Welcome to Florida’s golfing heartland story by Bill Bauer
‘S
o many golf courses and so little time’ best describes the dilemma faced by golfers teeing it up in Central Florida. That said, it behooves those visiting the region to make good choices for a stay-and-play vacation. Three courses that provide championship golf, top shelf accommodations, and excellent service and instruction are Celebration, ChampionsGate and Reunion. Celebration Golf Club is an experience and a step back in time. Arriving at the pro shop, golfers hear the soothing sounds of Frank Sinatra and other period artists emanating from the clubhouse speakers. Wooden rockers beckon visitors to sit a spell before heading to the putting green, practice facility or first tee. Eventually, enroute to the first tee, you will find the starter, donned in plus fours, parked amid a collection of restored antique cars. The golf course was the final design of Robert Trent Jones, who reunited with his son, RTJ Jr. to create a masterpiece that reflects the many courses they built around the world. Together, they used natural topography to create a park-like atmosphere that is demanding when played from the tips, but forgiving when played from the shorter tees. “With the beauty of the course, the design … everyone will have fun, because it can be enjoyed here on many levels,” Jones himself said.
48 ‹ UPSTATE LAKE LIVING
{above} The Omni hotel sits as a backdrop to the spacious clubhouse at ChampionsGate Country Club. The course is used routinely by PGA pros working to improve their games. Photo courtesy of Celebration Golf Club {below} The clubhouse stands in the background of the 18th green at Celebration Golf Club. Photo courtesy of Celebration Golf Club
