Palmer Course at Stonewall Resort to Open Mar. 13

The Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course at Stonewall Resort, named by Golf Digest as their #2 Best New Course in America for 2003 and ranked as one of the top 10 new courses in the country by Golf Magazine, will open for the 2004 season, weather permitting, on Saturday, Mar. 20, resort officials announced today. Early season rates, including a 'Four for Three' promotion, are in effect. Golfers should call in advance for tee times.

Greg Parsons, General Manager for Stonewall Resort, said, We are excited to open the course to guests at such an early date. We were able to keep the course in good shape during the winter and look forward to a great season.

Parsons said the Golf Digest announcement in December and the Golf Magazine ranking of a year ago has not only generated a large amount of interest both regionally and nationally, but has helped make the course one of the 'must plays' in the Southeast.

We are extremely pleased to announce that the new golf clubhouse will open in June, Parsons added. He said the facility will offer a full service restaurant on the upper level with dramatic views of the golf course, Stonewall Jackson Lake and the resort property. The lower level contains a 1,000 square foot pro shop and locker facilities. The expanded pro shop will offer golf clubs, apparel and merchandise for sale.

Parsons said the resort also purchased 70 new Club Car golf carts. These carts are the newest on the market and offer a smoother, more comfortable ride, Parsons said. Yardage books will also be permanently mounted within the carts.

The resort has a number of activities and events planned for the course during the summer. The resort will host a July 12 qualifier for the West Virginia Classic, a Nationwide Tour event being held at the Pete Dye Sporting Club in July. Over 150 professionals from around the country are expected to compete.

The Palmer Course will also be the site for the West Virginia Women's Amateur Championship, to be held July 27-29.

Parsons said comprehensive golf education opportunities for children and adults will be offered in June and July. Stonewall Resort will host the Nike Parent/Child and Adult Golf School June 26-27. The focus of the program is to allow parents and children to spend time together while learning the sport or improving skills.

The resort will also offer a Nike Junior Resident Golf Camp, for children ages 10-18, July 18 - 22. Participants will learn all aspects of the game through various clinics, practice and on-course play.

Parsons added that private and group lessons by resort golf staff are available at any time by appointment.

Between opening and Apr. 18, the green fee rate is $50 per person. Foursomes can play for the reduced cost of $150 per group, or $37.50 per person, through the end of March. Parsons said that guests should also check the resort Web site for special golf rates and packages, which will be offered throughout the year.

Also see: golf carts.

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Alan Glover is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-golf.com. A source of information on golf equipment, golf manufacturers, supplies, tips and more.