Saratoga County

Saratoga National Golf Club offers a special experience

For a first-class golfing experience no matter what your handicap, Saratoga National Golf Club shoul
Saratoga National Golf Course in Saratoga Springs.
PHOTOGRAPHER:
Saratoga National Golf Course in Saratoga Springs.

For a first-class golfing experience no matter what your handicap, Saratoga National Golf Club should be first on your list when you’re taking an off day at the track.

Just a few furlongs from Saratoga Race Course, Saratoga National is at 458 Union Ave. in Saratoga Springs. Just take Northway Exit 14, and instead of turning west toward the track, go east on Union Avenue. The course is on your right. A huge statue of a thoroughbred race horse near the course entrance lets you know you’re at the right place.

Saratoga National is definitely the jewel of the Greater Capital Region/Saratoga golf scene. Built in 2001 by Roger Rulewich, Saratoga National can stretch out to more than 7,200 yards. It offers challenges for all levels of players and is one of the most esthetically pleasing layouts in upstate New York.

“We’re the best-conditioned course in the area,” said Saratoga National head pro Steve Plata. “Not only do we have easy access from the track, but we offer a test for everyone. Our course can be played from five different tees, from 4,800 yards to more than 7,200. We have a set of tees for everyone to play, and we encourage people to choose the right one for them.”

Plata said that the course architect is a descendent of famed course designer Robert Trent Jones. There are plenty of bunkers, high rough and water hazards to avoid.

“We try to make your golfing experience complete,” said Plata. “We have an outstanding practice facility to prepare you for your round, and all our brand new golf carts come complete with a GPS system and complimentary water. You can also order lunch from your cart.”

When the golf is done, Saratoga National, rated the second-best public course in the state by several leading golf magazines, also offers five-star eating at the Prime restaurant. Patrons can eat inside or outside on the patio, with an excellent view of the course.

Cost to play Saratoga National both during the week and the weekends during racing season is $195 per person, including cart. Call 583-4653 for reservations.

Other local courses

Other Saratoga region courses close to the track include:

Airway Meadows, 262 Brownville Road, Gansevoort (792-4144).

Ballston Spa CC, Route 67, Ballston Spa (885-7935).

Brookhaven GC, 333 Alpine Meadow Road, Greenfield Center (893-7458).

Eagle Crest GC, 1004, Route 146A, Clifton Park (877-7082).

McGregor Links CC, 359 Northern Pines Road, Wilton (584-6664).

Saratoga Golf & Polo Club, 301 Church Street, Saratoga Springs (584-8122).

Saratoga Lake GC, 35 Gracemore Road, Saratoga Springs (581-6616).

Saratoga Spa State Park, 60 Roosevelt Drive, Saratoga Springs (584-2006).

Categories: Sports

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