Staff WriterIf Bobby Jones Links had a mantra, it might be something like, “Don’t just run a golf course—turn it into the heartbeat of the community.” The boutique management company, famed for putting the “links” in both golf and people, has just taken over operations at Saddle Creek Golf Club in Lewisburg, Tennessee.
About 45 minutes south of Nashville, Saddle Creek is an 18-hole, 6,700-yard Gene Bates design that’s been making golfers grin (and occasionally mutter unprintable things) for over three decades. Its tree-lined fairways, subtle contours, and the ever-present mischief of Snake Creek have made it a regional favourite.
“I’m excited to have BJL help us improve the day-to-day operations and elevate the customer experience,” said Eddie Roberts, owner of Saddle Creek Golf Club. “They’re experts at training, building, and empowering staff at courses like ours.
Their practical approach and resources for managing thriving food and beverage operations, as well as accounting systems, are what we really like. We’re excited for the future with BJL at the helm, bringing best practices and better overall golfing experiences for our locals.”
From Dormant to Delicious
Bobby Jones Links isn’t just showing up with a clipboard and a smile—they’re rolling up sleeves. The plan is to revive Saddle Creek’s long-dormant food and beverage service, rebuild bunkers, upgrade drainage, replace irrigation, and polish the course’s playability until it gleams. Add in culture-based staff training, AI-supported business practices, and accounting that would make Augusta proud, and you’ve got the makings of a fairway facelift.
Doug Hellman, Chief Development Officer at Bobby Jones Links, is already seeing results. “Eddie owns several successful businesses in Lewisburg. He’s committed to making Saddle Creek the favourite golf and social hub of the Lewisburg community, and we’re honoured to partner with him to make this happen. After only a few weeks, our team has upgraded technology, developed a business plan to reopen the food and beverage operations, and rolled out our staff training program.”
A Town on the Tee Box of Growth
Roberts says timing couldn’t be better. “Lewisburg is really growing. People are moving here from all parts of the country, and there are several hundred homes currently being permitted. BJL’s expertise in managing staff is exactly what we need to keep up with this growth.”
As more residents arrive, the club’s ambitions are growing too. Saddle Creek’s membership in the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program and its proximity to Nashville make it a strong draw for both locals and out-of-towners.
Its practice facilities are top-notch, and Roberts says visiting golfers often rave about course conditions. “The most flattering feedback we get from golfers is about the course conditions. And the design is fun, the fairways are great, and the greens are in good condition. They’re bent grass, and people just enjoy playing the course.”
Aiming for the Crown Jewel Spot
With Bobby Jones Links steering the ship, the club’s next chapter looks promising. “There’s tremendous potential to make Saddle Creek the crown jewel of Lewisburg, and we’re pleased to be involved in taking steps to improve the property and guest experience one element at a time,” said Hellman.
Saddle Creek is already known for its charm. Now, under the guidance of Bobby Jones Links, it’s set to become a destination that blends small-town hospitality with big-time golfing polish.
For more information, visit BobbyJonesLinks.com.
