Caeners joins The Links staff

UNION VALE — Rob Caeners, former general manager of Silo Ridge Field Club and Amenia resident, has recently become the general manager of The Links at Union Vale, which serves Millbrook and the rest of the Harlem Valley community. Since early June when Caeners made the switch, he said he has experienced nothing but positivity in his patron feedback and in his position.

Caeners was optimistic about bringing his progressive attitude  to the community at The Links, which he believes helped Silo Ridge flourish over the course of his 12 years working there. 

After the approval of plans at Silo Ridge Field Club concerning club changes, there was a delay in funding the plans. At this time, Caeners, as well as other Silo Ridge employees who worked under Caeners, made the switch to The Links. 

“It was a perfect fit,” said Caeners, explaining his decision to explore positions at other golfing clubs, “It’s a fantastic golf facility. The position for general manager opened here and things just fell into place.” 

The Links’ facility is just as its name implies — a traditional Irish Links-style golf course. As a widely acclaimed course in the Hudson Valley, it features natural beauty, open landscape and a lack of hazards and trees. The scenic Catskill Mountains can be seen from almost all of the course’s well manicured greens. 

Slight alterations have already been made to the course grounds, so as to make the club more enjoyable for golfers of all levels. Beginners and highly advanced golfers alike have appreciated the “softening” of the semi-private course.

“Everyone is happy with the changes, and I’m always looking for feedback,” said Caeners, after describing his dedication to the happiness of the club patrons.  

It was a seamless transition for Caeners. With an experienced staff and premier facility, Caeners has high expectations for future of The Links. Numerous parties have already been hosted at The Links, and there are already plans for music events next summer. 

In his short time there, organizations and corporate businesses that used Silo Ridge for different events have began to reach out to The Links. Caeners anticipates hearing from even more organizations as winter approaches. 

Aside from the many events hosted on the grounds and the stunning course, visitors can take advantage of the clubhouse facilities, which include a full service pro shop, banquet facilities and the popular Harp and Eagle Pub. 

Caeners attributes much of the growth over the past few months to the cooperation of the dedicated staff. This includes Superintendent Chris Strehl, Golf Pro Pat Sullivan and Events Coordinator Doreen Beyer. Beyer also worked with Caeners at Silo Ridge, and works to coordinate weddings and other catering events. 

“We’ve seen our busiest months, as well as one of the best seasons, this summer.” said Caeners. “There is so much buzz and excitement. I’m looking forward to seeing where we can make The Links go from here.”