theclaycourts @ Singapore

GENERAL INFORMATION

Way back in the 1930’s when Alexandra Park was established as an area of colonial housing the British Forces Overseas, The Claycourts first came into being. Four courts with two washrooms were constructed for the use of the Park residents.

Over the years they gradually fell into disrepair, until in 1994 when Art Hobbs, who was then the Head Tennis Coach at The Singapore American Club, came across them.

He took over the lease on the courts from the Landlord; Premas, a government organisation and Landlord to all tenants living here in Alexandra Park.

Over the next few years, on an extremely tight budget, Art Hobbs renovated the Claycourts entirely.

Having by this time left the American Club, he set up his business as Art’s Pro Tennis Services at the Claycourts towards the end of 1998.

They are the only true Clay Courts in Singapore, and are therefore often in demand from professional tennis players on tour in Singapore and in need of practice on Clay.

Clay is also a very kind surface to knee joints, and therefore popular for this reason to many of the more senior regulars to the Courts.

Younger players love the surface too, as it is ideal for sliding and skidding during play!

At present the Claycourts are 'Open to All’. Courts can be booked during weekdays and weekends for social purposes. A wide range of lessons and clinics for adults and children run every weekday and throughout the weekend.

Friendly Tennis Socials and Tournaments are held on a regular basis.

It is envisaged that the Claycourts could become a Private Club in the future.

However at present the next development will be the introduction of Flood Lighting to at least two of the four courts.

There is currently no mains electricity to the courts. A generator supplies electricity for the lights and ceiling fans to the Atap and washrooms.

Flood lighting would bring so much more life and playing hours to the Claycourts, and any profits from current events are being set aside for this long overdue development.

Fundraising events are also being planned to help this latest project.