David Theoret
4/5
The golf course at Wellington National is a completely restored Johnny Miller design that originally opened for play as Binks Forest Golf Club in 1990. Shortly after opening the course was ranked by Golf Digest as one of the nation’s "Top 75 Private Golf Courses." The golf course sits on more than 260 acres of prime real estate in the heart of Wellington, Florida. Wellington National underwent a complete renovation in 2007 at the hands of architect Gene Bates; the current owners added their personal touch to the course more recently include some re-sodding, weed suppression, laser leveling tee boxes and filling the sand traps with beautiful new sand. The result is a course that is both fun to play and pleasing to the eyes.
With all of the pine and oak trees on the property, you sometimes feel like you’re in the Carolinas rather than Florida. The trees create several narrow corridors that must be played through and can be a little intimidating but offer a good and fair test of golf. The greens are in fantastic shape and roll fast and true.
There are several memorable holes at Wellington National, one of which is the 2nd hole. It’s a slight double dogleg that bends slightly to the left before curling back to the right and plays 490 yards from the White Tees. There’s a stream that crosses the fairway about 250 yards from the tee, so something less than driver may be needed. Avoid the sand traps on either side of the fairway on your layup shot and you’ll be faced with a short pitch into a well undulated green.
Practice makes perfect and Wellington National has the facilities and personnel to help with your game improvement. There’s a full-length range that has been tripled in size under the new ownership as well as a short game area and practice putting green.
During my visit to Wellington National, I had the opportunity to sit down for lunch with General Manager Ted Strelec and talk about all that is going on at the Club. During our conversation, I couldn’t help but get the idea that Strelec and his wife are somewhat big-time foodies. They go out of their way to find eclectic dining spots that offer out of the ordinary dishes.
That being said, it’s evident that he has played a major role in creating the menu; before we even sat down, he placed an order for Wellington’s National’s signature appetizer, Roasted Brussel Sprouts. To say they were tasty is an understatement; my wife, who is not a fan of said vegetable thoroughly enjoyed them as did everyone at the table. Other uncommon “golf club” entrée such as Bang Bang Chicken and the Smoked Fish dip seemed to have a little added foodie touch to them, especially when it came to the presentation.
In addition to golf, Wellington National offers its members several other special amenities. As part of their renovation project, the outdoor swimming pool has been completely refurbished and looks great. Members are invited to spend time relaxing by the pool and soak in some of the beautiful Florida sunshine. Lay out a towel, sit under the shade of an umbrella or take the kids for a dip in the pool.
The Yoga Room is open for private sessions and invigorating classes where you can explore the fundamentals of yoga. Your yoga fitness regimen will help you develop mind and body as you connect with your inner self.
When it comes to dining, members have a couple of options. Wellington National’s Wine Bar allows members and their guests to enjoy a wine-friendly world cuisine. Dishes range from shareable small plates to elegant entrees, all served in an intimate atmosphere.
The Champions Bistro is a more casual and relaxed setting and offers members a chance to escape and enjoy delicious fresh food either inside or on our travertine terrace, the 18th Outlook.
Wellington National’s Grand Ballroom is the premier event facility in the area with room for over 500 people as well as an additional 200 guests on the piazza.
The Club provides a picturesque and elegant setting for weddings, with tropical Florida serving as the backdrop.
