ON COURT WITH CLIFF DRYSDALE: TENNIS STAY-CATIONS

THERE’S A GETAWAY NEAR YOU

THE WORLD OF TRAVEL came to a standstill this spring, with the COVID-19 pandemic coming down hard on just about every recreation industry. But as time passes and the world adjusts to a new normal, it’s clear that being outside and naturally social distancing can allow people to enjoy some of their favorite activities. Hearing from epidemiologists, health experts, and local governments alike, it’s clear that tennis is positioned to be one of the safest and most active sports to enjoy. And you just might get a chance for that summer getaway.

It’s a moment for tennis clubs around the nation to embrace a population that is desperate to get out of the house and enjoy the summer weather. With additional precautions such as marking initials on your own set of tennis balls as well as not sharing benches, both singles and doubles are great options for all ages.

“Our sport is conducive to social distancing,” the USTA’s CEO and executive director Michael Dowse said in a phone interview. “Health and safety are paramount and tennis comes second, but once that first box is checked and it’s deemed safe, it’s the perfect sport for all of us to participate in coming out of this pandemic.”

While going out to your local courts and playing is a great option, we recommend taking a group lesson with a tennis professional so that you can learn the fundamentals and actually enjoy the sport a little more when you do want to play a match. Learning the key rally skills will make your tennis experience much more enjoyable.

AT CLIFF DRYSDALE TENNIS, we’re taking it one step further for everyone looking to enjoy a weekend getaway or a family vacation. All Cliff Drysdale Tennis resort locations are offering specialized “Staycations” for travelers within driving distance to enjoy a first-class tennis camp experience. Whether you’re an experienced player or just getting into the game, our pros will create a schedule that helps you improve, as well as get a great workout.

“We know people are starved for a few days of new scenery and change of pace from the monotony of the past few months,” said Scott Colebourne, chief operating officer at Cliff Drysdale Tennis. “Our tennis staycations not only give a sense of escape and relaxation, but also a customized program that gives players exactly what they’re looking for.”

By cutting out the air travel, you’re saving time and money. Whether you’re right next door to a resort or a few hours’ drive, getting back to the classic drive-in vacation is something for everyone to enjoy. Remove the stress of being too far away from home, but enjoy the serenity of a luxury resort destination.

These camps come pre-packaged with luxury accommodations as well as private and semi-private instruction. Finish the day with a doubles match arranged by the pro shop and you’ll be heading to dinner hungry and ready for more the next day. The Cliff Drysdale Tennis team of travel experts will help you put together the perfect itinerary. Want to get a round of golf in? We’ve got you covered. Need to unwind at the spa after hours on the court? No worries. We can even help get you a dinner reservation before spots fill up! Our packages help you get discounted rates on many of our resorts’ great amenities.

A handful of luxury resort locations across the U.S. are offering tennis staycations, including the Omni Amelia Island Plantation, Omni La Costa Resort and Spa, Chateau Elan Winery and Resort, the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami, Inn at Perry Cabin, and the newly acquired Ritz-Carlton Santa Barbara.

“I take a lot of pride in the quality of our tennis professional at every single location worldwide,” said Don Henderson, CEO of Cliff Drysdale Tennis. “If you choose to visit any of these resorts, you will not be disappointed. Our pros bring a positive energy to each session that wears off on our players in the best way possible.”

Check out the August/September 2020 Edition of Troon Privé Magazine