Surbiton's History Comes Alive At Grass-Court Challenger

Founded in 1881, the Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club’s rich history permeates throughout this week’s ATP Challenger Tour event here, providing a genteel and traditional setting that the players overwhelmingly appreciate.

Located 15 minutes from central London, the club has become a popular attraction with more than 1,500 members. The members can enjoy amenities including 20 tennis courts (11 grass, three clay and six hard, two of which are covered for indoor play), a gym and a bar/lounge area, or simply congregate in the club’s main pavilion that was built in 1900.

They can also take in world-class tennis at this week’s $50,000 event. Some of the members have even offered to donate their time to ensure the tournament runs smoothly.

“We have around 80-100 volunteers do jobs at the event, including stewarding, driving and supporting the tournament in all aspects,” said Roy Staniland, director of the Surbiton Racket & Fitness Club for the past 30 years. “Some put up players in their own houses and really embrace the event. The members are very proud that their club is hosting such a prestigious tournament.”

The club first held its ATP Challenger Tour event in 1998 and ran it for 11 consecutive years, with past champions including Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Mardy Fish. After a seven-year absence, it returned to the calendar this year and established itself as one of the toughest $50,000 events this season. Five players in the draw are ranked inside the Top 100 of the Emirates ATP Rankings, including top seed and local favourite Daniel Evans.

“It’s good to be playing at home and being around the other British boys,” said Evans. “The club has a traditional English feel to it and it’s nice that there’s a lot of people here watching.”

Far more planning was devoted to organising the tournament this year than when it first launched. Preparations began 10 to 11 months away from when the first ball was hit and two weeks were devoted to building the venue out to accommodate spectators, compared to the three-day build in the tournament’s first year.

“Since the London Olympics, there are a lot more sporting events taking place,” explained Staniland. “We need to make sure we’ve got the right equipment, marquees and stands well ahead of time to ensure we have a good fan experience. I’ve seen a lot of changes at the club and a major upgrade of the facilities.”

With Surbiton back as an ATP Challenger Tour special for the foreseeable future, ATP Vice President of Player Relations and former doubles player Ross Hutchins said the hope is to continue drawing more fans each year while continuing to host a quality field.

“Growing up as a British tennis player, the summer grass court season has such prominence in the tennis calendar,” said Hutchins. “Being in London always has and still attracts such strong players. The feel of the club is very unique and the fans are close to the action. And for the players, the traditional feel of the club makes them feel like they are part of the history of tennis.”