Goodwood, widely acclaimed as one of the most inventive and ground-breaking golf clubs in the UK is acknowledging the importance of “man’s best friend” by offering a unique and exclusive membership category for dogs.
The Kennels Dog Membership has been established at the 36 hole venue for all breeds and every canine membership subscription is donated to the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home which cares for more than 10,000 less fortunate animals each year.
More than 40 owners and their canine companions have eagerly signed up for the one off £50 membership, and benefits include a personalised dog bowl, tasty but healthy treats on request, clubhouse access when accompanied by owner and seasonal walk maps round the 12,000 acre Goodwood estate.
More importantly, there are no long waiting lists or formal interviews required or a strict dress code, just a request from the management to “paws for thought” and ensure best behaviour at all times and to refrain from drooling, barking, chewing furniture and chatting noisily to other members, human or canine.
Andrew C Grahame, Venues Managing Director for Goodwood said: “We just thought it would be a bit quirky and fun and on a more practical note, many of our members are dog owners so why not give them the opportunity to spend more time at the 19th hole and utilise the estate for their daily dog walks rather than rushing home.”
Elsewhere, despite the economic down turn, Goodwood’s credit membership launched in 2006 is still proving popular to new members. This appealing form of “pay as you go” golf starts from just £370 with 25 credits which can be used on either course. The concept is simple, as a member of Golf At Goodwood, you will only have to pay for the amount of golf you want when you want it and new members will also receive two tickets to the Festival of Speed and discount of food and beverage at The Goodwood Hotel.
Goodwood is a privately owned 12,000 acre estate set in the heart of West Sussex. It has been the home to the Duke of Richmond and family for over 300 years. There are two outstanding 18 hole courses at Goodwood – the historic James Braid designed Downs Course which is available to members, their guests and corporate guests and the Park Course designed by Donald Steel which operates as a “visitor golf” venue open to all golfers paying a green fee.
The clubhouse known as “The Kennels” is a stunning 18th century Grade I* listed building with lavish locker rooms with a full attendant service, a drawing room, bar and dining room offering fine dining. Woody buggies and Ralph Lauren’s first ever flagship golf store in Europe complete the comprehensive golf facilities at Goodwood.
Goodwood www.goodwood.com