Last flight of a Cardinal

Linger Longer at Reynolds Lake Oconee

When the Arizona Cardinals beat the Seattle Seahawks, Bruce Arians’ 50th win knighted him with the title of the Winningest Coach in Cardinals’ history. He coined the phrase,”No risk it, No biscuit” and was no nonsense, unappologetically blunt in his acceptance or instruction to players and officials alike. It was a love/hate relationship with some but most revered his honesty and most hate to see him take flight as he announced his retirement from Pro Football. Known as a Quarterback Whisperer, he helped develop the skills of Peyton Manning and Andrew Luck and increased the longevity of Carson Palmer who coincidentally announced his retirement shortly after Bruce. There is no better way for a professional coach or player to leave the game than on one’s own terms. 

When Bruce mentioned contemplating his retirement decision last summer in Georgia, he was actually referring to Reynolds Lake Oconee where he resides when not in Arizona. His love of golf and fishing is the draw to this unique area outside of Atlanta because it is one of the best golf/fish/boating communities in the nation. The lineup of golf is unsurpassed with challenge and beauty by a list of who’s who course designers – Nicklaus, Rees Jones, Fazio, Engh, and Bob Cupp. Cupp’s original course, The Landing made its debut in 1986 setting the stage for a fabulous golf destination with six resort and private course options. The 117 holes are well maintained by staff through forests and along the water edge where herons and egrets scout for fish. Fall foliage is brilliant in the autumn weeks. If time is limitied, a quick six holes on the Plantation Course can be tackled with one iron or hybrid, a wedge and putter. For full fitting of clubs, Reynolds Kingdom of Golf has the latest assessment technology from putting to full swing. Led by Top 100 instructor, Charlie King, the team is passionate about improving the golfer’s game with individual videotaping that follows you home. TaylorMade blends modern teaching techniques with club fitting to hone your game to razor sharp focus. You might say it is “taylor made for you.” 

Home options and amenities around the 19,000 acre Lake Oconee have evolved into a vibrant community. Imagine 21 miles of hiking and biking trails through the woodlands. Whether you choose a private dock on a lakeside lot or membership at a marina, boating is a relaxing or thrilling fundamental there. Development continues to improve the extraordinary lifestyle at Reynolds on Lake Oconee. In 2016, a golf village was unveiled featuring guest accommodations at the National Cottages adjacent to the golf course and the new National Tavern and clubhouse complex by the National Course. A goal of becoming a singular dining destination has been fully achieved with renowned chefs and ten culinary venues. 

The luxurious Ritz-Carlton resort set upon its own private beach and marina is a cornerstone of vacationers and local homeowners. Complete with a world class spa, the Ritz delivers ultimate indulgence year round.  

Last year, the Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds was added with nearly 100 acres featuring a 20-station sporting clays course, five-stand shooting range and air rifle facility, as well as archery and instructional/games areas and a hiking course. Certified instructors are available for lessons. A personal guide accompanies guests through all activities. Shooters on the sporting clays course are transported in a specially-outfitted sporting clays buggy. Fishing and water sports activities (kayak, canoe, motorized paddleboards) are also available at the Sporting Grounds. Rabun Neal, president at Reynolds Lake Oconee says, “It is one of the most impressive sportsman’s venues in the country. Indeed, Reynolds Lake Oconee has it all.” 

Yes indeed, 350 miles of shoreline, six courses, ten restaurants and a multitude of accomodation options provide high-end living with a southern charm atmosphere making it a great summer getaway. Now the Reynolds Lake Oconee moniker of “Linger Longer” may be applied in perpetuity by the Arians family.Thanks for the memories Bruce Arians! You will be missed. Enjoy the sunsets and golf at Reynolds at Lake Oconee.You earned it. It might be the last flight of a Cardinal but Bruce will alternate between sunny Arizona and lakeside Reynolds. 

For more information, visit www.reynoldslakeoconee.com or call 877.809.3324. Subscribers to the “Reynolds Insider” email newsletter on the website are now entered for a chance to win a golf vacation and personal round with Stewart Cink, a 5-day, 4-night stay for 2, airfare and more! 

Alice and Danny Scott are known as America’s Golfing Couple and travel the world writing for many publications. Visit their website at www.americasgolfingcouple.com.