Chief Executive’s Message
Dear Member,
Coronavirus regulations update
The Government has relaxed the rules on wearing face coverings from today and we are pleased that the number of staff currently off work with Covid-19 has now reduced to two. To continue to protect staff and Members we are asking all staff to wear facemasks in all Member-facing areas and in back-of-house areas where appropriate. Staff are still testing twice a week, increasing to daily testing if they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive. Members are encouraged to continue to wear facemasks in all indoor areas to protect themselves and staff as we are hearing of Members still being stricken down with the disease.
10th, 11th and 12th Tees
The Club has submitted applications seeking planning permission to erect protective fencing to the rear of the 12th green and alongside the 11th tee to significantly reduce the risk of balls being struck onto Priory Lane or into neighbouring properties. Wandsworth Council is considering the ecology impact of these fences and some of our neighbours have objected but we hope to have a final decision in the next few weeks.
As golfers are aware we have had to take safety precautions on the 10th tee as balls were leaving the Club grounds causing a real danger to vehicle traffic, pedestrians and Priory Lane School. Moving the tee forward has worked temporarily but the Golf Committee would like to revert back to playing the hole by its design from the back tees. A new scheme with protective fencing to the right of the tee and on the course perimeter has been designed and submitted to the Council for approval. This also includes a realignment of the 10th tee away from Priory Lane which is being currently undertaken.
We hope to hear back from the Council in mid February on whether the new protective scheme has been successful.
Renewal of Toro Machinery Fleet for another five years
https://golfbusinessnews.com/news/courses/toro-deemed-best-again-for-roehampton-club/
The above article shows Peter and his Head Greenkeepers being congratulated on the new agreement with Toro and Reesink. A new fleet of the famous red Toro turf cutting machines will be coming in February ready for the new golf, tennis and croquet seasons. The Club invests in the best machinery for the team to use on a rolling five-year lease. Toro supports the Club with innovative staff training, tournament support across the three sports, and with sponsorship for the Junior Masters and Senior Tour Pro Am.
Date for the Diary – Come and meet Sir Andrew Strauss
We are pleased to announce that Andrew Strauss will be sharing his thoughts on the current state and his future plans for English Cricket at the Club on 28th April 2022. The Club is pleased to support the Ruth Strauss Foundation as part of that evening.
Help Tarika Gidwaney reach Antarctica
We are supporting Member Tarika Gidwaney to embark on a carbon negative expedition to Antarctica and she will be talking to the Club’s Environmental Committee on her findings and new ideas on her return. Click here to read her story and how you can support her – the use of one of her father’s vintage cars for the weekend must be worth it!
Congratulations to Joe Salisbury
Joe and partner Rajeev Ram reached the semi finals of the Australian Open Men’s Doubles but unfortunately were beaten early this morning. Joe won the title two years ago and reached the final last year so he will be disappointed not to be in the final again. Better luck for the next big tournament!
Kind regards,
Marc
Marc Newey, Chief Executive – marc.newey@roehamptonclub.co.uk