Club Life Magazine - Winter 2024/2025 : simplebooklet.com

ALSO IN THIS ISSUEPresident’s Message....................................03COO’s Report..............................................05Rosemary Paloma Sour...............................10Swing, Body, Mind - Reach Your Goal.....11Winter Grounds Report................................13Misconceptions, Myths, & Misleading Promises..................................................17Trap and Skeet Report................................19Faces in the Club....................................20Event Calendar...........................................21Just 4 Juniors................................................22On the cover: a painting of the old Clubhouse on Windermere illustrating the old ice rink that was resurrected each winter. This original painting currently hangs in the hallway outside the Glenmore Lounge.WINTER 2024/2025CONTENTS2 WINTER 2024/2025 7MILK & COOKIESORWINE & CHEESE 15WHAT’S INSIDETENNIS IN TOKYO 960 SECONDS WITH...Board of DirectorsBOARD OF DIRECTORS Dieter BruckschwaigerPresidentMarcia RobertsFirst Vice PresidentJeff PetrieSecond Vice PresidentDoug DavisPast PresidentJohn SteinDirectorSandra Van YmerenDirectorTwee BrownDirectorJohn SprietDirectorBrad SmithDirectorSteve GoodineDirectorDon BartlettDirectorMANAGEMENT TEAMJon Nusink, CCM CCEChief Operating OfficerChris Lawson, PGA of CanadaDirector of GolfJayson GriffithsDirector of Agronomy and GroundsAdam BaranowskiDirector of Racquet SportsKen Cannon, CPA, CADirector of Finance andAdministrationMichael Hearse, CCMDirector of Clubhouse OperationsTracey MachesneyFitness ManagerMichael StarkExecutive Chef

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status as one of Canada’s most prestigious private clubs.As a service-focused organization, a significant portion of our annual operating costs consist of salaries and wages. Recruiting and retaining top talent is essential to ensuring our members receive the exceptional service and experiences they expect and deserve. At the same time, the Club’s facilities require ongoing maintenance, replacement and improvement. As owners of the Club, we collectively invest to preserve the Club’s appeal to our existing members and attract new families to apply for membership, thus securing the Club’s future prosperity.The Board is committed to ensuring our fee structure supports both the exceptional experiences and opportunities the Club offers, as well as the ability to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Club.A More Transparent Approach to Member Dues Historically, member dues have been sufficient to generate an annual surplus, which, when supplemented by entrance fees, has been used to finance capital requirements such as replacing essential equipment (lawn mowers, furniture, etc.), and accumulate reserves for larger enhancements (like restaurant renovations or golf course updates). When cash reserves alone could not fund significant projects (the Clubhouse and golf course renovation), external debt financing was required. 3 WINTER 2024/2025PRESIDENT’S REPORTWelcome to the Christmas edition of our Club Life Magazine. I am happy to report members have enjoyed uninterrupted access to the Club facilities since the restaurant renovations were completed in April 2024.Member utilization continues to run at high levels. This year, 31,260 rounds of golf were played, down from 36,051 in 2020 but higher than the five year average before Covid of 25,329. We are keeping a close eye on tee time availability and pace of play.For those who wish to keep their swing tuned in the off-season, we are again offering free use of the hitting bays which began on November 29th. Members may also reserve the golf simulators for $48 per hour. Interestingly, our home LHCC course will be one of the courses available this year. The hitting bays and simulators must be booked online using the reservation app.It is essential to spend some extra time describing our deliberations over budget and dues and acknowledge our Finance Committee and Board member John Stein, who worked tirelessly on these efforts.BudgetI am pleased to share that the 2025 budget was approved by the Board of Directors this November. For a Resident Shareholder couple, their total annual cost will increase by $500 in 2025, representing just under a 5% adjustment. The Club continues to prioritize delivering a best-in-class member experience while maintaining its Board of DirectorsPRESIDENT’S MESSAGEDieter Bruckschwaigerdieterb@rogers.com

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SPRING 20204 WINTER 2024/2025PRESIDENT’S REPORTThe Long-Range Planning (LRP) Fee, introduced in 2013, was implemented to partially fund the debt service cost for the Clubhouse renovation and was subsequently increased to help service the golf course reconstruction loan. This fee essentially served a dual purpose by funding an operating expense (interest) and a capital amount (principal repayment).Since the Club’s inception, it has always been understood that, ultimately, the responsibility to fund the daily operations and short and long-term maintenance of the Club facilities falls to the members. During the current year budget process, management and the Board determined that the member’s annual dues should be structured in such a way that the amount of each component, Operating and Capital, is clear. Beginning in 2025, member dues will be restructured and billed as distinct components: Operating Dues and Capital Dues. Importantly, for 2025 the total of these two amounts is equal to the total amount that would have been in place absent the restructure. The LRP will therefore be discontinued as we have known it for the past 11 years.During the annual budgeting process, Operating Dues will be set at a level that will result in a break even by covering the daily costs of operating the Club, such as staff wages, utilities, and other operational needs.Capital Dues will be determined annually in order to finance routine capital needs, current debt repayment obligations and, after considering existing cash reserves and entrance fees, an additional amount to allow cash reserves to accumulate to support the Club’s long-term capital requirements as identified in its Long-term Capital Plan.This approach will provide members with a clear appreciation of how their annual dues will be used to finance the Club. Of equal importance, this process will aid management and the Board to exercise prudent financial management of the Club and support our standing as one of Canada’s finest private clubs. The 2025 fee schedule can be found online at Members Home > ResourcesThank you for your continued support and investment in the future of our Club. Together, we will ensure its success for generations to come.Moving along to other activities, the tennis and pickleball facilities were again very popular, and league play was often oversubscribed. In fact, the tennis courts saw its third busiest year in history, coming in at 2125 games over the annual 10 year average. The racquets committee, with guidance from our Director of Racquet Sports Adam Baranowski, devised creative solutions to ensure participation was open to everyone. Pickleball proved to be a great past time and while play cooled down a bit from last year, we saw our busiest month yet in July with over 1100 games played.It always feels like fall has arrived when at the Club in late November, you can hear the pop pop of guns at the Trap and Skeet Chalet. The season kicked off on November 20th with new shooters days the next two Saturdays. Good luck to all the new and well seasoned shooters this season.The Nominatiing Committee, led by Past President Doug Davis, is completing their task of filling upcoming vacancies on the Board and Committees. Thank you to everyone who volunteered and expressed interest in serving. The goal is to fill open spots in a manner that reflects the demographics of our membership.By most measures, the renovations of the new restaurant have been a great success. I know the staff is looking forward to a busy holiday season. 2025 will be our first fully uninterrupted year since completing the restaurant renovations and putting COVID behind us. The staff and management are eager to show us our facilities working at full capacity. The Club has a capital project planned for early 2025. Management is obtaining quotes for the parking lot expansion, which will increase the total number of parking spots by 120. We intend to complete the project by mid spring and are working to limit unavoidable disruption as best we can while the work takes place. More information will follow as details emerge.The Board has been aware of the heavy use of the fitness facilities for many years now. We are making it a high priority to address the need for more space and equipment. Your comments in the surveys and directly to staff and management continue to assist us in our analysis.We now have over 60 families on the Veranda and waitlist, the highest number in many decades. This reinforces that prospective members perceive the Hunt Club’s outstanding value and further supports our approach to maintaining our facilities now and in the future. Twelve families will move from Veranda to full membership in January 2025.The Board, and Nancy and I, I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

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WINTER 2024/2025I find it astonishing that December is here again already. Didn’t we just celebrate the holidays a few months ago? The phrase “time flies” has never felt more accurate—and it only seems to be accelerating. I once read about the phenomenon of the “reminiscence bump,” which explains how time appears to speed up as we age. Psychologists attribute this to the abundance of novelty and fresh experiences in our early years, which makes those memories more vivid. Remember how summers seemed to last forever as a child? Now, they seem to vanish in an instant. Another perspective is that, at age 10, one year is 10% of your life, but by your late 50s, it’s barely 2%.This past year felt like it flew by, but what a year it was! For all intents and purposes, we’ve enjoyed another exceptional year at the Club. We celebrated the completion of our restaurant renovation, which saw record engagement, drawing the highest number of diners in the past five years. The golf course enjoyed a full, uninterrupted season. Our tennis courts and fitness center had one of their busiest years in history, and trap and skeet and pickleball continued to build on their growing popularity.Adding to these accomplishments, we moved up in ScoreGolf Magazine’s biannual rankings, climbing from #25 to #16 among all clubs in Canada. This recognition further solidifies our standing as one of the nation’s premier clubs, and we eagerly anticipate even more accolades as the news spreads about our beautifully renovated golf course. Let’s not forget our crowning achievement last year—being named the Large Club of the Year by the Club Managers’ Association of Canada in 2023. These milestones are a testament to the members and staff who breathe life into LHCC every day. I am truly grateful to call this special place home.As the dust settles after the festive season, our staff will have their moment to celebrate at our annual New Year’s party in January. This cherished tradition includes the presentation of several well-deserved awards, as well as recognition for years of service through our quinquennial awards. This year, the following staff will receive special years of service pins. Our 5 year awards will go to Aaron Stol from Food and Beverage, Jessica Johnston from Culinary, Heather Boland from Admin, Leo Dobbin from House, and Debbie Hyde, Krystal Campbell, and David March from Grounds. Tsehay Gebru from House will also be honoured for 20 years of service. Congratulations to all of our employees and thank you for your years of service in making our Club one of the best.Since the last edition of Clublife, we have welcomed the following new members:Alex McCabe is a Legacy Member whose parents, grandparents, and aunt and uncle are members. She enjoyed membership until work opportunities took her to Toronto at age 25. She has now returned to London and works as benefits associate at Arthur J. Gallagher. She was proposed by Marlene McGrath and seconded by Sharon Doubt.Ally and Korey Hess join with their young twin daughters. Ally is the daughter of Marjie and Jeff Macoun and is a Group Benefits Account Executive at Canada Life and Korey is a Regional Sales Manager with Axis Communications. They were proposed by Jeff Macoun and seconded by Wayne Dunn.Cassandra Lin and Daniel Pepe are both doctors, and Cassandra is the daughter of Charles and CarlaLin. Cassandra is a Family Physician and General Practitioner-Dermatologist and Daniel is a Family Winter ReportJon Nusink, General Manager/Chief Operating Officerjnusink@londonhuntclub.com5COO REPORT

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6 WINTER 2024/2025COO REPORTPhysician and Surgical Assistant for Orthopedics. They were proposed by Geoff Davies and seconded by Paul Romanson.Clare and Andrew Theriault are teachers in London. They join with their young daughter and were proposed by Clare’s father Michael McDonald and seconded by Amit Shah.Randi-Jo Francis is an Optometrist who was proposed by Cam Law and seconded by Kirk Hollohan.Colin and Aryn Abbot are both business owners in the real estate industry, Colin as a Real Estate Broker and Aryn as a Residential Appraiser. Aryn is the founder and owner of Riverbend Appraisals and Colin of Westwood Realty Team. They were proposed by Cam Law and seconded by Kirk Hollohan.Taylor and Amanda Gray join with their two young children. Amanda is a teacher, and Taylor is a Program Manager with NFA Health Inc. They were proposed by Bill Smyrnios and seconded by John Sliskovic.Jonathan and Elizabeth Batch were former Tennis Associates who join with their teenage daughters. Jonathan is a Senior Investment Advisor and Portfolio Manager with BMO Private Wealth and Elizabeth is an administrator who has worked with various foundations, most recently with Good Foundations Inc. They were proposed by Ted Vasarhelyi and seconded by James Bennett.Shane Harrison and Julie Sparkes are also former Tennis Associates who have made the move to full membership. Shane is the Manager of the Engineering Department at Arva Industries in St. Thomas who is also actively involved in real estate as an investor and agent, and Julie is Senior Project Engineer at General Dynamics Land Systems in London. They were proposed by Bill Smyrnios and seconded by Eric Vardon.Sarah White rejoins the Club, returning to London after living in Toronto.Aashish and Neena Goela are a physician specializing in radiology and a dental hygienist who were proposed by Ken Patpatia and seconded by Amit Shah.Wayne Hodgins and Christine Gauthier recently retired and relocated to London from Toronto but have had vacation homes in Grand Bend for many years. Wayne has an engineering background with leading global corporations in the oil and gas pipeline industry while Christine had a successful career in the technology and IT services sector. They are proposed by Brian Semkowski and seconded by Penny Cumberland.Please help me in welcoming all of our new members to our family!On behalf of all the staff and their families, we wish you and yours a very happy holiday season and a healthy and prosperous New Year! Take some time to enjoy the season, reminiscing with friends and loved ones, making memories at the Club….this year will be gone before you know it!LONDON HUNT AND COUNTRY CLUBIN MEMORIAMLinda BeatonJuly 9, 1936 - November 1, 2024Katherine MillmanMarch 13, 1946 - November 1, 2024

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8 WINTER 2024/2025CLUBHOUSE REPORTWith the holiday season upon us and family traditions abound, I started thinking about traditions that every family, at least with younger children do, such as visiting Santa at the mall or writing him a letter. However, the biggest tradition is that night before Christmas excitement of leaving Santa milk and cookies. After working hard all year to get ready for Christmas Day, I think a little something more is deserved. So, without further ado, a look at wines from around the world for Santa. In Germany Santa Clause has a few different names; Der Weihnachtsmann, Heilige Nikolaus, or Christkind. The one that was most interesting was Heilige Nikolaus, who wields a staff and looks similar to a bishop. The interesting part is that he travels with Krampus, a scary gentleman who handles the naughty children.Bassermann Jordan Riesling Trocken 2020 is a dry, crisp, elegant Riesling with notes of freesia, lemon and apple. It pairs well with a spicy dish, as it tames the spice, but also with a smoked salmon, apples and pears with blue cheese, which Heilige Nikolaus and Krampus would be sure to enjoy.In France, he is known as Père Noël which literally translates to “Father Christmas.” The original version of Père Noël wore a robe, carried a wicker basket, and wanders with his donkey, Gui (translating to “mistletoe”). Children would leave out their shoes with food (carrots and other vegetables) for Gui, and Père Noël replaces the donkey food with presents.With all the lovely French wines available, Père Noel surely deserves a treat also. A glass of the Chateau Marjosse 2022 Grand Vin de Bordeaux is fresh and complex with notes of dark fruit, oak and vanilla. This pairs well with a nice duck confit dish, or tenderloin, maybe a little heavy for Père Noel, but he would appreciate the offerings.In Italy, the most modern version of Santa Claus is Babbo Natale (also translates to Father Christmas) who travels with his reindeer Freccia, Saltarello, and Donato to name a few. However, there is also a version dating back to the 700s, an Italian witch named La Befana who flies around the region on a broom giving treats to good children and coal to the bad. She did her work on Epiphany on January 6, which is the final day of the Christmas season that is designated as the day the three Wise Men made it to Mary and Joseph’s manger.Babbo Natale would be sure to enjoy a glass of the Luigi Righetti Amarone della Valpolicella Classico “Capitel de Roari”. This is a bold, fresh fruit wine with notes of dark and red fruit, leather, and coffee. Babbo Natale would enjoy this wine with a tenderloin, or a cheeseburger with an extra treat of blue cheese on top.In North America Santa goes by several names. For example, Kriss Kringle comes from the German Christkindl or “Christ child.” The original 1947 film Miracle on 34th Street uses this particular name for Santa. The Dutch Sinterklaas was transformed bit by bit into the American version of Santa Claus which is the name most people recognize today. Minister Clement Clarke Moore described Santa as a “right jolly old elf” in his 1822 poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (more commonly as ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas). Leaving milk and cookies for Santa Claus became a popular North American tradition during the Great Depression in the 1930’s.This year, forego the milk and cookies and leave a nice glass of Emmolo Sauvignon Blanc 2020 from Napa Valley. It is an aromatic wine with notes of citrus fruit, tree fruit and earthy notes of stone and honey. It would pair well with a plate of mussels, oysters or a pasta primavera for Santa to enjoy.Next time you join us at the Club for a dining experience, try the wines and see which one you think Santa would enjoy most! In any case whatever your family’s old or new traditions are, or what your affectionate name is for the Jolly Ole Elf, remember he is only part of the season. From the Food and Beverage Team, please enjoy your holiday season with friends and family.

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60 Seconds With...60 SECONDS WITH...WINTER 2024/20259Past Board Member and Olympic Skier Nancy GeeHOLIDAY TRADITIONSpending time with family, nice dinners, going for a hike, and usually there is a glass of prosecco in there somewhere.FIRST MEMORY SKIING When I was 3, getting in trouble from the Devil’s Glen General Manager because I would go straight down the steepest hill. Eventually he took my badge/privileges away. My parents had to put me in the nursery, I learned to turn very quickly.WORDS OF WISDOMIn skiing it’s not all about winning medals, it’s about the dedication and commitment to working hard to achieve your goals. Winston Churchill summed it up for me, “Success is not final. Failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.”LAST PLACE YOU TRAVELLEDLongboat Key, Florida — It’s been my happy place since I was a child.SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT THE OLYMPICSEach country has a quota of 4 athletes per discipline in the Olympics, whereas, in a World Cup race the quota is 10 athletes.BEST WAY TO SPEND AN EVENING FOLLOWING A DAY ON THE SLOPESIt starts with an après ski party with family and friends at the clubhouse and then a relaxing evening meal at the chalet.ACTRESS WHO WOULD PLAY YOU IN THE MOVIE ABOUT YOUR LIFEThat is a vey tough one to answer…probably Sandra Bulluck.FAVORITE BOOKThe Alchemist by Paulo Coelho - it’s all about pursuing your dreams and finding purpose.BIG CITY OR COUNTRYSIDECountryside, I love the outdoors.ACCESSORY YOU WON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUTDefinitely sunglasses.SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT THE CLUB DURING THE HOLIDAYSThe Club is like a second home or a refuge for many members including staff, the holiday season amplifies this.

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As someone who really pushes himself to be better each day (even at the risk of overthinking or causing some stress), I’m a big advocate for setting goals. So much so in fact, I write out my goals on a small whiteboard next to my computer monitor so I can constantly see them as a reminder each day. While some people don’t go to that extreme or need the constant visual reminder, having goals set is a good way to hold yourself accountable for the things you want to accomplish — whether that be in life or on the golf course. I was working with a member this past summer whose goal was to break 90 for the first time. While that might seem like a basic goal for a recreational golfer, it was something this member took very seriously. Unfortunately, as is life, when you receive a call from your doctor that your hip surgery can be moved up, you jump at the chance to do that. So, for the time being that particular member’s goal was put on hold as they underwent the surgical procedure. 11 WINTER 2024/2025Mind, Body, & Swing Therapy Reach Your GoalsChris Lawson, Director of Golf Operations clawson@londonhuntclub.comGOLF REPORT

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12 FALL 20242. Your BodyAfter enjoying all the holiday sweets and late-night snacking we all know comes with the holiday season, redirecting your focus to preparing your body physically will only benefit you towards reaching your golf goals. I suggest working with one of the Club’s Fitness Professionals who can assess your body, and then can provide you with a program to use during these colder months. This can help you eliminate or minimize any physical restrictions that impact your golf swing, along with building strength in key muscle areas. Our Golf Professionals can attend these sessions with the fitness trainer with you to have a full team approach and to ensure we know what you can or cannot do within the swing physically. 3. Mind Focus & GoalsDuring lessons we often ask our students questions about the mental game, and or goal setting. Typically, we ask questions to our students such as “What percentage of the game is mental vs. physical?”. Many of them often respond by saying it’s around 90% mental. We then ask a follow up question about how much time they spend practicing the mental game, with the answer usually being zero.By concentrating on your goals, your mindset changes. You now have a goal line to work towards. This will allow you to become mentally tougher. This mindset can be the difference between staying stagnant and stale as a player, versus achieving your golf goals! For that reason, we recommend finding a good book on the mental game or use us to discuss your goals and help you work towards them. Chris mentioned earlier he is working with a member who has a goal to break 90. Starting with a basic routine and building from there is a great way to stay focused and work towards achieving your final goal. Our team is here to help you, and we welcome you to the Indoor Golf Den this offseason. We hope to see as many of you downstairs working towards your goals – Andrew Russ & Craig Hare On behalf of our entire Golf Operations team, from our starters, back shop, Pro Shop attendants and our Golf Professionals, we wish you and yours the very best this holiday and offseason. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Now 5 months post-surgery, this member is beyond excited to get into the Club’s Indoor Golf Den and pick up where we left off. We have already discussed the original goals and made a few adjustments, and that’s perfectly normal at any stage of the process. We are happy to help all members establish a plan or set goals. And why not beat the dark, cold, and wintery environment outside by working towards your goals inside!Of course, it would be easier to sit around and wait for the cold weather and what is forecasted to be a colder than usual offseason to pass us by; but if we are serious about reaching our golf goals for the upcoming season, it means using this time to get to work and prepare our minds and our swings. Why not reassess where we are as golfers, and perhaps establish some realistic goals. Using the time we have in the winter is a great way to work towards accomplishing them.As our team of professionals prepared for the change of season and opening of the Indoor Golf Den, we had time to appreciate what an ideal room/space this facility is to make significant changes to your game. Each of our professionals feel it is easier to succeed when you have a defined plan with detailed steps. Although I like to work towards a goal, it’s not the only step in the process. I am happy to have our Associate Professionals, Andrew and Craig share the three steps they believe are the key components to change and maximizing your practice during the offseason. Rather than just taking a few months off, what better time of year, or environment, to follow the advice below from Andrew steps 1 and 2, and Craig step 3. Each of these three aspects can help you improve your overall game – Swing, Body and Mind/Goal Setting. 1. SwingConsider taking lessons from one of our Club’s Professionals. We are happy to take an assessment of your swing and provide you with personalized feedback and drills to improve. We can also help review some swing fundamentals (such as grip and setup).I would suggest targeting any technique work that will help you make better contact or correcting any ball-flight inconsistencies. These are easy ways to sharpen your game in the offseason before heading back outdoors. GOLF REPORT

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13 WINTER 2024/2025GROUNDS REPORTAs the crisp fall frost transitions into the quiet blanket of winter snow, we are reminded of the resilience of nature and the intricate processes that prepare our plants for the season ahead. The shortening days and cooler nights signal a shift in the environment, triggering biological responses that help plants prepare for the harsh winter conditions. Looking back on the season, each year brings unique challenges, and this one was no exception. From completion of the Master Plan, pond project and sodding of irrigation trenches during a mild wet spring to the onset of a busy golfing season with summer heat and multiple heavy rain events, the golf course faced a variety of pressures. However, thanks to the ongoing commitment and investment from our Membership in enhancing plant health and improving growing environments, the course has once again held up admirably. The consistent efforts to improve sunlight and airflow, coupled with aeration and frequent sand topdressing, have allowed us to manage even the most challenging conditions. Key to these inputs has been drainage and the continued necessity to move water through or across the landscape. Climate change underscores the importance of further improvements to help plants thrive amidst changing conditions.As we look ahead, the familiar questions about winter weather begin to surface: “Will La Niña take over from El Niño this year?” “Does the abundance of acorns mean a longer, harsher winter?” While these questions are often raised, the answers remain uncertain. Weather forecasters and the Farmer’s Almanac offer some clues, but these seasonal shifts are difficult to predict with certainty.The Possibility of La NiñaFor the upcoming winter, some forecasts suggest that La Niña, the cool counterpart to El Niño, may influence the climate patterns around the Great Lakes. If La Niña conditions do develop, they typically bring colder temperatures and drier conditions to parts of the region, with the potential for increased snowfall. For the Great Lakes area, this could mean colder-than-average temperatures along with a shift in precipitation patterns. Historically, La Niña winters tend to bring above-average snowfall to the northern Great Lakes, while areas south may experience more frequent dry spells.The effects of La Niña can be complex, though. While the forecast predicts above average precipitation, there’s always the potential for brief periods of warmer weather, making it harder to predict exactly how it will impact our landscape. Regardless of whether La Niña takes hold, we remain committed to ensuring the health of the golf course, taking proactive measures to prepare for whatever winter conditions lie ahead. Winter Preparations and Turf CareTo help the course withstand the cold months, we’ve put several strategies in place. In previous winters, our team has drilled vertical drainage chimneys and identified topographic exit points to improve surface drainage, allowing water to flow more easily during freeze/thaw cycles. This helps prevent water from Jayson Griffiths, Director of Agronomy and Groundsjgriffiths@londonhuntclub.com, https://x.com/GriffithsJaysonWinter Grounds Report

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accumulating on the greens and causing damage to the turf. Once the course is closed for the season, a final layer of sand topdressing will be applied to protect plant crowns from drying winds. Additionally, daily monitoring of remote data sensors, soil temperatures, moisture and the use of perforated Geotextiles to mitigate temperature extremes and allow for easier snow and ice removal when necessary. While these covers don’t prevent ice encasement, they play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the turf during the winter months.Though many may view winter as “downtime,” for golf course superintendents, the season is far from over. The winter months offer a unique opportunity to reflect on the past season while preparing for the one ahead.Winter Activities and Outdoor EnjoymentWhile the golf course may not be in play, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the winter landscape. This year, we’ll once again mark and groom winter walking trails for all to enjoy—from casual dog walkers to avid skiers and snowshoe enthusiasts. Additionally, we’re excited to add a few handcrafted benches along the trails where you can pause, take in the scenery, and experience the peaceful beauty of the golf course. Winter access for safety and security is monitored, albeit, limited during working hours. We ask Members to be aware of icy conditions that can present on course during winter months as contractor equipment access pathways are not commonly sanded.As winter sets in, we are also focusing on winter course maintenance, including snow removal, monitoring ice on greens, and clearing pathways for safe access. Our team continues to work behind the scenes, ensuring the grounds are well-maintained and ready for the next season. Beyond course care, we are also preparing for the future, with plans to open “The Quad” chipping and practice area with 2 additional sand bunkers next May in addition to the building and extension of select tee decks on hole 5 and 9 to improve options for play with enhanced traffic. All these measures are in collaboration with consulting architects Dr. Michael and Dr. Chris Hurdzan, the Golf Course Standards and Conditioning Committee and the Golf Committee who continue to provide feedback to help develop future course improvements for implementation.Gratitude and Looking AheadAs we move into December and the holiday season, we want to take a moment to express our gratitude for the support of the Membership. The commitment and hard work of the Grounds Team, led by Equipment Manager Taylor Cairns, Assistant Mechanic Rick Asselstine, Assistant Matt Deans, Part-time Administrative Specialist Deb Dale plus the addition of new team members, ensures the equipment and course remains in top form. Their dedication, along with the continued investment in our seasonal employees, plays a key role in creating a special place for all.Winter is a time for reflection, rejuvenation, and spending time with family and friends. The peaceful serenity of your Club offers an opportunity to recharge before we begin anew in the coming year. We look forward to seeing Members enjoy the beauty of the winter landscape and to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in 2025.Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and your family!14GROUNDS REPORT

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15 WINTER 2024/2025RACQUET REPORTAs a tennis professional, traveling to a high-stakes tournament involves more than just showing up with your racquets and clothes. It’s a multi-step process that begins days, sometimes weeks, before you step onto the court. For me, this particular journey started with something as simple yet crucial as adjusting my internal clock.Adjusting to Time Zone ChangeEven before the 48-hour mark of my departure to Tokyo, I started to prepare my body for the time change. Japan is 13 hours ahead of my local time zone, so the first step was to set my clock to match Japan’s. This wasn’t just about changing the time on my phone or watch; it meant altering my sleeping, eating, and daily routines to gradually align with Tokyo’s schedule.At first, it wasn’t easy. My body resisted the shift, and adjusting my sleep patterns was challenging. However, it was necessary to minimize jet lag and ensure I was fully prepared to perform once I arrived in Tokyo. I synchronized my training sessions with Japan’s time zone, so when I hit the courts, I’d be physically and mentally aligned with the local rhythm.Equipment Preparation: The Details MatterBeyond just getting my body ready, I also had to focus on the technical side of preparation - specifically, my tennis equipment. Every tournament is different, and knowing the specifics beforehand can make all the difference in performance.First, I checked what type of tennis balls the tournament would be using. It might sound like a small detail, but different brands of balls affect thePREPARING FOR A TENNIS TOURNAMENT IN TOKYOA Two-Day Journey Adam Baranowski, Director of Racquet Sports, abaranowski@londonhuntclub.comhttps://www.instagram.com/londonhuntclub_tennis/playability, bounce, and feel of the game. Having this knowledge allowed me to adjust my game plan and anticipate how the ball would behave during matches.Next, I made sure to gather information on the surface of the courts. This tournament would be played on hard courts, so I needed to break in my hard court shoes. As any player knows, wearing brand-new shoes on match day can lead to blisters and discomfort, so I made sure to wear them during my practice sessions in the days leading up to departure.Racquet preparation was also a priority. With three racquets in total, I had to make sure they were fully strung, grips replaced, and ready for use. Stringing a racquet is an essential part of my routine - each one takes about 20 minutes to restring. I used fresh polyester strings at 55 lbs tension (both mains and crosses), added a new Yonex stencil, and swapped out the old grips for fresh ones. With all three racquets prepped and ready, my equipment was in top shape.Physical Maintenance: Body Care is KeyOne of the less glamorous but equally important aspects of preparation is taking care of your body. Intense training, travel, and competition can take a toll on the muscles and joints, so I make sure to prioritize recovery.For me, that means a good massage and cupping session. While these treatments are painful - especially when breaking down fascia and working out knots in the muscles - the results are worth it. After a 60-minute session with my therapist, I felt like I had been reborn. The pain of working through those tight areas faded quickly and were, replaced with a sense of rejuvenation and readiness. These treatments are not just about relaxation - they’re about maintaining peak physical condition to perform at my best.

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16RACQUET REPORTWINTER 2024/2025Packing for Two Weeks of CompetitionPacking is always a bit of a juggling act. You want to bring everything you might need, but you also don’t want to overpack. For a two-week trip that includes both training sessions and matches, I had to make sure I had enough clothes to get through the entire period. At the same time, I reminded myself that laundry facilities would be available if necessary, which helped keep my packing list in check.I packed multiple sets of training clothes, match attire, as well as a variety of shoes, socks, and accessories. It’s easy to overthink packing, but after years of experience, I’ve learned that you can usually make do with a minimalist approach while still being prepared for any situation.The Final Countdown: 24 Hours Before DepartureWith all the preparation in place, it was time for the final steps. 24 hours before my flight, I checked in and made sure I had my boarding passes. I also printed out all the key information related to the tournament, hotel details, and important contact information, ensuring everything was organized and easily accessible.At this point, the excitement started to sink in. I was about to travel to Tokyo, one of the most iconic cities in the world, to compete in a tournament among the best players on the planet. This was an opportunity not only to test myself but to represent my country and my Club on the international stage.As I packed my final items, I couldn’t help but reflect on the journey ahead. The hard work, the preparation, and the sacrifices were all leading up to this moment: stepping onto the court, ready to compete and give everything I had.In conclusion, preparing for a major tennis tournament like the one in Tokyo is much more than just the day of travel. It’s a series of deliberate steps - adjusting to the time zone, preparing equipment, maintaining your body, and packing with precision - that all come together to set you up for success. As I boarded my flight, I knew I had done everything possible to ensure I was ready to compete at the highest level. Now, all that was left was to perform.

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17 WINTER 2024/2025FITNESS REPORTMISCONCEPTIONS, MYTHS, &MISLEADING PROMISESTracey Machesney, Fitness Manager - tmachesney@londonhuntclub.comThe fitness and wellness industry is often plagued by misconceptions, long-held myths, and misleading promises. With so much information available, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction. Let’s tackle some of the most common fitness misconceptions head-on, offering accurate, science-backed insights to help you make informed decisions about your health and wellness journey. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or just getting started, understanding the truth behind these myths can empower you to achieve your goals more effectively. Strength Training Will Make You Bulk UpStrength training alone will not automatically make you bulk up. For significant muscle growth (hypertrophy), you need to have specific training programs focused on increasing muscle size, paired with an appropriate diet, often with a calorie surplus. Many people, especially women, will increase strength without experiencing extreme muscle growth. Strength training is a fantastic way to boost metabolism, which aids in fat loss while building lean muscle mass.You Can Spot-Reduce FatSpot reduction is a myth. Fat loss occurs uniformly across the body, and no exercise, no matter how targeted (e.g., crunches for the belly), will burn fat from a specific area. Fat loss happens when you create a caloric deficit through a combination of proper diet and overall exercise. Your body decides where it loses fat, not your workout.Doing Lots of Cardio Is the Best Way to Lose WeightWhile cardio can help you burn calories in the short term, it is not the most effective method for long-term fat loss. Strength training builds lean muscle, and muscle tissue burns more calories at rest compared to fat. A combination of strength training and cardio, along with a proper diet, is the best strategy for fat loss. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is particularly effective as it combines both aerobic and anaerobic exercises in a way that boosts metabolism post-exercise.

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18 WINTER 2024/2025FITNESS REPORTCrunches Are the Best Exercises for Your AbsCrunches alone will not give you visible abs. While they work the abdominal muscles, they do not target the entire core effectively. A comprehensive core routine should engage the entire trunk, including exercises like planks, leg raises, and rotational movements. Additionally, visible abs are more about reducing overall body fat through a combination of exercise and diet rather than doing isolated ab exercises.You Have to Do At Least 20 Minutes of Cardio to Make it Worth Your WhileYou can achieve significant benefits from shorter durations of exercise, especially with High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). HIIT has been shown to provide similar or even superior cardiovascular benefits compared to traditional steady-state cardio in a much shorter time-frame. It also boosts metabolism post-workout, helping with continued calorie burning even at rest.Detox Diets Are Necessary to Cleanse Your BodyThe body has its own built-in detox systems, primarily the liver, kidneys, and digestive system. Special detox diets or cleanses are not required for this process, and often, they can lead to nutrient deficiencies or dehydration. Eating a balanced diet with fiber, hydration, and adequate sleep is more effective for supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes.You Need to Work Out Every Day for ResultsWhile consistency is key, rest and recovery are just as important. Overtraining can lead to burnout, injuries, and hinder progress. The body needs time to repair and build muscle, especially after intense workouts. A balanced routine with rest days and active recovery is essential for long-term progress.Plant-Based Diets Are Automatically HealthierWhile plant-based diets can be incredibly nutritious, simply being plant-based does not guarantee health. Processed plant-based foods (like certain vegan junk foods) can be high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives. A well-balanced, whole-food plant-based diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains is ideal for health.If You are Not Sweating, You Are Not Working Hard EnoughSweating is not an accurate indicator of the intensity of a workout. The amount you sweat can be influenced by numerous factors, including genetics, temperature, and hydration levels. It is possible to have an effective workout without sweating profusely, especially in strength training or low-intensity workouts.You Have to Cut Carbs to Lose WeightCarbohydrates are an essential nutrient that provides energy for the body, particularly for physical activity. Cutting carbs completely can lead to energy depletion and nutrient imbalances. Instead, focusing on the quality of carbs (like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) and eating them in appropriate portions is a healthier approach for weight management.Supplements Are a Magic Solution for Weight LossNo supplement, whether it is fat burners or other weight-loss pills, will provide significant or lasting results without proper diet and exercise. Supplements can be useful to fill gaps in nutrition, but they are not a replacement for healthy lifestyle habits. Sustainable weight loss requires a combination of a balanced diet, exercise, and other healthy habits.These misconceptions can often be perpetuated through social media, influencers, or quick-fix diet trends. It is always best to approach wellness advice critically and consider evidence-based practices to make informed decisions about fitness and health.

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TRAP/SKEET REPORT19 WINTER 2024/2025The Trap and Skeet season is off to a great start with very strong interest from new shooters joining us on Wednesday’s and for the Saturday afternoon “Intro for New Shooters” clinics. There have been over 30 members and guests participating and several have caught “Trap Fever” returning to practice and compete.We held our first competitive shoot for the season on Saturday November 30, 2024. It was the inaugural event sponsored by Susan Weldon. Please follow the weekly eNews for competition results and upcoming events.The firearms certification course held in September had full attendance and we will schedule an additional course this season once there are eight signed up on the waiting list. Anyone interested in taking the course for their PAL please contact Laura Vieira at info@londonhuntclub.com.We welcome all members to drop into the Chalet for breakfast or lunch on Saturdays and Wednesday night dinners for socializing and to shoot a round of Trap or Skeet.Note: a “PAL” (Possession and Acquisition Licence) is not required to participate. Members and guests must be at least 12 years of age to attend the Chalet and competition areas. We have club guns to use for those who do not have a shotgun, and instruction can be obtained from experienced shooters in a safe and controlled environment. Please contact Laura Vieira at info@londonhuntclub.com or Blair Alton at blairalton@rogers.com to schedule a time.Wednesday scheduled shooting times are 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday’s competitions are 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and fields are open until 3:00pm for experienced or new shooters to practice.Please see Roger Erickson or Blair Alton when you sign in and we will be happy to provide an overview of the facilities and details about this great sport.Blair Alton, Chair of the Trap and Skeet Committeeblairalton@rogers.comTrap and Skeet

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20 WINTER 2024/2025FACES IN THE CLUBBioHi, I’m Jackie! I was born and raised here in London, Ontario. With a passion for service and a dedication to excellence, I have spent several years thriving in the hospitality industry. My studies began in Windsor where I received a diploma in Hospitality for Hotel and Restaurant Management. Soon after, I was presented with the opportunity to study in Australia to further my education, where I completed my Bachelor of Business for Hotel Management. My many roles in front-line customer service taught me the importance of creating memorable experiences for guests. Over the years, I have taken on various positions, from front desk receptionist to restaurant supervisor, honing my skills in communication, organization, and problem-solving. I believe that every interaction is an opportunity to make a positive impact, and I strive to bring warmth and professionalism to every guest encounter. I am always seeking new ways to enhance the guest experience while also contributing to the success of my team. I am excited to embrace new challenges and opportunities at the club, driven by my passion for service and my desire to create lasting memories for those I serve. My commitment to continuous learning and growth, and my new fascination for the human body, has lead me back to school where I am currently studying to become a Massage Therapist. I am excited to embark on a new career path that allows me to make a positive impact on the lives of others through the power of massage.Hobbies:Some of my favourite hobbies including cooking and baking, and anything that keeps me physically active, such as hiking scenic trails, biking, and running. I love spending my free time in the outdoors where I can connect with nature and enjoy the fresh air. I have a passion for travel and hope to continue visiting parts of the world throughout my life. I enjoy expressing my creativity through crafts such as making dreamcatchers, moccasins and macrame. In my downtime, I’m more than likely just hanging out with my cat, Chester. Favourite thing about the Club:One of my favourite aspects is the stunning natural beauty that surrounds me every day. The picturesque landscapes create a serene atmosphere that makes coming to work feel like a retreat. I also love the sense of community among the staff and the members. Building relationships with fellow employees and members adds a personal touch to the work environment, making it feel more like a family. JACKIE MONTURE[ BANQUET CAPTAIN ]Faces in the Club

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UPCOMING EVENTSWINTER EVENTSMark your calendars for a variety to Club Championships,Member-Guest, and Closing Dinners.Also on the calendar...Men’s Christmas PartyDecember 4Women’s Christmas PartyDecember 5Intermediate Christmas PartyDecember 6Hunt Club High TeaDecember 7, 14, 21Tortière Pie DrivePick up by December 13Office Christmas LunchesDecember 20Hunt Club Family ChristmasDecember 22M.E. Howe Boxing Day ShootDecember 26PA Day CampJanuary 17Valentine’s Day FeatureFebruary 14Stay tuned for additional upcoming events in the weekly eNews.Clubhouse ClosedDecember 23December 24December 25December 26January 1February 21Please note, there will be no food and beverage service January 1 to 14. Food and beverage services will commence on January 15.Children’s Christmas PartyDecember 15Celebrate with Santa and enjoy holiday festivities with family and friends Hunt Club Holiday MarketDecember 10-20Pre order cookies, loaf cakes, and hot meals ready for family gatheringsRobbie Burns DayJanuary 25A feature menu celebrating the life and poetry of the Robert Burns, Scottish poet and lyricist.New Year’s Eve DinnerDecember 31Enjoy a New Year’s Eve feature menu atthe Club to celebratethe end of the yearWINTER 2024/202521

Club Life Magazine - Winter 2024/2025

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