TEE TALK TIME: JOEL BARKIN SHARES WHAT MAKES TURNING STONE A TOP GOLF DESTINATION
Casino Player spoke with Joel Barkin, Turning Stone vice president for strategic communications and community engagement, about the golf scene at the property.
What can players expect when hitting one of the courses there?
With three 18-hole, championship-level courses, an indoor golf facility with cutting-edge amenities and all the offerings of a world-class resort, Turning Stone is more than just a great place to play golf. The resort is Upstate New York’s top golf destination, with courses that have earned awards and accolades from leading industry authorities that include Golf Pass, Golfweek, Golf Advisor, Northeast Golf magazine and Golf Digest. Whether they’re coming for an afternoon, a long weekend, a business trip or a longer stay with a group, players will find beautiful courses that suit all skill levels along with world-class amenities and exceptional service everywhere they go.
At Atunyote, players enjoy a Tom Fazio-designed course with real challenges in beautiful natural surroundings. With open spaces, rolling hills and unique water features, it’s absolutely gorgeous.
Shenandoah is also a breathtaking course. Designed by Rick Smith, it offers a mix of parkland, links and low-country-style holes. It’s very welcoming for newer players, but also keeps more experienced players and even pros on their toes.
The resort is also home to Kaluhyat, another 18-hole, championship-level course that was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and features striking elevation changes and breathtaking views. This classic shot-maker course rewards accuracy, making it a rewarding challenge for players.
What deals and packages do you have available this summer?
We are offering the Champions Package this summer, which includes a round of golf on each of our world-class, 18-hole courses, plus a two-night stay at The Brook, The Tower or The Lodge.
What are some of the most popular features?
Beyond our exquisitely maintained courses, indoor practice facilities, clubhouses and pro shops, guests also love the incredible level of service they receive during their time at Turning Stone. Our golf team is proud to provide personal attention for every player, from answering their questions and working with them in clinics and lessons to helping them choose the right gear. That level of service extends across the resort, so players feel right at home in our hotels, restaurants, nightlife and entertainment venues, spas and gaming floor as well.
How do players generally react after playing Atunyote or Shenandoah for the first time?
Atunyote offers a truly unique challenge, and players really feel put to the test after their first time playing there. And of course, it’s one of the most visually stunning golf courses anywhere in the world.
One thing we hear often about Shenandoah is that it delivers great playability for golfers of all levels. You don’t need to be a pro, but if you’re playing at an advanced level, you’ll still find a challenge on this course.
Are there any other promotions or events going on this summer?
For guests who want to spend even more time on our courses, we offer replay options for Shenandoah on the same day for just $50 and Atunyote for just $135. Guests can also end the day for just $10 (plus cart fees) with a more relaxing round at one of our nine-hole courses—Sandstone Hollow or Pleasant Knolls.
What else can players expect?
Players won’t want to miss our recently redesigned Sportsplex. It’s a great place to work on your game all year long with a climate-controlled environment and 36 brand-new golf bays, all equipped with advanced Trackman ball flight technology. Guests can also enjoy daily golf lessons, a variety of clinics to sharpen their skills, extended target greens and a short game area. The Sportsplex is also home to an all-new retail center with a huge selection of top equipment and apparel.
