A new broom is sweeping through the Ridge Park Sports Club in Towerby and by all accounts it seems to be an uplifting change.
Alberton businessman Peter Müller recently bought the club from its members when it became clear that the club is going through tough times and may be left with no option but to close its doors.
“It would have been a shame to let that happen,” said Peter.
“It not only boasts well-manicured bowling greens, but also tennis courts and a beautiful old clubhouse that has been declared a heritage site. There is just so much history to be found here, I couldn’t let it go.”
The club as it stands today is an amalgamation of the old Rand Postals Bowling Club which was situated in Springfield at the time and the Commercial Tennis Club near the Hector Norris Park.
In 1952, shortly after World War II, the two clubs bought the ground in Towerby, made their move and in 1958 amalgamated and changed the club’s name to Ridge Park Sports Club.
While the bowling greens and tennis courts attracted sport enthusiasts, The Jock Davidson Tavern most certainly formed the heart and soul of the clubhouse. Peter has every intention to keep the feel and ambience of this pub, where you will find many replicas sailors brought back home after the war ended in the late 1940s.
Though all of its members have now moved to other bowling clubs in the area, they all seem to remain loyal to their old playground. According to Allan Sinclair, former chairperson of the club’s bowls committee, the old members would love nothing more to than to see and hear the camaraderie and fun return to this club.
Though no formal club competitions will be played, Peter has initiated a social membership scheme which will enable the holder of such membership discounts on food, drinks and social bowls and tennis games.
“We are going to institute various fun events and fun games, ranging from businesses challenging each other on the bowling greens to our Where’s Wally pub evenings to be held every first Saturday of the month.”
The kitchen is undergoing a complete revamp, allowing for the venue which can seat up to 120 guests to be hired for any celebration, conference or meeting.
“I really want to allow for our members and visitors to enjoy a memorable experience, and we always welcome any feedback,” said Peter.
“Our first pub night will be held on November 21 at the club in George Mann Street, Towerby, from 5.30pm onwards. Great prizes are up for grabs if you can find Wally, while eats and drinks will be on sale as well as live entertainment to keep the fun going,” said Peter.
If you want to book a social bowl or tennis game, or require further information on the club’s facilities, contact Brenda on 082 336 4574.
