The first event of its kind in the UK, we were honoured to be able to host the Alfred Dunhill Padel Classic, which took place at the Club on Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 May, organised by Tony Dutton on behalf of Hurlingham. Members and their guests were delighted to watch and mingle with many celebrities including cricketer, Andrew Strauss, extreme sportsperson and mountaineer, Annabelle Bond and tennis coach and broadcaster, Judy Murray, among many other sporting legends, who branched out from their usual pursuits to join in on the padel action.

Spectators were also treated to top notch padel from players such as two former UK LTA Padel Tour No 1, Javi Serrats and John Leach, as well as current UK No 5, Alfonso Patacho.

However, probably the most entertaining match to watch was one with the ladies. Four current UK Padel team players, including No1, Tia Norton, played out a three-set thriller, to the delight of all.

The event’s primary role was to raise support for two incredible charities, Laureus Sport for Good – with an ever-present and entertaining Bryan Habana as brand ambassador present on and off court throughout the event – and our very own Hurlingham Foundation. Both benefitted hugely from the event.

IT’S NOT JUST IN THE GAME

Many of you will have already noticed some new additions to the courts and surrounding areas. As well as our very own water fountain beside the bicycle rack, we now have a smart panelled railing running along the edge of the raised pathway beside the padel courts.

In line with the Club’s health and safety responsibilities, we have had to accept the directive to mitigate against the potential fall hazard. So, we have chosen the clean character of steel and glass to fit into the theme of what is, in essence, the main design components of a padel court.

These new additions provide a perfect viewing zone for spectators with a rail to lean against, and a much-needed facility for water bottle replenishment. The more eagled-eyed will have also spotted a brand-new set of squeegees for each of our three courts, just in time for our typical spring/summer. You will find them perfectly suited to the removal of dew from the glass panels, particularly in the morning or after a rain shower. There should be two squeegees per court.

SAVERIO CAMPIONE, CHAIR, PADEL