layouts will converge near the resort’s redesigned pool, creating a cohesive golf experience. The three configurations will rotate daily, with course distances ranging from 6,600 to 7,005 yards and playing to pars of 71 or 72. One course is slated to debut in late 2025, with another to follow in early 2026. The third is currently open for limited play and will undergo full renovation in spring/summer 2026.
