LONDON HUNT AND COUNTRY CLUB CLUB LIFE magazine INSIDE ARE WE THERE YET MYTH BUSTERS UPCOMING EVENTS ISSUE THIRTY SIX WINTER 2023 2024
Board of Directors LONDON HUNT AND COUNTRY CLUB MEMBERSHIP The Club s distinction as one of the finest in Canada inspires us to endlessly create an experience beyond expectations Now consider how do you enjoy your membership On the course on the courts dining entertaining With family celebrating holidays making lifelong friends learning something new There are so many ways to enjoy Membership at the London Hunt and Country Club If you would like to share the joy of membership with co workers friends or family by introducing them to the Club as potential members please contact Brandie Cooper Membership and Communications Manager for information Brandie Cooper Membership and Communications Manager 519 471 2523 extension 213 bcooper londonhuntclub com
Board of Directors BOARD OF DIRECTORS Doug Davis President Dieter Bruckschwaiger First Vice President Marcia Roberts Second Vice President Peter Hall Past President Bob DiFruscia Director Marlene McGrath Director Jeff Doty Director John Stein Director Sandra Van Ymeren Director Twee Brown Director John Spriet Director MANAGEMENT TEAM Jon Nusink CCM CCE Chief Operating Officer Chris Lawson PGA of Canada Director of Golf Jayson Griffiths Director of Agronomy and Grounds Adam Baranowski Director of Racquet Sports Ken Cannon CPA CA Director of Finance and Administration Michael Hearse CCM Director of Clubhouse Operations Tracey Machesney Fitness Manager Michael Stark Executive Chef 2 CONTENTS WINTER 2023 2024 10 ARE WE THERE YET WHAT S INSIDE 8 FACES IN THE CLUB 21 TRAP AND SKEET REPORT 14 WONDERFUL WORLD OF GOLF ALSO IN THIS ISSUE PRESIDENT S MESSAGE 03 C H IEF O PER ATIN G O FFIC ER S REPORT 05 GROUNDS REPORT 15 A TRIUMPH IN RACQUET SPORTS 1 7 FITNESS AND HEALTH MYTH BUSTERS 19 JUST FOR JUNIORS 23 EVENT CALENDAR 25 On the Cover Photography by Saleme Fayad Photography WINTER 2023 2024
PRESIDENT S REPORT Board of Directors PRESIDENT S MESSAGE Doug Davis douglas_davis rogers com The golf course renovation was completed in midAugust just over 12 months and consistent with the project timeline In the next few months the final work on the pond between holes two three and four will be completed Overall cost including this work is expected to be within a couple percent of the original 8 25 million budget All of us fortunately had a wonderful late summer and fall to enjoy the renovated golf course My personal favourite change is the addition of the new burgundy tee blocks at 6 000 yards in length Next year we will enjoy our first full season on our golf course in five years Once again a huge thank you to Doug MacKenzie Jayson Griffiths Chris Lawson and their teams along with the Hurdzan team of consultants Our Golf Pro Shop continues to provide exceptional service management of tee times and pace of play compliance In 2023 we had our lowest variance in years between requested tee times and allocated tee times where the average variance was just 20 minutes for most of the season Regarding pace of play I am sure you recognized our Golf Pro s performing on course monitoring this past year to locate slowdowns and provide advice to those golfers In the upcoming year you can expect to see electronic monitoring through our new GPS equipped golf carts Our Racquets Team led by Adam Baranowski provided our members with another wonderful season of tennis and pickleball The usage of our tennis courts remained consistent with the prior year while pickleball usage increased by 60 improving the competitiveness on these courts Associates will continue to have access to all courts Clinics currently providing coaching and skill improvement for pickleball players will be considered for 2024 The Management Team recently prepared the budget for 2024 After receiving feedback from both the Finance and Audit Committee and the Board and through a couple iterations it was ultimately approved by the Board Based on the approved budget the following is being reported An annual dues increase of 183 for the primary member and 65 for a spouse in the main membership categories which include Resident Shareholder Senior Life Intermediate 30 34 and 3 WINTER 2023 2024
PRESIDENT S REPORT Intermediate 35 39 This represents an increase of 2 75 in dues for the Resident Shareholder category The 2024 Fee Schedule is available on the website under Members Home Resources An increase in the quarterly food and beverage minimums to 250 per quarter for those categories subject to minimum requirements beginning January 1 2024 the minimums had not been increased in nearly 30 years A budgeted increase in the operating cash balance after all capital spending of over half a million dollars We will be welcoming 12 new families to membership on January 1st With normal attrition we expect to maintain our continued target of 1 560 eligible golfing members Monitoring of member usage levels in 2024 will assist management and the Board with determining appropriate targets going forward On behalf of myself and the Board we wish each of you a happy holiday season and winter Doug Davis Club President Our Restaurant Renovation Project started mid October and will move into high gear in January So far the old fireplace ceilings and all flooring have been removed from the Terrace room The plumbing for the new bar will be installed soon Millwork for the bar is being fabricated offsite and furniture and equipment has been ordered This project is expected to be on budget and completed by Spring 2024 Next season will be an opportunity for all members to enjoy our renovated restaurant and bar areas 4 W I NST EP RR I2N0G2 32 2002204
COO REPORT Winter Report Jon Nusink GM COO jnusink londonhuntclub com As the year comes to a close we at the Club would like to take a moment to reflect on the past year and express our gratitude to the members for their continued support We are proud to have been able to provide a safe and welcoming environment for members to enjoy their favorite activities and create lasting memories with their loved ones This past year was a major one of change with the completion of our golf course project which was many years in the making The patience by members while we undertook this improvement project was great and only eclipsed by the hard work and dedication of those directly involved By the time of publication completion work will be underway on the pond between the 3rd and 4th holes This will include the recontouring of the pond and green at 4 the installation of armour stone in areas the clearing of scrub brush in the swampy area and the installation of drainage swails that will dry up the area This work will be completed by the end of the year and repair and resodding work will be done in the spring The Restaurant Renovation Project is progressing well The Terrace Lounge is currently fully demolished and ready for finishings The remainder of the project will commence in the new year however we are currently exploring the possibility of handing over the Grill Room early to allow for demolition in this area prior to Christmas Updates will be available in the weekly eNews We were very happy to welcome 17 new families and 5 reinstating families to full membership this past year At the end of this year we are expecting our waitlist to be at a record 62 families the top 24 of which are in the Veranda Category which include Club privileges with limitations on golf This waitlist is estimated to be a 3 to 4 or 5 year wait from the bottom to full membership at this time but could be greater depending on uncontrollable factors such as attrition Each year at our annual staff new years party held in late January we recognize the hard work of long term staff with quinquennial awards This year we will be honouring the following for 5 years of service Mitch Bukata House Alicia Clow Ennis Fitness Curtis Veenstra Grounds Penny Vowels Admin and Richard Renwick Grounds We will also be honouring the following for 10 years of service Bill Cavanagh Grounds and Trap Matt Deans Grounds and Trap Roger Erickson Pro Shop and Trap and Karrie Ruppel Food and Beverage Thank you to all of you for your loyalty and years of service A few issues ago I encouraged all members to share with us some special memories or stories about the Club I think history is important and especially from unique perspectives Since then I have spoken to several members who mentioned that it was a great idea however when I asked them if they had their own story to tell the answer was that they felt it was their own experience and not really history about the Club However I think these are the best stories to have shared to other members Our own unique experiences at the Club are what build history and culture Therefore I would urge any member who has any special memory about the Club to forward us those stories My goal would be to have at least a small submission for every issue moving forward so I need you to help I can t wait to hear the stories and I know others can t either The Trap and Skeet season is now underway The kickoff event was a new shooters session on November 18th with 6 new shooters in attendance The first competition was November 25th with the historic Sue Thompson Shoot The season continues Wednesdays 3 00 p m to 8 00 p m and Saturdays 9 00 a m to 4 00 p m all winter long Even if you don t shoot it s an interesting sport to spectate and the Trap Chalet is open to all members over age 12 during those times Dinner is catered a la carte from the Clubhouse to the Chalet Wednesday nights and on Saturdays 5 WINTER 2023 2024
COO REPORT via a cook onsite providing breakfast and a BBQ lunch Please come and experience the cozy Chalet and grab a bite or beverage while you re there We are now into winter hours meaning the food and beverage department is closed on Mondays The Clubhouse will be closed from December 24th to 26th and on January 1st Please refer to the weekly eNews for updated hours by department Winter has always been a special time at the Club We have many Christmas and holiday events planned throughout December with key ones being the Men s and Women s Christmas Parties on the 6th and 7th the Santa Brunch on the 17th the Hunt Club Family Christmas on the 23rd and New Years Dinner on the 31st The Club is a great place to make memories with family and friends And with that on behalf of the Staff I wish you a very safe and happy holiday season and a prosperous and healthy new year LONDON HUNT AND COUNTRY CLUB IN MEMORIAM Gordon Leboldus August 25 1936 October 24 2023 6 WINTER 2023 2024
HUNT CLUB HISTORY DID YOU KNOW In 1919 following the carnage of World War I the Duke of Windsor pictured in the foreground visited London and played a round at the original London Hunt and Country Club located at Richmond and Windermere with then Golf Professional Kearney Marsh pictured in the background and Lieutenant Colonel Trotter In 1936 the Duke of Windsor ascended to the throne as King Edward the VII He was abdicated within the year to marry Wallace Warfield Simpson an American divorcee and King George VI was crowned 7 WINTER 2023 2024
FACES IN THE CLUB Faces in the Club KIANA JOHNSTON FOOD AND BEVERAGE Bio Born in the quaint town of Welland Ontario my childhood unfolded amidst the sun kissed landscapes of Trinidad and Tobago a truly unique and special experience that I cherish Growing up under the warm Caribbean sun I was fortunate to learn the ropes of hospitality and the restaurant industry at my family s well established finedining restaurant in Trinidad This invaluable experience has shaped my approach to service At 17 I returned to Canada to pursue my education and in 2021 embarked on a new chapter here at the Country Club It s a pleasure to bring the warmth of my diverse background to our community creating memorable experiences for all Future Goals Eager to meld my cultural influences and diverse experiences I envision a path that extends into uncharted territories Whether through exploration of various industries or embarking on journeys of travel and discovery my goal is to cultivate a rich tapestry of experiences As I navigate this dynamic journey my ambition is not only to contribute to the professional landscape but also to explore the vast spectrum of possibilities that life has to offer With an open heart and a curiosity that knows no bounds I look forward to embracing the unknown creating meaningful connections and crafting a narrative that resonates both locally and globally Hobbies Outside the hustle of work I cherish moments with my favourite people which includes my chocolate lab Cali We re all about easygoing adventures and exploring new spots together especially gravitating toward the beach whenever possible I m not a master chef but I am a food enthusiast Trying out different restaurants and savouring good eats is my idea of a good time When I m not on a foodie mission you might find me on the golf course I picked up the game about five years ago It strikes a balance between challenge and relaxation that I enjoy And if I m in need of some serious downtime a day at the beach basking in the sun and surf is my go to These simple joys shape my downtime making it a mix of relaxation and genuine enjoyment Favourite Thing About the Club Without a doubt my favourite aspect of the club boils down to the people The camaraderie among my coworkers is a constant source of support and friendship making every workday feel like a shared adventure What truly makes coming to work a joy is the incredible rapport I get to build with the members Their warm and friendly nature transforms the daily routine into something truly enjoyable Interacting with them is more than just a part of the job making each interaction a highlight of my club experience 8 WINTER 2023 2024
CLUBHOUSE REPORT 909 WINTER 2022 2023
CLUBHOUSE REPORT Are We There Yet A SUMMARY OF THE FINAL PHASE OF RESTAURANT RENOVATIONS AND OPERATIONS DURING CONSTRUCTION Michael Hearse Director of Clubhouse Operations mhearse londonhuntclub com Learn about the plan at www restaurantmasterplan com It should be noted that the details communicated within this article could change to accommodate service or be amended for structural or construction related reasons We appreciate your patience and understanding with any adjustments that might occur throughout the projects As we anxiously wait for the final phase of our restaurant renovations to begin in full the sounds of progress are already ringing out from the former Terrace Lounge as our General Contractor begins construction of the 360 degree bar With the bulk of the work taking place between January 1st and the projected completion date of March 31st it was thought beneficial to revisit together a high level summary of the project and what operationally will be available throughout this final phase We would also like to remind you that much of this information is available at restaurantmasterplan com a website that houses all renderings walkthroughs and financial information on the project Furthermore we would like to express our sincere appreciation for your continued commitment to the growth and evolution of the food and beverage amenities of the Club We look forward to the welcoming atmosphere beautiful views and operational efficiencies it will bring Terrace Lounge and Grill Room The Future Thames Grill The new Thames Grill adjacent to the Glenmore Lounge and Dining Room offers a more relaxed and modern dining experience for Club members before and after golf and a destination for families Aligned with the palette and finishes of the Glenmore rooms and the new Caf 1885 the spaces all provide their own unique dining experience while continuing the motifs throughout The large island shaped bar is the main focus of the restaurant and serves as the hub of activity The back bar features overhead TVs and a stunning liquor display making it the perfect spot for guests to gather and socialize Large windows and added doors offer uninterrupted views of the outdoors bringing the beauty of the Terrace and the Club s surroundings inside Comfortable and inviting the Thames Grill offers a variety of seating options from lounge chairs and dining tables to high top tables Guests are invited to relax and enjoy a meal in a welcoming and casual atmosphere A modern stone feature fireplace wall adds to the relaxed ambiance while modern light fixtures and a welcoming art gallery wall complete the sophisticated and stylish decor Whether enjoying a casual meal with family or catching up with friends the new Thames Grill is the perfect place to unwind and relax Glenmore Dining Room and Lounge As guests arrive at the Glenmore Lounge and Dining Room they are immediately greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere at the host stand The traditional wood paneling of the entry corridor sets the tone for the sophisticated and elegant spaces to come The new herringbone wood floors add to the welcoming ambiance as guests approach the host stand and admire the new large trophy and heritage display case showcasing the Club s proud achievements and traditions This initial experience sets the stage for the luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere that awaits guests in the Glenmore Lounge and Dining Room Whether relaxing by the fireplace in the lounge or dining in the elegant circular shaped dining room guests are sure to enjoy a truly memorable experience at the Club The Glenmore Lounge exudes sophistication and luxury with its rich materials and modern yet traditional design elements Upon entering the space guests are greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere created by the 10 WINTER 2022 2023
CLUBHOUSE REPORT 11 new limestone fireplace mantel which serves as the focal point of the room The fireplace is surrounded by rich wood wall paneling adding to the lounge s elegant feel To either side of the fireplace guests can admire the stunning wine displays showcasing the Club s finest selections The circular motifs found in the plush carpet along with the modern glass wall sconces bring a contemporary touch to the traditional space Comfortable and inviting the lounge features a mix of rich fabrics and leather upholstery inviting guests to sink into the plush seating and stay for a while The contemporary styling of the furniture fixtures and artwork adds a touch of modern elegance to the space making it the perfect place for members to relax and socialize The Glenmore Lounge offers the perfect blend of traditional and contemporary design elements creating a space that is both stylish and comfortable Adjacent to the Glenmore Lounge is the Glenmore Dining Room offering a sophisticated and elegant dining experience The circular shape of the room adds to its unique and inviting atmosphere White clothed dining tables are set with fine china and crystal creating a formal yet welcoming ambiance The stunning crystal chandelier at the center of the room serves as the focal point casting a warm and inviting glow throughout the space The large wood paneled wall serves as a backdrop for the historical artwork of the Club showcasing its rich heritage and traditions A glass trophy case is a nod to the Club s achievements and successes separating the dining room from the lounge while still allowing guests to admire the stunning displays Surrounded by large windows the dining room is bathed in natural light complemented by the luxurious drapery that frames the views The circular motifs found in the warm carpet and glass wall sconces repeat the theme found in the lounge creating a cohesive and elegant design throughout the space The Glenmore Dining Room is the perfect setting for formal events and intimate gatherings offering a luxurious and sophisticated dining experience During Construction October 16th December 31st The Terrace Lounge will be blocked off from our other adjacent dining rooms to allow the General Contractor to begin work on the mechanical and electrical components of the new bar area Dining room furniture from this space will be utilized in Caf 1885 to transform this space into a casual dining room that will now be open in the evening Existing lounge furniture will be moved out of Caf 1885 to make space for dining tables and chairs This furniture will be moved to the hallway as well as the banquet end of the building to be utilized throughout this phase of the project Efforts will be made by Melcher s Construction to mitigate dust and disruption in ancillary areas by tarping off doors and HVAC ducts Hoarding walls will be present where required WINTER 2023 2024
CLUBHOUSE REPORT The winter hours of operation for the casual dining rooms will be open Tuesday to Sunday 11 00 a m to 9 00 p m while the Glenmore dining room will be open Wednesday to Sunday 11 00 a m to 9 00 p m Caf 1885 will now be an additional casual dining space for the Club in place of the Terrace Lounge and will be open Tuesday to Sunday 6 30 a m to 9 00 p m During Construction January 1st March 31st During the first two weeks of January our General Contractor will endeavour to finish the hallway area between the Main Foyer and the Caf 1885 entrance This will allow usage of this crucial corridor when the Club reopens on January 17th for STAFF ONLY As such access to banquets and events will be through the main foyer under the porte cochere while access to Caf 1885 the only a la carte dining area available will be through the entrance beside the Pro Shop Members and Guests will NOT be able to use the corridor between the Main Foyer and Caf 1885 The Glenmore dining room and lounge Grill Room and Terrace Lounge will be closed and blocked off from the rest of the facility The only dining area that will be available will be Caf 1885 which will have been turned into a casual restaurant space on October 16th The Club will not be utilizing the banquet end of the building for dining during this project The Glenmore Kitchen will serve this restaurant area Banquet and Catering Events Throughout each stage of this construction project our banquet end operation should not be disrupted There may be special occasions such as the Club s monthly Friday Night Buffet Sunday Brunch or Valentine s Day that may see the a la carte operation use this space to accommodate a high demand for reservations but it would not be a regular occurrence Reception and Front Foyer Entrance January 3 April 1 Monday 8 30 a m to 3 00 p m Tuesday to Friday 8 30 a m to 5 00 p m Reception will remain in the front foyer in its current location Accessing Different Amenities at the Club During Construction Access to fitness will remain available through the side door located near the front foyer as well as the Caf 1885 hallway doors outside the Pro Shop Access to the indoor golf facility will be through the Caf 1885 hallway doors outside the Pro Shop or through the Pro Shop Access to the Pro Shop will remain through the Pro Shop entrance doors to the right of the Caf 1885 foyer or through the Caf 1885 entrance and hallway Food and Beverage Operations The courtesy hot beverage station will remain located in Caf 1885 and be available from 6 30 a m to 11 30 a m for members and guests to enjoy a hot coffee or tea Access to a la carte dining will be through the Caf 1885 entrance beside the Pro Shop Access to banquets and events will be through the Main Foyer under the porte cochere Please note that members and guests will not be able to use the corridor between the main foyer and Caf 1885 throughout this project However staff will be able to utilize this hallway to access the kitchen and all emergency life assist devices Our Food and Beverage Team will utilize Caf 1885 as our only dining space throughout January February and March This space will also contain a temporary setup for bar services to this area The lounge furniture that is currently located in the center of the carpeted area will be removed and replaced with the dining room furniture currently in the Terrace Lounge The Host Stand for reservations will be located just inside the door to Caf 1885 This is where reservations can be placed and where members and guests can check in for their dining arrangements Food preparation and service will come out of the Glenmore Kitchen In closing our team of hospitality professionals looks forward to unveiling these new spaces that will surely invigorate the dining and social scene at London Hunt and Country Club 12 WINTER 2023 2024
GOLF REPORT From left to right Arnold Palmer Jimmy Demaret and Ben Arda at the London Hunt and Country Club 1968 11 WINTER 2023 2024
GOLF REPORT It s A Wonderful World of Golf Chris Lawson Director of Golf clawson londonhuntclub com instagram com londonhuntclub_proshop A couple of weeks ago as we found ourselves in the Clubhouse basement retrieving Christmas decorations to prepare for the upcoming holiday season we discovered several interesting and historical pieces from the Club s past Among these items included pictures books and articles relating to the Club s golf history Seeing these pieces got me thinking about the upcoming renovations and the Club s plans to add more areas to display and feature the rich history of the Club and its membership Something that has always been front of mind about the London Hunt for me is the abundance of traditions and deep history the Club holds We should preserve and honour that past celebrate the present day and embrace what the future holds for the Club and tomorrow s generation One of the historic items discovered in the archives was a program from the 1969 Tour of Shell s Wonderful World of Golf This international tournament that ran from 1962 to 2003 was one of golf s first made for television events and turned out to be widely successful This historic program featured a full description of the six preliminary rounds that were held around the world Host venues for these rounds included play in Puerto Rico Singapore Jamaica Manila Hawaii and Nairobi Kenya Each game featured three touring pros with the winner advancing to one of two semifinal matches Although this semifinal match was actually played and taped in the summer of 1968 this series aired on TV during the winter months of 1969 That s where the London Hunt and Country Club comes into play The semifinal match was held here at the Club and saw the likes of Roberto De Vicenzo Dan Sikes and Ben Arda as the three participating touring pros Ironically one of the television commentators for the event was none other than Arnold Palmer I use the term ironically because Palmer was also a participant of the tournament playing in the second 1968 semifinal event held in Palm Beach Florida at PGA National Although Palmer did not advance to the final the city of London and the Club were still abuzz to have Mr Palmer here at the Club This would not be his last visit to the Club but more on that another time Ben Arda of the Philippines would go on to win the semifinal match and advance to the final match just outside of Chicago at Medinah Country Club Following the relocation of the Club from the University grounds in 1959 1960 hosting this event helped put the new London Hunt and Country Club on the golf world map as this was one of the first big championships contested on the new grounds In recent years the video of this tournament was digitally restored and an online link is available for your viewing pleasure Since hosting Shell s Wonderful World of Golf the Club has gone on to host many significant golf events over the years which have all contributed to the abundant history of the Club The hundreds of treasured pieces of memorabilia pictures articles and items the Club has collected over time all tell the story of the London Hunt and Country Club As the Club begins renovations within the Glenmore Grill Room and bar areas the new space will lend itself to further display and tell the story of those members who came before and how the Club came to be We look forward to sharing more of these stories and items with you On behalf of all those within the Golf Shop team we wish you and yours the very best for the holiday season 14 WINTER 2023 2024
GROUNDS REPORT Winter Grounds Report Jayson Griffiths Director of Agronomy and Grounds jgriffiths londonhuntclub com twitter com GriffithsJayson As I write this winter newsletter I am reminded of the Holiday Season a season to rest and reflect on the past year to enjoy the promise of today and spring hope for the future These past 2 seasons the Member focused Golf Course Infrastructure Refurbishment and Enhancement Project began with a unified vision soon replaced with the hustle and bustle of contractors bulldozers excavators sod trucks tractors and seemingly endless amounts of irrigation piping and building materials A recent quote which caught my eye states Victory or defeat is not determined at the moment of crisis but rather in the long and unspectacular period of preparation In this light we are thankful to the Board of Directors the multitude of Committees Club leadership and all Membership for your guidance oversight patience support and channeling of the combined vision Many challenges foreseen and unforeseen presented along the way ultimately overcome through the collaboration and wisdom of many This past spring the promise of an ambitious 2nd half of the project was soon thwarted unbeknownst to many with the flooding of the Thames River The already saturated 10th hole soon reverted to an expanded pond feature delaying the planned completion of this hole prior to June Pivoting our capable contractors KCM turned their attention to the remaining holes of 9 1 2 3 4 18 17 16 and 15 Work began in earnest removing and restoring the rock wall encompassing the 2nd green complex while carefully sculpting the landform linking the 4th green to this marvelous new feature The vistas presented from the rear of the 1st green and looking back from the 5th tee enhance the scale of original intent from 1959 This area of interaction will only further be enhanced with the completion of the pond work commencing during December of 2023 By all accounts the pond features will shine with expanded rockery fronting the 4th green similar to the 2nd green while grassing lines of mown Kentucky blue grass fine fescues and drainage swales will enhance the aquatic ecosystems while improving the architectural intent of the 3rd and 4th holes Throughout the implementation of the project there are 4 Grounds Team Members who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make each day on course a success Our Equipment Manager Taylor Cairns kept the equipment fleet running and in top form to produce an exceptional quality of cut Assistant Superintendent Deb Dale and 2nd Assistants Matt Deans and Kyle Johnston deserve credit as they battled a constant myriad of weather and 15 WINTER 2023 2024
GROUNDS REPORT water related challenges The historical drought of 2023 was the single greatest threat to the success of the project A relentless stretch of dry weather throughout May extended into mid June before the relief of significant rainfall A combined total of 25mm fell on the property over this 7 week period During this time a triage of inputs was developed to focus life giving water to golf greens only as no functional irrigation had yet to be installed across holes 2 3 4 17 16 15 The use of hoses water tankers and judicious inputs by these Assistants allowed the putting surfaces to survive while the fairway areas were left to defend themselves through the mechanism of selfinduced dormancy The investment in irrigation piping is foundational to plant health especially when the effects of severe drought combined with traffic cannot be overcome through dormancy alone These 4 individuals not only continued to invest themselves in the success of the golf course and Master Plan project but the success and well being of our thirty seasonal employees who come together daily to prepare an incredible property As the Master Plan nears completion the winter is a time to reflect adjust plan and prepare for an extraordinary 2024 By all measures this fall s on course extended work schedule met incredibly tight timelines under non ideal weather conditions Preparing a golf course for winter s rest requires many days of input along with a constant vigil on the forecast This said the proverbial winter weather question always arises this time of year Will El Nino replace La Nina Does the heavy acorn abundance mean a prolonged winter Weather prognosticators and the Farmer s Almanac become quick references The answers to these questions are not pre determined but the intensive measures we at Grounds have implemented again this fall to strengthen the plants to help mitigate any potential turf loss have begun In the spirit of Christmas we at Grounds are thankful for your support and encouraged by your kind words smiles and interactions A fresh blanket of powdered snow will soon arrive where the winter wonderland presents itself for Nature s long winters rest On behalf of Grounds we wish you much health happiness and joy this Holiday Season 16 WINTER 2023 2024
TENNIS REPORT A Triumph in Racquet Sports CELEBRATING A SEASON OF SUCCESS Adam Baranowski Director of Racquet Sports abaranowski londonhuntclub com https www instagram com londonhuntclub_tennis In the vibrant realm of racquet sports our Club has recently wrapped up a season that will undoubtedly go down in the archives of our history as one for the books The courts buzzed with energy as the tennis section recorded its fourth busiest season in terms of court occupancy and concurrently the pickleball section marked its busiest season to date This extraordinary achievement is a testament to a year of positive growth characterized by numerous enhancements aimed at enriching the overall experience for our esteemed members Pickleball Perfection A Year of Expansion and Connection This year the spotlight gleamed brightly on our pickleball section witnessing a series of additions and improvements that breathed new life into the sport We introduced innovative programs tailored for adults and juniors opening doors for players of all ages to immerse themselves in the exhilarating world of pickleball Leagues catering to both intermediate and advanced levels flourished with increased participation fostering a real sense of friendly competition and camaraderie among our members Social events the lifeblood of any vibrant community were amplified ensuring that the pickleball enthusiasts remained connected and engaged throughout the season At the forefront of this success story stands Carolyn Stevens Pickleball Progfessional who seamlessly navigated her second year as the guiding force behind our pickleball program Her passion for the sport coupled with an unwavering enthusiasm for improvement has propelled the program to new heights The introduction of a pickleball machine for lessons and individual use along with the addition of new furniture and umbrellas in the playing area underscores our unwavering commitment to providing top notch facilities and equipment for our cherished members Tennis Triumphs Unprecedented Demand and Dedication Shifting our focus to the tennis courts this season etched its place in history as the fourth busiest in the Club s history in terms of court occupancy The doubles leagues the heartbeat of our tennis community experienced 17 WINTER 2023 2024
TENNIS REPORT an unprecedented surge in demand On the men s side a consistent turnout of over 40 players each week bore witness to the enduring popularity of the sport Notably Tuesday nights and Thursday mornings emerged as the zenith for women s doubles leagues with an impressive gathering of over 80 players throughout the season Behind these triumphs stands our dedicated tennis staff whose professionalism and unwavering dedication played a pivotal role in the season s success Ava Skuse stepping up as an Associate Professional showcased outstanding leadership The addition of Matt Mueller as Assistant Professional left an indelible mark with his adept teaching skills extending to both adults and children overseeing various programs throughout the season Although faced with a setback due to a surgery towards the end of the season we remain optimistic about Matt s swift recovery and eagerly anticipate his return next year Gastronomic Delights and Technological Triumphs Behind the Scenes Success Beyond the courts our hospitality soared to new heights this season thanks to the massive effort of our Hospitality Supervisor and League Coordinator Krista Meriam In her second year in this pivotal role Krista played a vital part in elevating the overall experience for our members Our booking software SALIX proved to be a technological asset seamlessly integrated into our daily operations Its user friendly interface and myriad of useful functions became a staple for our members streamlining the booking process and enhancing overall efficiency Aesthetic Elegance Elevating the Club s Appeal In addition to on court accomplishments the Club underwent a visual transformation with aesthetic enhancements All ten courts including the light posts and fences received a fresh coat of paint This revitalized look not only adds to the visual appeal but also underscores our steadfast commitment to maintaining top quality facilities The Racquet Chalet patio received a cozy upgrade with the introduction of a gas fireplace While it saw some use this year we anticipate its increased utilization in the coming seasons providing a warm and inviting space for post match gatherings Looking Forward Gratitude and Anticipation As we reflect on this outstanding season we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our members staff and leadership for their unwavering support The record breaking achievements and improvements made this year set the stage for an even brighter future for racquet sports at our Club With eagerness we anticipate another successful season ahead filled with camaraderie competition and passion for the game The echoes of this triumphant season will undoubtedly resonate through the courts serving as inspiration for the exciting chapters yet to unfold in the vibrant world of racquet sports at our Club WINTER 2023 2024 18
FITNESS REPORT Fitness and Health Myth Busters Tracey Machesney Fitness Manager tmachesney londonhuntclub com https www facebook com LondonHuntClubFitnessCentre Working in the fitness and wellness industry for many years all of us Personal Trainer s in the Fitness Center have heard a wide range of what we will call Urban Myths We often share and reminisce with each other about these myths and wonder where they originate what research has been conducted and who the subjects are that the studies have been conducted on Often enough these myths have been told and retold with differing details or studied created many years ago on only a specific demographic of subjects or have little to no research behind them If you missed the Myth Busters Hunt Talk at the end of November here are a few of the urban myths personal trainers Alicia Clow Ennis Steve McRae Jason Kaszycki and I were happy to debunk Myth 1 BMI Body Mass Index What is it BMI is a calculation to determine your bodyweight health The calculation is your weight in kilograms divided by your height in meters squared History and what it is used for The first thing to know about the BMI is that it was created in the 1830 s by a Belgian mathematician not a doctor or health practitioner It was created in attempt to find the average man It was then adapted in the 1970 s to quickly screen for obesity where it then became known as BMI Body Mass Index Limitations Muscle mass is a major limitation of BMI as muscle and fat weigh the same per pound obviously but they differ in density This means if you look at five pounds of muscle and five pounds of fat side by side the fat takes up more volume or space than the muscle It does not differentiate between fat and lean mass like bone and muscle It also does not consider age ethnicity sex or stages of development which can affect body composition and health risks Additionally it does not reflect the location or amount of body fat which can also impact health Studies show more weight around your waist is associated with increased visceral fat and increased health risks As such BMI is not a good individual indicator of body weight health and there are other alternative techniques such as waist to hip ratio and body fat percentage 19 Above Will Ferrell as Ron Burgundy in 2004 s Anchorman Will Ferrell 6 3 81kg 179lbs BMI 22 4 normal Above Mr Olympia Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1974 Arnold Schwarzenegger 6 3 107kg 235lbs BMI 29 5 overweight WINTER 2023 2024
FITNESS REPORT Myth 2 Knees Over Toes History This myth began when a 1959 study by Dr Klein looked at 128 weightlifters who competed in the 1959 Pan American Games and compared them to 386 subjects with no competitive lifting experience In a paper he published in 1961 he concluded that deep squats where the knees pass over the toes had a debilitative effect on the ligamental structures of the knee and recommended that trainees squat to parallel and no further A year later in 1962 this study was picked up by Sports Illustrated and the rest is history More current research shows however that knees over toes will benefit healthy everyday movement and athletic performance It is true when your knees travel forward over your toes there is an increased rotational force which is known as torque and shearing force placed on your knees However in healthy people these forces are greatly below your body s capabilities As shown in the image below if you restrict your knees from traveling over top of your toes the torque will shift from your knees into your hips and lower back Image A has only 28 increase in torque within your knees whereas image B has 1043 increased torque in your lower back lumbar and hips Therefore yes limiting knee bend will reduce sheer force on the knees but it will increase force elsewhere possibly in areas that we do not want that force The ideal is to have strong joints throughout their full range of motion Myth 3 Bulking Up with Muscle Mass Both men and women lose muscle mass with age After 30 years of age muscle loss begins For both men and women muscle mass decreases around 1 year This can be more of a concern for women due to potentially having less to begin with Also for women this accelerates during the menopausal transition Hormonal Differences Testosterone the primary male hormone leads to Bone formation larger bones protein synthesis the biological muscle building process larger muscles Estrogen the primary female hormone leads to fat deposition takes fatty acids from the blood and puts them into fat tissue Estrogen increases this process It also leads to inhibition of anabolic stimuli which means it s harder for women to make muscle For women in addition to our regular 1 of muscle loss per year menopause causes increased muscle loss During late perimenopause we can lose up to 30 of muscle mass in early post menopause 27 and late post menopause which is up to 10 years after we can lose up to 32 A women s hormonal changes will impact the strength of a muscle contraction and our muscles become less responsive to protein which is why women require more as we age Needless to say bulking up especially for women can be a full time job Don t be afraid of muscle Strong as they say is the new sexy It s also sensible because as you get older and start to lose precious lean muscle tissue you will be grateful for the muscle you have kept in reserve Above Tia Toomey Australian weightlifter who trains approximately 5 hours a day There are many more urban myths in fitness and wellness myths that have been debunked by science and studies If you have a myth you re interested in learning more up to date information about join us in the Fitness Center and ask one of our professionals If we do not know the answer we would be happy to research it for you 20 WINTER 2023 2024
TRAP SKEET REPORT Trap and Skeet Report Blair Alton Chair of the Trap and Skeet Committee PULL and the clays are flying again for a new season of trap and skeet enjoyment and competition We have been fortunate to have nice weather on our first outings It is great to see new shooters coming out to try this amazing sport There was a solid turnout for the final Sue Thompson Shoot and we acknowledge the Belton family for sponsoring this event since its inception in 1985 Susan Weldon is excited to become the new sponsor next season and we look forward to a new legacy of competition with new and seasoned trap shooters I would like to recognize Mark Farrow for his dedication and efforts as the Committee Chair and his support to the committee again this year A special thank you to retiring committee members Brock Nicolucci and Chris Hawlik for their support and we welcome Robert Vezina and Board Rep Sandra Van Ymeren to the team A warm welcome to our two new Trap and Skeet Associate members Alec McCaig and John Emin We encourage all skill levels to come out every Wednesday and Saturday as we have hosted over a dozen new shooters over the first few weeks and many are excited to return Trap and skeet like all sports can be learned and individuals can enjoy safe and friendly competition at their own pace Look for updates in the weekly eNews and join us at the Chalet for food beverages social time and shooting Please reach out if you have any questions about the sport 21 WINTER 2023 2024
EXPERIENCE THE EXCEPTIONAL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Men s Christmas Party December 6 2023 Women s Christmas Party December 7 2023 Office Christmas Lunch December 15 2023 Children s Christmas Party December 17 2023 Hunt Club Christmas December 23 2023 New Year s Eve Feature Menu December 31 2023 22 CONTACT US Ginny Leyten Events Coordinator gleyten londonhuntclub com 519 471 2523 ext 240 Eric Frenzel Banquet Manager efrenzel londonhuntclub com 519 471 2523 ext 229 WINTER 2023 2024
LONDON HUNT AND COUNTRY CLUB JUST4JUNIORS SIBERIA Siberian tigers are found in eastern Siberia Siberia mostly consists of Russia s large Birch forests and frozen mountains It is termed a tundra yet trees cover 80 and the other percentage is mostly mountain ranges and valleys Year round Siberia is frozen over in snow except for the very short and late summers Despite the harsh climate Siberian tigers are living in the worlds most complete ecosystem Every animal and plant that belongs is there 23 MEET THE SIBERIAN TIGER Siberian or Amur tigers may be the world s largest cats Tigers are the largest of all wild cats and are renowned for their power and strength There were once nine tiger subspecies but three became extinct during the 20th century Over the last hundred years hunting and forest destruction have reduced overall tiger populations dramatically Tigers live alone and aggressively scent mark large territories to keep their rivals away They are powerful hunters that travel many miles to find prey such as elk and wild boar on nocturnal hunts Despite their fearsome reputation most tigers avoid humans Females give birth to litters of two to six cubs which they raise with little or no help from the male Cubs cannot hunt until they are 18 months old and remain with their mothers for two to three years when they disperse to find their own territory WINTER 2023 2024
SPOT IT Siberian tigers live primarily in eastern Russia s birch forests though some exist in China and North Korea Though their northern climate is far harsher than those of other tigers these animals have some advantages Northern forests offer the lowest human density of any tiger habitat and the most complete ecosystem The vast woodlands also allow tigers far more room to roam as Russia s timber industry is currently less extensive than that of many other countries Can you spot one in the forest below FUN FACTS COMMON NAME Siberian Tiger SCIENTIFIC NAME Panthera tigris altaica TYPE Mammals DIET Carnivore SIZE 10 75 feet WEIGHT 660 pounds do you recognize these famous tigers A B C D A Tony the Tiger B Tigress C Shere Khan D Richard Parker Learn more To learn more about the Siberian Tiger and how you can protect them visit https www worldwildlife org 24 WINTER 2023 2024
CLUB EVENTS December January and February HUNT CLUB CHRISTMAS MARKET I December 1 Pre order cookies loaf cakes and hot meals ready for family gatherings MEN S CHRISTMAS PARTY I December 6 An evening of camaraderie to celebrate the season WOMEN S CHRISTMAS PARTY I December 7 It s girls night out and the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season OFFICE CHRISTMAS LUNCH I December 15 Exceptional offerings set the stage for a casual holiday get together NEW YEAR S DAY I January 1 Club closed for New Year s Day DINING AT THE CLUB I January 17 The food and beverage department reopens PA DAY CAMP I January 19 A day of crafts seasonal activities fitness class cooking class and more ROBBIE BURNS DAY I January 25 A feature menu celebrating the life and poetry of the Robert Burns Scottish poet and lyricist CHILDREN S CHRISTMAS PARTY I December 17 Celebrate with Santa on Sunday December 17 HUNT CLUB CHRISTMAS I December 23 A festive evening to celebrate with culinary creations and entertainment VALENTINE S DAY FEATURE I February 14 Contact the Club to reserve for a table for you and your Valentine to enjoy a feature menu FAMILY DAY I February 19 Club closed for Family Day NEW YEAR S EVE DINNER I December 31 Enjoy a New Year s Eve feature menu 25 WINTER 2023 2024
SOUP S ON ALL SEASON LONG