ISSUE TWENTY WINTER 2019/2020INSIDEWORLD HANDICAP SYSTEM60 SECONDS WITH...HEALTHY HOLIDAY ALTERNATIVESMAN’S BEST FRIENDCLUB LIFEmagazineLONDON HUNT AND COUNTRY CLUB
EXPERIENCE THE EXCEPTIONAL THIS HOLIDAY SEASONContact the Club to book your private function, dinner reservations,take-out order or to sign up for a Club event.Men’s Christmas Party - December 4Women’s Christmas Party - December 5Children’s Christmas Party - December 15Victorian Christmas - December 23HUNT CLUB HOLIDAYS
ALSO IN THIS ISSUEPRESIDENT’S MESSAGE................. 03CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER’S REPORT......................................... 05HEALTHY HOLIDAY ALTERNATIVES .................................................... 07NEW BEGINNINGS......................... 10IT’S ONLY COLD... ...................... 12WORLD HANDICAP SYSTEM...... 13.60 SECONDS WITH... ...................... 14GROUNDS REPORT. ...................... 15PICKLEBALL................................ 17MAN’S BEST FRIEND..................... 20TRAP AND SKEET REPORT .......... 21EVENT CALENDAR....................... 22JUST FOR JUNIORS...................... 24Board of DirectorsBOARD OF DIRECTORS Peter ChannerPresidentLynne LeitchFirst Vice PresidentJohn SliskovicSecond Vice PresidentJohn Vander HoevenPast President Debra BryantDieter BruckschwaigerDavid MooreBeth NelliganFrank LongoBritta JonesJeff PetrieMANAGEMENT TEAMJon Nusink, CCM CCEChief Operating OfficerTim McKeiver, PGA of CanadaGolf ProfessionalJayson GriffithsGolf Course SuperintendentAdam BaranowskiTennis ProfessionalTracey MachesneyFitness ManagerBen EngHouse Department SupervisorMitch BukataFacilities Maintenance LeadMichael StarkExecutive ChefChris CarnegieDirector of Food and BeverageMonica Mick, CPA, CAControllerBrandie CooperMembership and Communications ManagerWINTER 2019/2020CONTENTS 7 12HEALTHY HOLIDAY ALTERNATIVESIT’S ONLYCOLD...2WINTER 2019/2020 20MAN’S BESTFRIEND 1460 SECONDS WITH...
The snow has begun to fall, taking over the grounds we enjoyed during a record year of golf rounds, covering the court lines at our tennis facility, but bringing with it a new season for the Trap and Skeet enthusiasts. The Fitness facility will become increasingly busier than usual and Christmas Dining Events are starting to ramp up in the clubhouse. Truly a Club for all seasons!A special thanks to all the Members who attended one of the three sessions of the Golf Course Master Plan on course presentation and fireside chat and Q&A with Michael and Chris Hurdzan. The feedback has been very positive and Doug MacKenzie and the ad-hoc committee, along with the Hurdzan’s team are now tasked with working on the graphics for future presentations as well as the costing of the project for further review. This will move the committee closer to bringing the complete Golf Course Master Plan including Irrigation, Bunkers, and other course improvements to the Shareholders for approval in the spring of 2020. By then we will have had enough time to properly prepare estimates and issue Requests for Proposals to the top firms specializing in their fields. Thereafter we hope to start construction of the project in September 2021 with the intended roll out of the project to minimize golf course disruption, occurring in two phases at the beginnings and ends of the golf season. In September 2021 – May 2022, the back nine work would occur with the full front nine open for play. May 2022 – August 2022, the full 18 holes would be open for play as usual. September 2022 – May 2023, the front nine work would occur with the full back nine open for play. In May 2023, the full 18 holes would be open for play as usual. In late August, the Board had met to discuss the annual strategic plan for 2020. Each pillar was reviewed thoroughlywith the action plan recommendations discussion. Out of this exercise will come the 2020 action plan which will be posted on the resources section of the Club’s website after the January Board Meeting.As well, the Board travelled to Mississauga Golf & Country Club for our September board meeting. After our meeting, General Manager Jeff Germond graciously gave us the grand tour of their facility including their new fitness centre, virtual golf bays, completed bunker project as well as their member casual bar design. We had lunch with their President exchanging thoughts and ideas. Then a quick round of golf and hopped on the bus home, while discussing the differences between clubs, it is great to see some of the great things our friends are doing at their Clubs, but it sure gives you an appreciation of how great we have it here at home!One of the perks of being President was to represent our club at the CSCM National Conference dinner, attended by many Club Managers and their executive teams. I was very humbled by the accolades from everyone I spoke to regarding our Club whether to do with condition of the golf course and grounds, Clubhouse, tennis and fitness centre or the magnificent dining experience prepared by Chef Michael and his staff! It was a great opportunity to show off our Club to the top Clubs in the country. Congratulations to all staff who work tirelessly day to day making the London Hunt Club the envy of many.From a financial perspective, the Club’s operations are ahead of budget to the end of October with the expectation that the operations will be slightly Board of DirectorsPRESIDENT’S MESSAGEPeter Channerpeter@channers.com3WINTER 2019/2020
and/or increase as the Club contemplates moving ahead with the Golf Course Master Plan.With a key element of our success being the recruitment and retention of Members, we were pleased to welcome four more families into membership in November. This brings us closer to our targeting membership levels. The Membership Committee re-initiated a group incentive when multiple applications are submitted together to further entice recruitment of potential members. For more information on this or any membership inquiries please contact Brandie Cooper or Jon Nusink. Thank you in advance for your assistance in building the health of our Club membership. The clubhouse will be bustling this month with the Men’s and Ladies Christmas parties, private and corporate holiday functions. Please travel safe and feel free to ask staff to arrange transportation at any of these events. Also, don’t forget to reserve a table at my favourite event the annual Children’s Christmas Party. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Trudy and I, wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe and healthy holiday season.Yours respectfully,Peter ChannerClub Presidentprofitable for the calendar year. Capital expenditures for 2019 will be in the range of $1.4 - 1.5 million, and the Club’s cash position is forecast to increase compared to the end of 2018 with further cash expected to be restricted and put aside for future capital projects, including irrigation replacement.The Finance and Audit Committee recently held their annual meeting to review the 2020 budget prepared by management, and the budget has been presented to the Board by the Chair of the Committee and approved. While no significant increase is expected in minimum wages for 2020, the Club is moving toward setting wages with reference to the Living Wage concept for permanent staff to retain, attract and reward their hard work and dedication to the Club. Through 2019 the Resident Shareholder category dropped below the budgeted target of 485 Resident Shareholders, to 475 through much of the year. This has a significant impact to the budgeting process as there are fewer Members to share the cost of the Club’s amenities. We continue to seek the assistance of the Membership in promoting our exceptional Club and all it offers to your friends, family, and acquaintances to bolster our membership levels so as to afford us the continued quality services we enjoy. As a result of the above, in addition to typical inflationary cost increases, Management and the Finance and Audit Committee have recommended an increase in dues for 2020 of three per cent for the Resident Shareholder category, and the Board have confirmed this recommendation. Capital expenditures for 2020 are budgeted at approximately $1.1 million, and with the collection of entrance fee payments, the resulting cash position is forecast to increase slightly by the end of 2020. It is important that the cash position be maintained4WINTER 2019/2020
I once heard a quote that went something like this: “If you choose to not find joy in a bit of snowfall…you will simply have less joy, and the same amount of snow.”We have experienced January in November with an early taste of winter which brought an abrupt halt to the tennis and golf facilities. In fact, both closed about a week early due to snow.This weather bookended a very interesting season at the Club in that May was cold and wet. Luckily, we had a great summer with just the right amount of rain, beautiful sunny days, and temperatures that lend themselves to our outdoor activities. Despite the poor beginning and end to the season, both the golf rounds, and tennis games saw a considerable increase for the year. In golf, we realized 1200 more rounds (+4.5%) over last year, and 2019 was the busiest year in at least the past decade in terms of tee times. There were 26,677 rounds in total. The Winter Golf Academy is currently being assembled and will be ready the week of December 1.In tennis, there were 22,300 games this year. This is up 8.2% from last year, however, we had an especially late start in 2018 due to the Tennis Chalet being under construction. The average play over the last decade is 21,604, so we were 3.22% over the average. The Golf and Tennis Committees are already working on the program for next year’s seasons.The Trap and Skeet season opened in mid October to a newly renovated Chalet. The project came in $7,000 (5%) above the budgeted $150,000 which is to be expected when dealing with the unknown challenges of old buildings, but it is an unbelievable difference from what we had previously. I urge all Members to drop in Wednesdays after 3:00 p.m. or Saturdays after 8:00 a.m. to see the changes and watch some target shooting. In fact, it has been said, the best Saturday morning eggs and bacon in the city can be found here! Fun fact…did you know that the Trap Chalet was originally the Tennis Chalet, and was picked up and moved in the late 70’s to its current location? For a few years, it doubled as a Tennis/Trap Chalet when the trap fields pointed to what is now the Hunt Mews. Apparently, the residents in the Mews didn’t want to be shot at while enjoying a morning coffee, so the trap fields were moved with the building and shortly following, the Tennis Chalet was built, and additional courts were added.As a very brief financial summary, at October 31 we were favourable with $19,098 in income from operations, compared to a budgeted loss of $168,726. Members Dues are $70k under budget. Green fees and carts are $9500 over budget and food and beverage remains under budget by $62k net mainly due to lower than budget sponsored events revenue. Expenses in every department are well controlled resulting in our positive bottom line to date. I am looking forward to reporting another successful year in the next issue of Club Life. Other than the Trap Chalet, and our RMT room, we are very happy to have finally completed our driveway paving project.At the end of November, our Resident Shareholder count was 480, 5 below our overall budget. Despite this, our membership count is 14 greater than this point in time last year due to the increase in the Intermediate Category. We welcomed 18 Resident Shareholder, and 12 Intermediate (under 40) families in 2019.Since the last issue of Club Life Magazine, we have welcomed the following Members:Radek Rybicki and Caitlin Symonette are new Intermediate 35-39 Members. Radek has a degree in Chemical Engineering and works for Ingredion Incorporated and Caitlin is a plastic surgeon dividing her time between pediatric surgery at Victoria Hospital and the Children’s Hospital and performing adult upper extremity plastic surgery at the Roth MacFarlane Hand and Upper Limb centre. They have two boys aged 4 and 1, and a baby on the way. They were proposed by Ross McDonald and seconded by Paul and Ellen Shanks.5WINTER 2019/2020Winter ReportJon Nusink, GM/COO - jnusink@londonhuntclub.com
Shawn and Betty Jakupi are new Resident Shareholder Members. Shawn owns and operates Tall Oak Private Wealth, a division of Raymond James Ltd. and Betty raises their three children aged 7, 5 and 3. They were proposed by Keith Sequiera and seconded by Jason Meyer.Dave Simpson and Diana Inculet are new Resident Shareholder Members. Dave teaches at the Ivey School of Business and Diana is a retired Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Engineering. They were proposed by Bob Siskind and seconded by John Nash.Spencer and Carolyn Nicholson are new Resident Shareholder Members. Spencer is a lawyer with Nicholson Smith & Partners LLP and Carolyn is a speech language pathologist with the Thames Valley Children Centre. They join with their sons ages 16 and 14. They were proposed by John Watson and seconded by Scott Smith.King Thomas and Johanna Mitzopoulos are new Out of Province Members. King leads the controls product distribution business throughout Canada and the US for Johnson Controls Inc. where Johanna works in technical sales and sales leadership. Their primary residence is in Washington DC but frequently visit London where Johanna is from. They were proposed by Andy Szemenyei and seconded by Colin Szemenyei.Bruce and Joan Estabrooks are new Resident Shareholder Members. They come to the Club through the reverse legacy program as the parents of Jen Wilbee. Bruce was a partner with a national chartered accounting firm before switching careers and becoming a secondary school math teacher and Joan is a manager at the University of Western Ontario in the medical sciences department. They were proposed by Jen and Tim Wilbee and seconded by Paul Coates.Laurie and Jerry Sobie are new Resident Shareholder Members. They come through the Legacy program as Laurie is Charlie Kimball’s daughter and Rob Kimball’s sister. Both Laurie and Jerry are in the Financial Services industry. Laurie as a Partner with Bell Financial Inc. and Jerry as a Partner with Northstone Wealth and Estate Management.Jay and Sandy Kielt are new Resident Shareholder Members. Jay is Vice President for Eastern Canada at On Side Restoration Ltd. and Sandy is a registered nurse. They were proposed by Peter Channer and seconded by Bryan Channer.We are also very happy to welcome back Dr. Allan and Donna Doerr to membership. Allan and Donna left on a hiatus in 2013 to Toronto to be close to family and grandchildren. They have recently moved back to London and are looking forward to reconnecting with their friends at the Club.Thank you to all the Members who participated in the voluntary gratuity program which was introduced to reward and incent staff who were non-management or who already benefitted from the food and beverage gratuity pool. I was surprised at the generosity. The total amount pledged was $19,110 from 85 families. The average was $225, and median was $100. It was distributed to 79 staff who qualified, ranging from $70 to $500 depending on the number of hours they worked, averaging $220. The staff were very thankful for this unexpected gratuity payment. Thank you again for your generous support.At our upcoming Staff Christmas Party in January, we will be awarding a number of staff on quinquennial milestones. Tsehay Gebru and Maria Torres, who both work in the Clubhouse Department have both been with us for 15 years. The following staff have been with us for five years: Brittany McCutcheon (Sous Chef), Tyhlor Mergerenn (Kitchen), and Arthur Skuba (Food and Beverage). Congratulations to these staff and the many others who have been with us for many years, providing the Hunt Club Service which we are known for. As a special note, the three longest serving staff members are Deb Dale (Assistant Superintendent) 37 years, Mark McCallum (Mechanic/Course Equipment Guru) 34 years, and Pete Willems (Bar Manager) 28 years. There is a lot going on around the Club this season. I hope you join us for a Christmas Party, New Years Eve, or a meal out with friends during the winter. Here at the Club, we are very happy to be a part of your lives especially this time of year.On behalf of the exceptional staff at the Club, from our families to yours, I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, and much joy in the New Year.6WINTER 2019/2020
During the holidays many of us over-indulge at holiday parties that seem to never end. The good news is there are simple ways you can avoid high fat and sugar laden food and drinks this holiday season. Mix for alcohol is often a soda that is high in sugars and calories. Avoid this by creating cocktails with sparkling water, fresh squeezed fruit, and/or vegetable juices that taste great and do not contain the high amounts of sugars in soda for yourself and guests. Bread stuffing is a popular side dish but there are healthier alternatives. This holiday season consider offering a grain stuffing such a quinoa. It’s as flavourful as traditional bread stuffing, holds well and has a better overall nutritional profile that is much less fattening than bread. Desserts are abundant during the holidays and creating healthy options can be hard but not impossible. Instead of pies or cakes, try baked apples or fresh fruit with aquafaba. Aquafaba reduces the fat of whipped cream and replaces it with a product that is very close in texture and flavour. The recipe for this delicious treat is included below.Eggnog is a holiday tradition and unfortunately a fattening one as even vegan eggnog is high in calories. When appropriate, replace it with dark hot chocolate. Using small amounts of sugar, good quality dark chocolate and skimmed milk, a rich and tasty hot chocolate can be achieved that not only eliminates the calories of eggnog but includes the health benefits of dark chocolate. Sour cream is often offered as a condiment, used to create dips, or used in casseroles. Even light sour cream can be quite fattening. Replacing sour cream with Greek yogurt works well in dips and casseroles with no noticeable flavour change. When used as a Michael Stark, Executive Chef - mstark@londonhuntclub.comHealthy Holiday Alternativescondiment the addition of lemon juice, herbs or garlic will create a more flavourful experience with a lot less calories.Pasta is another item that often pops up on holiday menus. Replacing pasta noodles with zucchini noodles is a nutritious and tasty way to create a unique holiday dish. The long strands of zucchini can be quickly sautéed with a small amount of oil, steamed or quickly boiled then used in place of pasta in your favorite pasta dish. A vegetable spiral cutter can be found in most kitchen shops or ordered online. Heavy dips are a holiday favorite. Every family has someone that brings a heavy cream cheese-based dip to holiday functions. These can be replaced with a hummus dip of your own creation. Try mixing in some basil roasted garlic and sundried tomatoes with your hummus, it is delicious. You can create your own hummus with any ingredients and the result will be a fraction of the calories of dairy based dips. Charcuterie and cheese plates are commonplace at holiday gatherings. Unfortunately, both are full of fat and filled with salt and nitrates which can make you bloated. A great alternative is poached shrimp with cocktail sauce and crudité. They offer the same snacking sensation with less calories and more nutritional value, especially if you substitute the ranch dip with a low-fat yogurt option. With a few small adjustments it is easy to transition from the holidays through New Year’s without regret. Wishing you all a happy and healthy holiday season! AquafabaIngredients: Two cans worth of chickpea liquid drained from the can; One cup of white caster sugar; One teaspoon of cream of tartar.Method: In a stand mixer or using a hand blender mix the chickpea liquid on high for one minute, add the sugar and cream of tartar. Continue to whip for four minutes on high. This will produce white stiff peaks and the aquafaba will remain whipped for one hour. It may need to be re-whipped if left longer than an hour. 7WINTER 2019/2020
8WINTER 2019/2020
2019GLENMORE DINING ROOMA LA CARTE FEATURE MENURESERVATIONS BEGINNING AT 6:00 P.M.LIVE DINNER MUSICNEW YEAR’S EVEplease contact the Club to make reservations* the regular menu will not be available that evening
10WINTER 2019/2020When our passion for something comes calling it is hard for one to ignore. Such is the case for our Banquet and Catering Manager Sarah Dramnitzke. Since a young age and before she could see over the counter Sarah would assist in making dinner for her family every night. This was the beginning of her draw to the world of culinary arts. Sarah’s professional career started at the age of 17 right here in London at International Fish and Chips. While working there she was fortunate to work under a chef from Europe that was hand selected from over 1000 chefs to come to Canada in the 80’s and open a new restaurant. He taught Sarah many different styles of cooking, showing her everything from the basics to very intricate Portuguese and French cuisine. The years of one on one training she received were parallel to her skill and success. From there Sarah joined the Casey’s franchise and managed a locations kitchen for 5 years directing up to ten staff at a time. The need for progression didn’t stop there. Sarah wanted to fulfill a dream and own her own restaurant, and that’s just what she did. Sarah opened her own restaurant in the town of Petrolia called Actors. She ran it successfully for 2 years working 7 days a week creating menu’s and experimenting with new service styles. Missing friends and family in London she decided to sell the business and move back home. In 2016 Sarah became a cook in the kitchen of the London Hunt and Country Club. Sarah instantly showed her skill in the kitchen and became an integral part of the culinary team. In July of 2018 an opening became available for the position of Banquet and Catering Manager. Sarah eagerly showed interest in the position to gain more experience in a different element of hospitality and I was proud to be a part of the process to bring her aboard. Sarah has been an excellent addition and has had huge success managing the banquet side of the Club. Recently her passion called her once again and starting in 2020 Sarah has decided she would like to move back into the kitchen here at the Club working on the restaurant side. This will be beneficial to the operation as she is excited to help in creating new dishes and executing delicious plates to satisfy the Memberships palette.It is at this time that I would like to introduce Sarah’s successor as Banquet and Catering Manager. Starting in early December, Jamie West will come aboard and learn along side Sarah as the new Banquet and Catering Manager. Jamie West is a locally grown and nationally trained Sommelier and Beer Specialist. Jamie has completed both the Food & Beverage Hospitality Management and Concierge Services Graduate Degree programs at Fanshawe College and received her Sommelier certification from Ottawa’s Algonquin College. Jamie is also certified by the International Sommelier Guild as a Wine Steward (Level 1 & 2) and Level 3 with the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) and is also a Prud’Homme Level 1 & 2 Beer Specialist. Jamie’s passion for wine, beer and spirits has taken her to Ottawa, Toronto and back to London, where she has worked in private members’ clubs, high end hotels, and event management. She has been fortunate enough to travel to many wine regions such as Madeira, Portugal, Israel, San Francisco, Napa Valley and Sonoma County, to name a few stops. Her other love is hockey - an avid hockey player and coach for many years. Jamie has been training the next generation in hospitality as a professor at Fanshawe College’s School of Culinary Arts, Tourism and Hospitality. Jamie has also been the manager of the London Training Centre’s social enterprise, Allumette, for the last five years. To many of our Members, Jamie may look familiar. That’s no coincidence. Jamie has come full circle after having started her career in the industry as one of our own banquet servers in 2009 while she completed her studies at Fanshawe College many years ago. Jamie also has private club experience working at The Granite Club and The London Club. Jamie encourages questions, so feel free to ask her for a wine or beer pairing recommendation when you see her next! You can also see Jamie at the Western Fair’s 15th annual Wine & Food Show during her Guided Sommelier Tours in January. Welcome to the team Jamie!Chris Carnegie, Director of Food and Beverage - ccarnegie@londonhuntclub.comPassions and New Beginnings
11WINTER 2019/2020Trail on the 8th hole photographed by Adam Baranowski
12WINTER 2019/2020Tracey Machesney, Fitness Manager - tmachesney@londonhuntclub.com...when you’re standing still. Keep moving this winter inside or outside the Clubhouse!Take advantage of the beautiful landscape and views your Club has to offer 12 months a year, with a snowshoe or hike along the winter trails created by the fantastic crew at the Greens Department. Walking the slopes and hills on the course is a great way to improve both cardiovascular and muscular endurance. A map of the Clubs winter trails is available at the Front Desk of the Clubhouse. We encourage you to stop in to collect one prior to your hike.From the outside to the inside, our Fitness Centre has everything you need to continue your workout routine indoors. From state-of-the-art cardio equipment, functional trainers (cable machines), squat racks, leg press, leg extension, free weights and more. Join in one of our many fitness classes offered as early as 6:30 a.m. to as late as 8:00 p.m. or take advantage of our qualified and experienced Personal Trainers to help give you that extra push you may need.Additionally, this winter the Fitness Committee invites you to join them in the new year for a Fitness inspired Hunt Talks Speaker Series. On Wednesday, January 22, 2020, three guest speakers will be here to discuss three different topics; therapeutic uses for marijuana by Dr. Sequeira, sports injuries in our children by Dr. Litchfield, and how to balance fitness and nutrition to maximize results by Holistic Nutritionist and Personal Trainer Denise Lalonde. We are delighted to present the agenda for the evening in a Ted Talks format. If you are interested in attending this unique event, please register online or with Tracey Machesney today!6:30 p.m. Cocktails and hor d’oeuvres7:00 p.m. Guest Speakers8:30 p.m. Closing RemarksIt’s Only Cold...Registered Massage Therapy was added as a service alongside Fascial Stretch Therapy this past summer and it has been a great addition to the Fitness department. As a result of its success we have added an additional Registered Massage Therapist, Jenna Tapp.Jenna is a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) who graduated with honours in 2019 from Fanshawe College. She previously worked as a Registered Dental Hygienist for 13 years and decided to pursue massage therapy because she had always been drawn to holistic therapies, especially massage. She believes, with the proper support, our bodies and nervous systems have the wisdom and innate ability to heal. With a strong yogic background, Jenna approaches each individual with compassion and respect for the deep connection to our physical body, mind and soul. Jenna also teaches yoga and has been practicing for approximately 16 years. Yoga has taught her not only to pause and reflect, but also to let go. She strives to honour these valuable lessons and carry them throughout her practice as a Massage Therapist. She also loves to incorporate aromatherapy, reiki and meditation into her massage.Jenna’s Education• Fanshawe College Dental Assisting 2004• Fanshawe College Dental Hygiene 2006• Elegance School Esthetics 2010• Reiki level l & ll 2011• Hatha Yoga 200-hour teacher training 2016• Sivananda Yoga Vedanta 200-hour teacher training 2017• Fanshawe College Massage Therapy 2019 Book a Fascial Stretch Therapy or Registered Massage Therapy session with Rui or Jenna online at https://bodyrestore.janeapp.com/
Tim McKeiver, Head Golf Professional - tmckeiver@londonhuntclub.comEarlier this year the U.S.G.A. and R&A announced the much anticipated, World Handicap System, a universal, transportable system that will allow golfers of varying skill levels to post scores and make games anywhere they play. The system will go into effect throughout 2020. The first countries to come online in January will be the United States, Canada, Australia, South Korea, India and Mexico. Other countries from Europe and South America will follow later in 2020. The new system will be called the Rules of Handicapping.Rule #1: Purpose of the world handicap system.The system includes the Rules of Handicapping and the Course Rating system. With the main purpose to make the game of golf more enjoyable and to give as many golfers as possible the opportunity to: Obtain and maintain a handicap index, use their handicap index on any golf course around the world and compete or play a casual round, with anyone else on a fair and equal basis. This is achieved by establishing course and slope ratings for each set of tees, applying a uniform calculation for updating a handicap index based on all acceptable scores. Reviewing a player’s handicap index on a regular basis to ensure it continues to reflect the player’s demonstrated ability.Rule # 2: Acceptable ScoresA score is acceptable for handicap purposes if the round has been played: in an authorized format of play over at least the minimum number of holes required (9 or 18-hole scores are acceptable). In the company of at least one other person, who may act as a marker. By the rules of golf. On a golf course during the active season.Rule #3: Maximum hole score for handicap purposes.Once a handicap index has been established the maximum score for each hole played is limited to a net double bogey, calculated as follows: Par of the hole + 2 stokes + any handicap strokes that the player receives on the hole. There is no limit to the number of holes in a round where a net double bogey adjustment may be applied. World Handicap SystemRule # 4: Submitting a scoreA score posted into a player’s scoring record must be an acceptable score, recorded in the correct chronological order, even if the score is submitted on a day later than the date the round was played. Upon submission of a score, a player must ensure that the following information is provided for the inclusion in their scoring record. Date of the round played. Course rating and slope rating for the set of tees played.Rule #5: Handicap Index Calculation.This is the single biggest change from the old handicap calculation.1. With the old system a players index was calculated using the best 10 scores out of the last 20 scores posted. With the new world handicap system the calculations is made using the best 8 scores out of the last 20 posted. 2. The new system will incorporate the low handicap index, which represents the demonstrated ability of a player over the 12-month period preceding the most recent score and provides a reference point against which the current handicap index can be compared. Based on a players low index, there will be controls put in place to limit the upward movement of a handicap index. 3. The system will no longer look only at tournament scores to determine if a reduction is needed or not. Exceptional scores are triggered by a score of 7.0 below the players current handicap index. These scores will stay on the payers record of a 12-month period.Rule #6: Playing Condition CalculationA calculation that considers the impact that abnormal course and weather conditions might have on a players performance each day. Rule #7: Handicap CommitteeThe handicap committee will conduct a handicap review on a monthly basis. The review is conducted to ensure all club events are played on an even and equitable fashion. For those members heading south for the winter I look forward to seeing you again in the spring. For those staying in London please drop in and visit our Winter Golf Academy. Happy Holidays!13WINTER 2019/2020
14WINTER 2019/202060 Seconds With...SURF THE OCEAN OR INTERNET Ocean. I had lessons down Doheny Way four years ago, it was awesome.SOMETHING YOU’ve never tried but would like toRace a Formula 1 car in the Monaco Grand Prix.ONE THING YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUTGolf.LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHEDFerris Bueller’s Day Off.IF YOU COULD LIVE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD WHERE WOULD IT BEAtlanta Georgia: BBQ, pecan pie and golf year-round!JUNIOR CLUB CHAMPION FINALIST, GEORGIA LOVING, NETFLIX FAN ALEXANDER REITHNETFLIX OR YOUTUBENetflix.SOMETHING YOU’VE LEARNED ABOUT YOURSELFI am good at shooting and tennis. Came second in both at the club junior championships this year. I hadn’t given much time to either before. I like both. If I had to give up golf, I could enjoy doing either.FAVOURITE ITEM ON THE MENU AT THE CLUBBeef tenderloin, medium well, with steamed broccoli and mashed potatoes.Favourite SAYINGStrive for progress not perfection. Whenever I get down on my game my uncle will say this to me.Favourite HOLIDAY TRADITIONOur annual family trip to Detroit for US Thanksgiving, to watch the Lions play. My favourite Christmas tradition is decorating the tree with my family. Every year we go on a search for the perfect Christmas tree - the bigger, the better!
15WINTER 2019/2020The seasonal transition from fall frost to winter snow has begun. Nature, through temperature and light, initiates complex chemical reactions to better prepare plants for winter’s extremes. In reviewing seasons past; each year is remembered for certain environmental pressures or extremes; this season was no exception as a healthy golf course awakened to a cold, wet spring soon to be followed by a sudden start to summer that soared to above average temperatures. While the season was not without its challenges the golf course held up admirably to the “new normal” summer conditions. The commitment and investment the Membership has made to improving plant health growing environments through increased sunlight and airflow; including scheduled Drill and Fill, Graden, DryJect aerations plus frequent sand topdressing truly made the difference in surface firmness and a successful 2019. We at Grounds are thankful for your support and are encouraged by the many kind words, smiles and interactions witnessed on a daily basis. Not only agronomic support, but the kindness and genuine sincerity expressed on a human level by all our Membership meant so much to so many whom have been affected by family loss and personal challenges.Jayson Griffiths, Golf Course Superintendent - jgriffiths@londonhuntclub.comGrounds ReportThe proverbial winter weather questions arise at this time of year; “Will El Nino replace La Nina?”, “Does the heavy pinecone set, and acorn drop 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 are implementing again this fall to strengthen the plants to help mitigate any potential turf loss has begun. The past 5 winters, prior to freeze-up, the drilling of 36 vertical drainage chimneys and multiple temporary collar dam removals on the greens has improved surface drainage across the greens during freeze/thaw cycles. Upon course closure, a final sand topdressing has been applied to protect the crowns from drying winds; including the use of perforated Geotextiles. These covers do not protect against ice-encasement; however, they do provide some temperature mitigation during open winters and spring transitions, more importantly; they provide a thin barrier for access and manual removal of snow and ice during critical times.Winter is perceived to be “down time” by many; for golf course superintendents in cold climates, much like baseball and football players and coaches, the season never really ends. In reality; the largest gains in golf course improvements can be achieved in the off-season. A famous coach once said, “if you take an off-season, you will have an off-season.” Humor aside, winter is a time to reflect, to enjoy the successes of a season’s past and to prepare for the next. More importantly, it is a time to enjoy the peaceful serenity of the London Hunt and Country Club and to celebrate the company of family and friends over the Holiday and winter season.The following list of activities and projects does not encompass all that can be performed during the winter months, but rather provides an understanding of what winter golf course maintenance entails.
16WINTER 2019/2020• Snow removal from parking lots and roads• Monitoring of snow and ice on greens for potential removal• On course, winter pathway clearing and ski trail maintenance• Continuing education, regional seminars, turf grass conferences and recertification workshops• Tree health care, pruning, undergrowth and maintenance programs• Annual equipment preventative maintenance and repairs (>100 pieces of equipment, >50 reels to grind)• Maintenance facility improvements• Golf course accessory refurbishment• Team planning, building and recruitment• Integrated Pest Management data collection, water use records and reporting• Trap and Skeet (58 shoots, >130,000 clay targets consumed)As we progress into December and the Holiday Season, there are many Grounds Team Members who work tirelessly behind the scenes in making each day on the course an enjoyable one. Our Equipment Manager, Mark McCallum, keeps the equipment fleet running and in top form to produce the quality of cut and conditions we have come to expect. Assistants, Deb Dale and Brent McDougall, deserve much credit as they continue to invest themselves not only in the success of the golf course, but the success and well-being of 30+ seasonal employees who come together daily to prepare an incredible property for a historic game.In the spirit of Christmas, we are covered in a fresh blanket of powdered snow. The winter wonderland that presents itself is another opportunity to walk and enjoy this beautiful landscape. Winter walking, skiing and snow-shoeing trails will again be marked, including the addition of a few special, in-house, hand crafted benches where one can rest and enjoy nature’s surroundings. We look forward to seeing Members and families enjoying the property this winter season and the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2020.Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and your family!Jane SmithMarch 15, 1926 - October 23, 2019In MemoriamHugh EdgarJanuary 13,1934 - September 21, 2019Howard CameronApril 2, 1921 - September 4, 2019
17WINTER 2019/2020Adam Baranowski, Director of Tennis - abaranowski@londonhuntclub.comPickleballIt still involves a court and a net.Now that the season has officially come to a close I have time to reflect on this past season. How did it go? What worked, what didn’t, how can I make it better? Opportunities to strive, improve and evolve are always on my mind. If you are satisfied with what you have and what you accomplished then you will stay in the same place, and that sometimes means moving backwards. For that reason, I always look to put myself in a position to improve as a Tennis Director. This is why I enroll in tennis conferences and workshops each year. Recently I had the opportunity to attend one that was unlike any other, it was specifically geared towards Directors of Tennis. The agenda for the three-day conference included interesting topics such as Investing in Your Club, Tennis Needs Technology, Creating Club Culture, Neuromuscular Balancing, Building Leadership Skills and Starting a Pickleball Program.When I received the agenda one topic stood out from the rest: PICKLEBALL, currently the fastest growing sport in North America. Pickleball has had a 650 percent increase in numbers over the last six years, according to the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA). The biggest part of the growth is not in the over-60 crowd, but rather with a much younger demographic. Many municipalities and parks and recreation departments are putting up courts, making it accessible to people of all ages.Many of you may ask what is pickleball?For the amateurs, pickleball is something of a mix between racquetball, tennis, and table tennis. Players use special paddles and a whiffle ball, and games take place on tennis courts with specific pickleball lines. Also, the mental game and strategy that comes with it is like playing chess on the miniature tennis court. Nets and court sizes are smaller than tennis, and the most common game is doubles, although singles is also an option. It has its own set of unusual rules, one of them is to stay out of the “kitchen”, but it is actually very easy to learn.It’s a quick game, making it a great way to get in some exercise. In a typical league games run only 15 minutes each time. It seems TIME or lack of it is the common theme these days. Getting in as little or as much as you want. Some players that wear fitness trackers have said that in two hours they have walked the equivalent of four miles so if you’re playing doubles you can still get a good workout without killing yourself.It also helps to know that pickleball is very economical and it requires minimal gear making it accessible to all. A novice player can pick up a basic wooden paddle and balls for under $30. If a player is more advanced, he/she can spend hundreds of dollars for composite paddles. The access to many municipal courts is free, and even the league play is relatively inexpensive when compared to other racquet sports.Most pickleball games are played on retrofitted tennis courts. It’s a quick and easy transition for a parks and recreation department to get the game up and running. A few portable nets and some tape then you’re good to go.All these factors are contributing to the rapid growth of the sport. A couple of years ago if you had asked me what pickleball was, I wouldn’t have been able to tell you, but now it seems to be everywhere. Who knows, perhaps it will be here at our Club before you know it!
18WINTER 2019/2020
LONDON HUNT AND COUNTRY CLUB MEMBERSHIPThe Club’s distinction as one of the finest in Canada inspires us to endlessly create an experience beyond all expectations. Now consider, how do you enjoy your Membership? On the course, on the courts, shooting, entertaining, dining? 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.GROUP INCENTIVE PLANEnjoy a $5000 credit, per applicant, to your entrance fee when you apply as a group of three or more at the same time - contact us today to learn more!Brandie CooperMembership and Communications Manager519-471-2523 extension 213bcooper@londonhuntclub.com
Brandie Cooper, Membership and Communications Manager - bcooper@londonhuntclub.comFor as long as I could remember I had wanted a family dog. Unfortunately, last Christmas when I had brought up the idea of adding a puppy to our family my husband had given me a flat no. As a relatively optimistic individual I proceeded to pull out all the items I had already purchased for our holiday pet. A simple black crate, a red bed with an adorable white bone pattern, matching cannisters for treats and food, copper dishes, an HBC stripes leash and collar set, and little red tie for Christmas morning – who could say no to all that cuteness? I was sure, if anyone could see reason beyond cuteness it was my husband. But then, when he didn’t say yes but didn’t say no, there it was, an opening, a Christmas Miracle.I held on to that not a yes but not a no and researched various dog breeds. I put in applications to adopt, replied to ads and put my name on wait lists but nothing came of it. Then in June, I came across a golden pup with a white chest and paws, and big brown eyes. They say when you meet the one you just know. I sent my husband a picture, like I had dozens of times before, expecting him to dismess the message. But this time he replied, not a yes but not a no. I think he also knew this puppy was meant for us.Brady is now 8 months old. He has learned how to ring a bell to go outside, how to shake a paw, play in the park and come when called, and lie down and stay. More importantly, he has taught me that patience is rewarded, the little things in life matter most, and that if you can be someone’s world you should. This holiday season try to be patient when things get hectic. Make time to enjoy the little things. And remember, there are so many people who don’t have anyone so when you can, enjoy being someone’s world.Happy Holidays.Man’s Best Friend20WINTER 2019/2020
21WINTER 2019/2020Trap and Skeet ReportAndrew Johnson, Trap and Skeet Committee Chair - Andrew.Johnson@cushwakeswo.comAs we welcomed another successful start to the Trap and Skeet shooting season, we thank everyone who attended our annual New Shooter’s Day on October 12. Over recent weeks, many Members have come out to experience the newly renovated Trap and Skeet Chalet. We encourage all Members to stop by and see the wonderful transformation.On October 19, the annual Sue Thompson Centennial Shoot was held. This event is largely considered to be the official opening of the season and marks the commencement of formal competition. This event was named after Sue Thompson who was a fixture with the Trap and Skeet section for many years. Sue’s daughter, Louise Belton and her family, have sponsored this successful event since the Hunt Club’s Centennial. Thank you to all who attended this year.The winners of the Sue Thompson Centennial Shoot include:High Gun New Shooter –Thomas Belton High Lady – Karen DaviesHigh Gun Runner Up – Andrew JohnsonHigh Gun – Greg CarrOn behalf of the Trap and Skeet Committee along with all Club Members, we would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Paul Skinner for donating a trap gun to the Trap and Skeet section. Your generosity and support are greatly appreciated. We look forward to seeing new faces this season! Please come and join us at the Trap Chalet on Wednesdays from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. through to the end of April 2020.Introducing the Club Social TableAre you single or a couple looking to join other Members in a social atmosphere? For future Club events, we will put together a table for just this purpose. Just indicate your desire to join this table when making your reservation.We hope to see you there!Club Social Table
DECEMBERMEN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY I December 4The ultimate night out with the boys at the Club thisseason.WOMEN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY I December 5It’s girls night out and the perfect opportunity tocelebrate the season.GINGERBREAD COMPETITION I December 8Attention all bakers and gingerbread lovers! Here’syour chance to show your creativity and have some fun!CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS I December 15Celebrate with Santa on Sunday, December 15.Seating times at 10:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m.,2:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.OFFICE CHRISTMAS LUNCH I December 19,20Exceptional buffet offerings to live music set thestage for a casual holiday get together.VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS I December 23Christmas in Victorian times focused heavily on food and family and this event is no exception.NEW YEAR’S DINNER I December 31Enjoy a New Year’s Eve feature menu to live musicwhile the kids enjoy a ball drop and their own dinner party. HOLIDAY HOURS OF OPERATIONDecember 23 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.Victorian Christmas in the Ballroom, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.December 24 Club closedDecember 25 Club closedDecember 26 Club closedM.E. Howe Boxing Day Shoot at the Trap Chalet 10:00 a.m.December 27 to December 30 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. December 31 5:00 p.m. New Years Eve Dinner, no lunch serviceThe holiday season will be here before you know it, and there's still time to book your Christmas party here at the Club!Whether it's with friends, family, co-workers or social clubs, the London Hunt and Country Club can cater to all your holidayneeds. Please contact Ginny Leyten toinquire about space.22WINTER 2019/2020EVENTS AT A GLANCE
JANUARYKIDS EAT FREE I Tuesdays in January, February and MarchKids eat free at the Club in January, February and March on Tuesdays. One kids meal for each entrée purchased.FREE WINE CORKAGE I Wednesdays and Thursdays in January, February and MarchEnjoy free corkage on Wednesdays and Thursdays in January, February and March with the purchase of an entrée.FITNESS HUNT TALKS SPEAKER SERIES I January 22Three guest speakers will discuss three topics; therapeutic uses for marijuana by Dr. Sequeira, sports injuries in our children by Dr. Litchfield, and how to balance fitness and nutrition to maximize results by Holistic Nutritionist and Personal Trainer Denise Lalonde in a Ted Talks format.ROBBIE BURNS FEATURE I January 25Celebrate Robbie Burns Day with a special table d'hote menu.DOG DAYS OF WINTER I January 26Enjoy the grounds with fellow Members and man’s best friend!FEBRUARYDOG DAYS OF WINTER I February 16Enjoy the grounds with fellow Members and man’s best friend!STEVE TRACY PAINT NIGHTS I February 12, 19, and 26Unleash your creative spirit under the guidance of internationally collected artist Steve Tracy.VALENTINE’S DAY I February 14, 15Treat your Valentine to dinner and live music. JANUARY HOURS OF OPERATIONClubhouseEntire Club Closed: January 1, 5, 12Mondays: Clubhouse closes at 3:00 p.m.Food and Beverage ServiceClosed: January 1 to 15Mondays: ClosedTuesdays: Glenmore closedTuesday to Friday: Begins at 11:00 a.m.Saturday and Sunday: Begins at 9:00 a.m.Fitness CentreBefore January 15January 2 and 3, 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.January 4 and 11, 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.January 6 and 13, 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.January 7 to 10, 14 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.January 5 and 12 ClosedAfter January 15Mondays: Closes at 3:00 p.m.Tuesday to Sunday: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.23WINTER 2019/2020EVENTS AT A GLANCE
did you know......in the famous children’s story The Polar Express, the train depicted travels from Grand Rapids, Michigan, through the boreal forests, to the North Pole? This journey happens over night in the story but would take over 30 hours in real life. To calculate this, use the formula time=distance/speedall aboardQ: When does a rabbit go exactly as fast as a train?A: When it’s a passenger on the train.Q: How do you find a missing train?A: Follow the tracksJUST4JUNIORSLONDON HUNT AND COUNTRY CLUB
The Trans-Siberian Railway is a network of railways connecting Moscow with the Russian Far East. With a length of 9,289 kilometres (5,772 miles), from Moscow to Vladivostok, it is the longest railway line in the world. There are connecting branch lines into Mongolia, China and North Korea. It has connected Moscow with Vladivostok since 1916 and is still being expanded. It was built between 1891 and 1916 under the supervision of Russian government ministers personally appointed by Tsar Alexander III and his son, the Tsarevich Nicholas (later Tsar Nicholas II). Even before it had been completed, it attracted travellers who wrote of their adventureswinter railroadsawesome movieswith trainsChhatrapati ShivajiMaharaj TerminusMumbai, IndiaGrand CentralStationNew York, USAPeru RailCusco, PeruBlue TrainCape Town, South AfricaLeningradsky StationMoscow, RussiaGare du Nord StationParis, France
LONDON HUNT AND COUNTRY CLUBa different soup every day, all winter longSOUP OF THE DAY
ISSUE TWENTY WINTER 2019/2020INSIDEWORLD HANDICAP SYSTEM60 SECONDS WITH...HEALTHY HOLIDAY ALTERNATIVESMAN’S BEST FRIENDCLUB LIFEmagazineLONDON HUNT AND COUNTRY CLUB