Chief Executive’s Message
Dear Member,
Happy New Year to you all.
I am pleased we have been able to open the golf course over the last few days after experiencing the heaviest rainfall in October, November and December in living memory. We had 106.5mm of rain in December which was double the amount in 2017 and ten times more than 2016! The effects of global warming no doubt. We had to keep the course closed because many of the holes were unplayable and any Member traffic would potentially ruin the tee and putting surfaces. Most Members were very understanding and have been commenting how good the course is looking on seeing the benefit of protecting it when sodden. We are now lightly aerating the greens to ensure good drainage.
Indoor Tennis
The new indoor tennis court booking rules have come into effect as we strive to ensure Members release courts for others when not used and to create five extra court hours per day so as many Members as possible can use the Indoor Tennis Centre. Please ensure you release courts well in advance if you can’t play otherwise you may lose your booking rights. The Tennis Committee is also keen to maintain the balance of adults having five courts to book and Juniors having one court to book on weekend mornings. Over 100 juniors can be coached in the morning on Court One every weekend while leaving the other five indoor courts for adults to book at that time.
Commiserations to Joe Salisbury playing doubles with Jamie Murray in the ATP Cup in Australia last night. Joe played brilliantly for GB to beat Belgium and Moldova this week and they just lost 18-16 in the third set tie break against Australia in the quarter final. Fantastic start to the season for Joe and let’s see how he performs in the Australian Open a few weeks’ time.
New Year Social events
Three notable social events in January and February may need booking early for – Roehampton Reels (Burns Night Celebration) on 25th January with the chance to practise your reeling on Thursday 23rd at the evening reeling class. Book for a chance to taste all the Club’s wines with some accompanying nibbles and advice from our Wine Committee on 13th February. Plus the chance to meet film and TV star Philip Glenister talking to Paul Mendelson on 21st February which will be a very entertaining evening. Book now at Reception for all the events or give them a call on 020 8480 4200.
Roehampton Club Gin
I must thank the Wine Committee and our beverage supplier Tolchards for selecting the ingredients for our expertly crafted Roehampton Club Gin. Using botanicals from our gardens and around the estate, Members are commenting on how subtle and unique the taste is. Try a glass with tonic and a slice of grapefruit in the Members Bar.
Squash championships
The squash season now starts its very busy time and we host Division Two of the Public Schools Championships this Sunday if Members would like to watch. We host the Public Schools and University Cup championships over the next two months as a showpiece for young rackets players to join our Club if they intend to work in London or are moving here with their studies.
Dress Code and General Etiquette
Lastly as we start a new year and decade can all Members please observe the Club Rules on dress code and general etiquette based on respect and tolerance, fairness and friendship for all. Please find below a quick reminder which will also be made available to all Members whether new and long standing. Thank you.
Best wishes,
Marc
Important Rules Reminder for 2020
MOBILE PHONES
NO CALLS except in changing rooms or car parks, no photos without permission.
DRESS CODE
Formal on court/informal off court, but clean and compliant at all times.
SPORTS BAGS
Left outside Club Café and Members Bar or in lockers.
ALCOHOL
To be consumed in moderation.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
No food to be brought on site without permission
CONDUCT
Be respectful to all fellow adult and junior Members.
COMPLAINTS
In writing to the General Manager or Chief Executive.
STAFF
Neither reprimand nor reward – be respectful at all times.
CHILDREN AND GUESTS
… are your responsibility.
PERSONAL PROPERTY
Left at your own risk.
CAR PARKING
With care and not left when off site.
Log into the Members’ website for a full explanation of all the Club Rules at: www.roehamptonclub.co.uk/clubrules
Thank you for your co-operation.
Board of Directors
January 2020