The Reunion Resort Press Room

Golfzon Leadbetter New World Headquarters to Open at Reunion Resort and Golf Club

ORLANDO, Fla (Feb. 24, 2022) — Golfzon Leadbetter and Reunion Resort and Golf Club are proud to announce a partnership that will establish Reunion Resort as the new home of the Leadbetter Golf Academy World Headquarters.

Situated on more than 2,300 pristine acres, Reunion Resort has been consistently recognized for providing a premier golf experience in Central Florida since 2005. It is the only resort in the world to feature three championship, signature golf courses designed by golfing legends Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Tom Watson. And now, Reunion Resort is adding another golf name to its long heritage of legends, David Leadbetter.

David Leadbetter and the Leadbetter Golf Academies have been synonymous with world-class instruction for nearly 40 years, developing 26 Major winners and 7 World number 1 players, many of whom trained and perfected their skills at its academy headquarters in Central Florida. Since 2018, under ownership of the Golfzon Group, Golfzon Leadbetter has further expanded its operation to 36 academy locations in 15 countries and as well as developing new technology to make golf easier to learn.  

“I have taught golf all over the world and there are few places as well suited for golfers to learn and play as the Reunion Resort and Golf Club. We share Kingwood International Resorts’ vision for offering the very best golf experience at Reunion. Reunion already has 3 great golf courses, now they’ll have a golf academy to match. I can’t wait to give the first lesson from the new facility.” says David Leadbetter.

Golfzon Leadbetter’s World Headquarters at Reunion will feature the latest golf technology for instruction and practice including lesson studios with launch monitors, 3D swing analysis, range radar ball tracking, club fitting, golf fitness and biomechanics. The facility will also feature a state-of-the-art Golfzon TwoVision simulator studio to host virtual golf tournaments. Leadbetter’s award-winning team of instructors will offer instruction to all levels of players including US and international Tour players, elite juniors as well as a range of programs to help amateurs and beginners.

“Reunion Resort and Golf Club gives us the perfect location to expand the Golfzon Leadbetter business as well as offering golfers a unique facility to work on every aspect of their game, whatever their level of play. We look forward to welcoming Reunion members as well as our existing clients from around the world to our new academy.”  says Benedict Riches, CEO, Golfzon Leadbetter.

“Reunion Resort and Golf Club has always been globally respected for its excellence in championship golf. Nowhere else in the world can you play three signature golf courses designed by legends Palmer, Watson and Nicklaus. This new partnership is a natural fit, bringing yet another legend to our resort with the Golfzon Leadbetter World Headquarters.”  says Anthony Carll, General Manager, Reunion Resort. “We are absolutely thrilled to be able to offer this experience this fall with such a respected legend in the golf community.”

For more information on Reunion Resort, visit www.reunionresort.com or call 833.258.0472.  For more information on the Golfzon Leadbetter World Headquarters, visit www.leadbetter.com or call 407.787.3330.

For more information please contact:

Nikki Hyytiainen
Reunion Resort
689.241.6008 * NHYYTIAINEN@REUNIONRESORT.COM

Jennifer Kirby
Golfzon Leadbetter
407-787-3330 * JENNIFER.KIRBY@LEADBETTER.COM

Reunion Resort & Golf Club Courses “Tournament-Ready” Every Day

ORLANDO, Fla. (Oct. 18, 2021) — Situated on more than 2,300 pristine acres, Reunion Resort & Golf Club has been consistently recognized for providing a premiere golf experience in Central Florida since 2005. It is the only resort in the world to feature three championship golf courses designed by golfing legends Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Tom Watson. Reunion’s Director of Golf and Course Maintenance Scott Scamehorn has implemented a new approach to golf course maintenance and care, ensuring the courses are “tournament-ready” every day.

“We’re concentrating our efforts down the center lines, while really working hard on perfecting the consistency in playing conditions” stated Scamehorn. “Our team really understands the big picture, works well together, and takes pride in the overall product and accomplishments.”

Having joined Reunion Resort in spring of 2020, Scamehorn and his team are results-oriented and ensure top quality playing conditions by focusing on the finer details of golf maintenance and course care. Scamehorn says the overall product has greatly improved by focusing on efficiency and productivity and managing all 3 courses as one.  We’ve adjusting mowing frequency along with pest management and water conservation to improve daily course conditions.  This matched with improving landscapes focused on sustainable and manageable plantings has greatly improved the overall look of the property.

                “Scott’s done a great job getting our facilities ready for peak season,” said Anthony Carll, General Manager of Reunion Resort. “I can honestly say the productivity and efficiency have greatly improved since he’s taken over, and our courses are in better shape than when the resort originally opened.”

                Located about 30 minutes from the Orlando International Airport, Reunion Resort attracts avid golfers from around the world looking to experience an enhanced level of play with exceptional conditions and the unique course layouts from 3 of golf’s legends.  With 360 resort-style accommodations ranging from luxury multi-room villas to private three- to 13-bedroom vacation homes, the property makes overnight or extended stay accommodations an easy option for group golf trips.   In addition to golf, Reunion Resort amenities include a mini-golf course, multiple tennis courts with pro shop, casual and fine-dining venues, 10 community pools, a five-acre waterpark, and 25,000 square feet of meeting and event space.

                For reservations or to learn more about Reunion Resort, visit ReunionResort.com.

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7593 Chophouse Now Open at Reunion Resort & Golf Club

KISSIMMEE, Fla. (July 23, 2020) – Reunion Resort & Golf Club, a full-service resort in Central Florida, has announced the opening of 7593 Chophouse, the resort’s newest fine-dining restaurant. Located on the main floor of the Grande building, just off resort’s elegant lobby, 7593 Chophouse serves an inspired menu of signature steaks, entrees and other chophouse cuts, and a sophisticated wine list. The restaurant’s culinary team is led by Executive Chef Sabrina Greene.

“The name is derived from the resort’s street address – 7593 Gathering Drive – but I noticed another connection that is more my style,” said Chef Greene. “The new chophouse features seven amazing sides, five savory enhancements, nine perfectly selected proteins, and three signature sushi rolls – 7593. And with our great selection of hand-crafted cocktails and select wines, it adds up to the perfect dining experience.”

Carefully shaped under Chef Greene’s direction, the menu features starters such as ceviche, crispy pork belly, and an artisanal charcuterie board, as well as hand-rolled sushi and extravagant salads. Catering to fans of Eleven, the resort’s popular steakhouse, which was closed earlier this year, the menu showcases USDA Prime steaks – from a New York Strip and 22 oz. bone-in Cowboy Ribeye, to double bone Elk Chops and the 48 oz. Tomahawk Steak for two.

“While there are other dining options at Reunion, the new 7593 Chophouse fills a fine-dining void created when we closed Eleven,” said GM Anthony Carll. “We continue to reimagine every aspect of the resort, including our restaurants, to deliver the most exceptional experience possible for our guests.”

Adding an extra touch to the steaks and other cuts, the menu includes seven house-made toppings, including au poivre sauce, bordelaise sauce, creamy horseradish, chimichurri sauce, signature steak sauce, crab Oscar and colossal grilled shrimp. Other main entrees include ossobuco, bouillabaisse and chicken & biscuits, to name a few. Signature sides include lobster mac & cheese, truffle fries and duck fat roasted fingerlings, as well as crispy brussels sprouts, poutine tater tots, baked potato, and a sauté mushroom medley.

To accompany their meal, guests can choose from a collection of celebrity-themed cocktails named for notable personalities who were known to have enjoyed a round (or two) of golf and who can be seen adorning the restaurant’s walls – Dean Martini, JFK Cape Codder, Hepburn Toast and Ole Babe Ruth, among others. The restaurant’s visible wine cellar also holds an extensive and intriguing collection of international and domestic reds, whites, and sparkling pours.

Crisp white linens, leather furniture and fine dinnerware provide a sense of elegance at 7593 Chophouse, while airy ceilings, oversized windows and lush landscaping outdoors offer a relaxed and welcoming feel. While the venue can accommodate up to 104 guests, the restaurant is operating at a limited capacity to meet current social distancing protocols. The private Palmer Room can seat 16 guests, with seating for 10 in the semi-private Watson Room.

7593 Chophouse is open on Friday and Saturday evenings from 5 to 10 p.m. Reservations are required, and available on Open Table. Other dining venues currently open at Reunion Resort include, the Clubhouse and Grande Lobby Sushi Bar.

For more information on 7593 Chophouse, visit ReunionResort.com.

Reunion® Resort Offering Florida Families Spacious Home Away From Home

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 20, 2020) – Reunion® Resort & Golf Club is offering some roomy options for families facing extended spring breaks and disrupted travel plans, but who still want a quick getaway close to home. Reunion Resort is now offering three ways to save for families looking to hunker down in a “home away from home.”

With the Fourth Night Free offer, guests receive their fourth night free when booking three nights in a two- or three-bedroom villa, or larger families can Buy Two Nights, Get Two Free on three-bedroom villas. Guests booking three or more nights can receive 25% off select vacation homes.

One-, two- and three-bedroom villas offer spacious living accommodations with fully-equipped kitchens, while vacation homes feature amenities such as private pools, home theaters, game rooms and an abundance of space to spread out.

“The health and safety of our guests is our top priority and we strongly encourage everyone to follow the latest official guidelines and recommendations during this difficult time,” said Anthony Carll, General Manager. “We hope these specials will give some families a chance to relax and enjoy a little central Florida fun. Our luxury accommodations and expansive, 2,300-acre resort offer plenty of ways for families to spend time together, while keeping a safe distance from others.”

Reunion Resort is taking extra measures to ensure guests a safe and enjoyable visit, including its award-winning dining experiences. Restaurant hours have been adjusted and will be running at 50% capacity. Curbside pick-up and delivery is available for those who want to enjoy a meal in the privacy of their villa or home. Additional adjustments have been made to the resort amenities such as golf, FootGolf, and tennis to allow for less crowded facilities throughout the day.  For current updates on resort dining and amenities, visit ReunionResort.com/cleanliness-policy.

 Reunion Resort offers guests a luxurious escape where they can obtain peace of mind while enjoying spacious accommodations, signature golf courses, dining options and wonderful amenities. For more information on resort savings, visit ReunionResort.com/offers.

Reunion® Resort Named “Employer of the Year” by Rosen College of Hospitality Management

ORLANDO, Fla.(Sept. 12, 2019) - Reunion® Resort Golf Club’s commitment to building the future of the hospitality industry has led them to earn the Rosen College of Hospitality Management 2019 Employer of the Year recognition. A leader in the tourism industry, Reunion Resort prides itself on offering Rosen College students the ability to gain perspective on the hospitality industry through a hands-on internship program and dedication to enhancing student development through various roles throughout the resort.“Through site tours, customizable internships, MIT Programs and facilitating Leadership Development Workshops, we’re able to further equip these students with the skills and knowledge they need to jump into full-time employment in the hospitality industry,” said Daniela Falzarano, director of human resources for the resort “We’re proud to be involved in this program, not only to aid in student development but to also gain perspective on the emerging talent that’s out there and build our brand through their new and creative ideas.”

Rosen College partners with employers and organizations to prepare the future leaders of the hospitality industry. Through these types of internships, Reunion Resort and other organizations provide invaluable career experience, thus offering a higher chance of job placement upon graduation.

On average, Reunion Resort employs one Rosen College student per semester, assigning them to a variety of roles ranging from serv ice to management. In these roles, the students have the opportunity to sharpen skills such as communication, teamwork and professionalism.

Reunion® Resort Nearing Completion of Extensive Golf Course Enhancement Project

ORLANDO, FLA. (Sept. 16, 2019) – Reunion® Resort & Golf Club is nearing completion of an extensive renovation project encompassing all three of its signature courses. Started in May 2019, the $800,000 enhancement includes complete upgrades to bunkers and landscaping across all greens and is scheduled to be complete this fall. All courses have remained open throughout the project.

“We are continuously improving the resort experience here at Reunion and our world-class golf courses were the next project on the list,” stated property General Manager Kevin Baker. “Our popular courses haven’t seen this scale of renovation since the early days of LPGA tournaments at our complex.”

The project is being overseen by Florida-based ONEGOLF, Inc., which boasts an impressive 20-year track record in golf construction on courses from the Bahamas to South Korea. The enhancements at Reunion include a robust landscaping design and upgrades to drainage lines and bunkers to prevent washouts and damage to the fairways. The Nicklaus course portion of the project is unique due to the nature of the subsoil on which the course was built. New bunker liners will create a barrier between the course’s clay and sand mixture and bunker sand to help prevent contamination. The Reunion team has also been working with the Nicklaus design team to reduce the size of the bunkers to improve playability and allow for more efficient maintenance. Work on the Arnold Palmer course is complete, with only a few bunkers remaining on Jack Nicklaus, and renovations to the Tom Watson course are expected to be completed by October.

“Response from our members and guests so far has been overwhelmingly positive,” stated Baker. “They notice the improvement to the look and play of the courses and are pleased with the end result.”

Recognized by Golf Digest (2018) as one of only six of the “Best Golf Resorts in Florida,” Reunion’s three courses offer something unique during each round. Designed by legendary greats, the courses are of championship level with recent enhancements taking them to the next level of experience. Known for its Parkland-style smooth and flowing layout, the Jack Nicklaus course is as deceptive as it is beautiful, with long horizon lines and elevated tee boxes and greens. Highlighted by fast, firm and wide-rolling fairways, the 7,154-yard, par-72 Tom Watson course is as much about strategy as it is about length. And, at the 6,916-yard, par-72 Arnold Palmer course, players experience rollercoaster-like terrain where dramatic elevation changes – some up to 50 feet in places – create a unique variety of risk/reward shots.

In addition to the three signature golf courses, guests at Reunion Resort enjoy an array of amenities, including six hydro-grid clay tennis courts, a five-acre waterpark, 10 community pools, a full-service boutique spa, and seven casual and fine-dining venues. The property features 360 resort-style accommodations ranging from luxury multi-room Villas to three- to 13-bedroom vacation homes and was named a 2019 AAA Inspector’s “Best of” Housekeeping hotel.

New Clubhouse at Reunion® Resort’s Nicklaus Course Opens

ORLANDO, FL (Dec. 4, 2018) – Reunion® has opened a stunning new clubhouse at its Signature Design Nicklaus Course.

Located on over three acres, the new 12,000 square-foot clubhouse features panoramic views of the course and includes a state-of-the-art fitness center, men’s and women’s locker rooms and showers, a golf lifestyle retail space, an event lawn for group functions and special events, and an upscale sports bar called “Traditions,” complete with an open kitchen and outdoor terrace with views of the 18th green.

A tribute to Jack Nicklaus’ masterful layout, the new clubhouse includes furnishings, artwork and memorabilia related to Nicklaus’ decorated career.

“We are confident that every member and guest will enjoy this distinctive golf experience,” says Reunion Resort’s General Manager Kevin Baker. “It is always our desire to provide the best in service, facilities and playing conditions. This clubhouse provides an intimate and refreshing location to gather with family and friends, or share the triumphs of a day of championship golf at Reunion.”

The new clubhouse is part of a multi-pronged improvement plan at the Nicklaus Course. Before the construction of the clubhouse began, the 17th and 18th holes were re-routed to elevate the finishing experience. Significant bunker improvement work has just been completed, while several spectacular homes have now been built in the surrounding Bear’s Den community – creating a true enclave for golfers.

The clubhouse was inspired by the rich heritage of Mediterranean Revival architecture in Florida and in particular the work of Addison Mizner. It features large French doors opening to terraces with dark wood roof overhangs. The roof is shaped with barrel tiles and walls of rough stucco that provide depth and texture, along with ornamental ironwork and cast stone window frames.

The interior design is characterized by rich woods and contrasting light walls, textural fabrics, and natural earthy colors such as olive, terracotta, and soft blues. The restaurant floor mimics terracotta tiles found in Mediterranean manors, while the rich millwork with iron metal detailing and beamed ceilings ensures each guest feels a luxurious sense of place.

The clubhouse’s dining experience is an upscale sports bar called Traditions. Serving American regional cuisine, the menu is seasonal and local with farm-to-table elements. The bar includes a signature drink menu, including craft cocktails and signature barrel-aged bourbons. The open-air kitchen and service style is designed to be friendly and welcoming, appealing to both members and the local community. On weekends, Traditions offers live musical entertainment making it a perfect gathering place for celebrations large or small. All of the doors to the dining terrace, which overlooks the 18th green, open to allow the entire restaurant to enjoy an afternoon breeze during nice weather months.

Opened in 2006, The Nicklaus Course was designed to flow smoothly and gently from tee to green. A target, parkland-style course, it was designed to be a player’s course rather than what is referred to as “resort golf.” While the 7,244-yard layout is not exceptionally long by today’s standards, postage-stamp greens, forced carries that lead to fairway targets sometimes only 50 yards wide and a fair amount of trouble for wayward shots give the course plenty of bite.

The Nicklaus Course remained open throughout the Clubhouse construction process. Additionally, Reunion’s two other Signature layouts, the Watson and Palmer Courses, also continued to accommodate guest and member play.

Reunion Resort features 360 resort-style accommodations ranging from luxury suites and condos to multi-room villas and private 3-to-13-bedroom vacation homes. Recognized as a top golf destination, Reunion is the only location in the world featuring three signature championship golf courses designed by golf’s greatest legends: Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Tom Watson. The amenity-rich resort also features eight casual and fine dining options including an award-winning rooftop steakhouse, elegant indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, six hydro-grid clay tennis courts, a full-service boutique spa, 10 community pools, and a 5-acre waterpark including slides, a water playground, and a 1,000-ft. lazy river. With various real estate and membership opportunities available, guests can stay for a weekend or become members for life.