Saratoga National makes several improvements

PHOTOGRAPHER: Bob Weiner

One of the region’s premier courses is making some changes both on and off the fairways that will enhance golfers’ total experience.

Saratoga National Golf Club, which is in its eighth season, has announced several new ways to enjoy playing at the prestigious facility. There is a new restaurant, special spring playing rates and upgraded GPS systems for golf carts.

“Saratoga National is committed to offering guests the ultimate golfing experience,” said director of golf Peter Tavares in a press release. “This year, we’re unveiling an entirely new fleet of golf cars equipped with GPS yardage systems to help guests plot their course strategy.”

The state-of-the-art clubhouse has undergone several enhacements, including the new dining room and lounge on the first floor called Prime at Saratoga National, an upscale steakhouse under the management of restaurateur Angelo Mazzone. The new dining room will be open to the public for lunch and dinner every day during the golf season beginning May 24.

Also, the expanded clubhouse features a new second-floor Grand Ballroom and outdoor deck to accommodate larger social events. On the first floor, a covered veranda and patio terrace features an outdoor bar, 60-inch plasma TV and new grill menu. The entire clubhouse also offers WiFi Internet connectivity.

To help kick off the season, Saratoga National has also announced special spring rates. The daily fees include a complimentary golf car with the GPS yardage system, all-day use of the practice facilities, clubhouse amenities and locker facilities. Shoe shine and spike replacements are also included.

“Saratoga National now accepts tee time reservations from the general public up to 30 days in advance,” said Tavares. “We’re looking forward to a great season.”

Special daily fees for the spring season, with 30-day advance reservations, will be $115. Those fees will be in place through May 18.

Regular fees at Saratoga National run $130 for weekdays and $150 for Thursdays through Sundays. The fees climb to $185 on both weekdays and weekends from July 21 through Aug. 31.

Saratoga National Golf Club has received numerous awards ever since it opened. The course was ranked by Golf Digest as one of “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses” for both 2007 and 2008. The National Golf Course Owners Association named Saratoga National the 2005 course of the year.