Irving says, “Golf has seen some significant change over the last three seasons. It’s no secret that the pandemic had a very positive impact on participation rates all over North America and thankfully as things opened up again in 2022, we are still seeing the volume of players. What’s changed is how players are consuming golf. For example, once upon a time there used to be waiting lists for more competitive stroke play events, like those you see on TV. Players are preferring scrambles and team formats over competitive tournaments.” Another interesting trend Irving notes is digital golf or simulators and that some players prefer indoor golf, with one frequent user of the resort’s indoor simulators noting, “I like the simulators because I don’t lose any balls!” The truth is a golfer can play a simulator round much faster than a conventional round of golf and that’s appealing to many. With an increased appetite for clinics and lessons, the resort’s junior clinics and ladies’ clinics sold out again this year, even after increasing the number of participants. “People are just really happy to be in social environments again, especially on a beautiful summer night on the Island,” Irving says. It’s not just golfers who are excited to enjoy summer at Mill River Resort. Their resort-living community continues to grow. Their next phase of development is ready to get underway, and Irving is excited about the future, which includes 30 new residences that are slated for 2023 and will be privately- owned. There are also plans to expand the Shops at Mill River as well, a major undertaking. “This new professional and retail services centre is located off the main highway, just past the Mill Road turnoff to the resort. There’s nothing like it in this area and reception from businesses and professionals looking for high-traffic space has been phenomenal,” he said. “We are actually constructing another 10,000 square foot commercial building right now.”
(left) General Manager, Louise Arsenault (right) Resort President, Geoffery Irving
After rough tourism seasons due to COVID-19, Irving says the resort is excited about the summer season. “It’s been a long two years for businesses big and small in the hospitality sector. Mill River Resort has been fortunate to weather the pandemic well thanks to our loyal members and guests coming from across Atlantic Canada to enjoy a getaway,” he says. “This year we’re looking forward to moving on from the uncertainty of the pandemic and creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for our guests and our staff.”
Mill River Resort 180 Mill River Resort Rd. Route 136, Woodstock, PE 902.859.3555 Toll free: 1.844.375.3555 www.millriver.ca
SUMMER 2022 www.pei-living.ca
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