12 TRANSFORMATIVE YEARS Thank You, Mr President
MUSIC AND MOONLIGHT Swiss National Day Celebrations
FANTASTIC FINALE
Swiss School’s Summer Night Event
GOOD SPORTS AND GREAT WORKOUTS
From Padel to Mountain Biking
SAVOUR YOUR SUNDAYS Our New International Buffet
SWI S S CLU B, TH E H O M E FO R ALL NATI O NAL ITI ES
S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 017 I S S U E
SWISS CLUB
FROM THE EDITOR Dear Members, What a treat it was to attend the annual Swiss National Day celebrations at the Swiss Club. The weather was perfect, the turnout was great, and every little detail went according to plan. The welcome wine, courtesy of the Swiss Embassy, was chilled to perfection. The dreamy voice of Claudio Danuser singing the Swiss national anthem, floating though the balmy night air, was unforgettable. I felt so privileged to be a part of this annual event once again. Congratulations to the planning team on a meticulously organised and briliantly executed event. As per tradition, the National Day party is seen as something of a prelude to the ‘big bang’ of the Swiss Club’s legendary Oktoberfest. Drag out your dirndls and lederhosen and book your tickets for the party of the year, if you haven’t already done so. Having been present at the past two years’ Oktoberfests, I can honestly say that I have
C
never seen revelry on such a grand scale!
M
Y
Not to put a dampener on the festivities, but heavy-duty beer drinking requires a heavy-duty fitness regime in order
CM
to counter the inevitable side-effects. In this issue, you
MY
can find out more about some of the many diverse sports available to Members, namely padel and mountain biking.
CY
CMY
Hit the court or hop on the saddle – getting fit may be
K
difficult, but feeling fit is addictive! (I vaguely remember the feeling…) No doubt there will be much news to share next issue, in the aftermath of the Club’s Annual General Meeting. At the risk of stating the obvious, the times are changing. The Club’s President of the last 12 years, Mr Martin Silberstein, is stepping down. It is sad, but inevitable, as nothing in this world stays the same forever. And in reality, our dear outgoing President has given a huge chunk of his life to the Club. Read about some of the highlights of his long term on Page 12 of this issue. Thanks for reading RELAX – and see you at Oktoberfest!
Suzanne Editor, RELAX
3
SWISS CLUB
CLUB MANAGEMENT, STAFF AND RESERVATIONS CLUB
ADMIN & HR
Carsten Kjeldmann, General Manager E: carsten.kjeldmann@swissclub.org.sg
Joey Chaw, Office Manager E: joey.chaw@swissclub.org.sg / careers@swissclub.org.sg
DID: 6591 9421
DID: 6591 9422
MEMBERSHIP
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Serene Yee, Member Relations Manager E: serene.yee@swissclub.org.sg
Aaron Lim, F&B Operations Service Manager E: aaron.lim@swissclub.org.sg
DID: 6591 9426
DID: 6591 9457
FINANCE
Adrian Vogt, Executive Chef E: adrian.vogt@swissclub.org.sg
Lydia Zhai, Chief Accountant E: lydia.zhai@swissclub.org.sg
DID: 6591 9428
DID: 6591 9450
FACILITIES & MAINTENANCE
MARKETING & EVENTS
Ko Mun Wong, Facilities Manager E: komun.wong@swissclub.org.sg
Paulina Halim, Acting Marketing & Events Manager E: paulina.halim@swissclub.org.sg
DID: 6591 9457
DID: 6591 9430
SPORTS & RECREATION
Kumar Samy, Grounds & Housekeeping Manager E: samy.kumar@swissclub.org.sg
Members Relations E: recept@swissclub.org.sg
DID: 6591 9451
DID 6591 9420
THE GUESTHOUSE ROOM RESERVATIONS E: theguesthouse@swissclub.org.sg T: 6591 9420
DINING RESERVATIONS E: recept@swissclub.org.sg T: 6591 9420 F: 6591 9452
COMMITTEE
René Cotting Deputy President
E: deputypres@swissclub.org.sg
Markus Blattmann Treasurer
E: treasurer@swissclub.org.sg
Patrick Regamey Secretary
E: secretary@swissclub.org.sg
MEMBERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
4
Gerda Gehrig (RELAX Magazine) E: gerda.gehrig@swissclub.org.sg
Max Schweizer (Buildings & Infrastructure) E: max.schweizer@swissclub.org.sg
Daniel Mueller (Sports) E: daniel.mueller@swissclub.org.sg
Adrian Jacklowsky (Marketing) E: adrian.jacklowsky@swissclub.org.sg
Felix Kobel E: felix.kobel@swissclub.org.sg Anantha Ayer E: anantha.ayer@swissclub.org.sg
DINING
5
INSIDE THIS ISSUE GENERAL
3 4 7 8 10 10 12 14
From the Editor Club Management, Staff and Reservations A Word from the Committee A Message from the General Manager Welcomes and Farewells Opening Hours Thank You, Mr President… Please, Treat Our Club Like Your Home
DINING 16 Wine, Dine and Unwind in September and October 18 19 20 22 23 24
SPORTS Farewell, Summer – Hello Again, Tennis Padel Tutorial: The Chiquita, Explained Swiss Club Kidz Shine in National ZDK Karate Belt Gradings Mountain Biking… in Singapore? Yes, You Can! German-Swiss Golf Club Competition Schedule Swiss Club Staff Are Superstars!
EVENTS 26 A Night of Happiness and ‘Swissness’ 28 Oh, What a Night! Summer Night Event – Snapshots of the Past INTEREST 29 Fall Events: The Golden Jubilee Continues 30 A Choral Performance 900 Years in the Making 32 The Kobel Family at ‘Home’ 34 Meet a Staffer: Why Kogila Crosses the Causeway 36 Last Word 36 Congratulations to the Winners of Our ‘Voices of the Amazon’ Contest 37 Fitness, Friends, Fun! Programme of Activities in September and October
RELAX is edited and designed by SPEcial Pte Ltd. Suzanne, Copy E: suzy@spe-cial.com
T: (65) 9820 9520
Pam, Liaison
E: pam@spe-cial.com
T: (65) 9871 0666
Edwin, Art
E: edwin@spe-cial.com
T: (65) 8500 2975
swissclub.org.sg
@swissclubsingapore
MCI (P) No. 019/03/2017
/swissclubsingapore
@SwissClubSing
I N V I TAT I O N The Swiss Club Singapore Invites You to Attend its
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2017 25 September, 7pm Pavilion, Swiss Club Singapore
All Swiss Club Members are cordially invited and encouraged to attend this important gathering of stakeholders. Matters of interest will be shared, and your input will be welcomed.
SWISS CLUB
A WORD FROM THE COMMITTEE
Dear Fellow Club Members, I am happy to see you all back at the Swiss Club after a long holiday break. I hope everyone enjoyed some time off and had the opportunity to take some well-deserved holidays. I would like to extend a warm welcome to all new Club Members – I hope you will enjoy your time at the Club and meet many new people.
The AGM is the most important statutory event of the Swiss Club, and offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about the Club’s ongoing initiatives, finances and challenges.
We have just had the first highlight of the new Club year with the traditional Swiss National Day party on 5 August. More than 500 people enjoyed a fantastic event with many smiling faces, great food, drinks and music. Special thanks go to the Swiss Embassy for sponsoring the Apero, and to the Swiss Club staff for making it such a wonderful event! The famous Oktoberfest is fast approaching, followed by our Annual General Meeting on 25 September 2017. Please mark your calendar accordingly. You will receive an invitation with the agenda, separately. The AGM is the most important statutory event of the Swiss Club, and offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about the Club’s ongoing initiatives, finances and challenges. This year’s AGM also represents an important juncture in the Swiss Club’s history, as our long-serving President Mr Martin Silberstein stepped down at the end of the 2016/2017 financial year on 30 June. Five more existing Committee members have decided not to stand for re-election at this AGM, leaving plenty of room for fresh faces. The election of the new Committee members will
set the direction for the Swiss Club’s development over the next few years. The financial year 2016/2017 ended with an operational loss (excluding the proceeds of the land sale). This negative result was primarily driven by a significant decrease in revenue from Entrance Fees. Our membership base has been further eroded during the financial year, decreasing from 1387 members at the end of June 2016 to 1276 members at the end of June 2017. Not only has the Club attracted slightly fewer new Members, we have also had more Members leaving. Moreover, entrance fees declined roughly by 30%, as more new Members opted for Term rather than Ordinary/Associate memberships. Therefore the AGM also represents a good opportunity to learn more about the Swiss Club Committee’s plan to turn around the Club’s finances. We look forward to your support at the AGM. I am looking forward to seeing many of you at one of our upcoming events, or simply around the Club! Sincerely yours,
P, Regamey Patrick Regamey Secretary
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SWISS CLUB
A MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER Dear Members, Welcome back – I hope you all had a welldeserved holiday with your loved ones. As I write this message, the Club is again full of life as families are preparing their kids for yet another school term and everyday chores become part of daily routine. Gosh! 2017 is as good as 67% gone, and as we approach the last four months of the year we gear up for the ‘Event of the Year’, with our annual Swiss Club Oktoberfest barely three weeks away. With the final preparations under way, we await with excitement the arrival of our special Oktoberfest Brew, all 8000 litres of it, entertainer and folk singer Andreas Gabalier, and naturally our ‘resident band’ Musikkapelle Partenkirchen, who make the Oktoberfest such a wonderful cultural event. Committee and staff truly look forward to welcome all of you. I hope you have your tickets in hand, as this year’s fest is almost fully booked. Do note: Wednesday to Saturday is for adults only and Sunday is family day. As you may have noticed, the Club has completed a number of projects, which we truly hope will make Club life more comfortable and enjoyable for you and your family. As always, we remain committed to continue creating value- and service-added benefits for our Members. That said, our Aveda Spa is now OPEN (next to the hair salon), so do take advantage of having great professional services at your doorstep. The kids’ playgrounds are next on the agenda, so young and old can have fun in a conducive and safe enjoyment. We have not forgotten you! Over the next three months, the Club has engaged an independent consultant to review the Club’s positioning, facilities and our IT, security and back-of-house
8
(kitchens, offices, storage, staff areas etc.). This is a strategic move aligned with both general and regulatory needs, as mentioned in last month’s edition by Max Schweizer. This will provide the opportunity for the new Committee and management to create ideas with tangible information and ensure the Club remains attractive and compliant when developments or refurbishments commence. Not enough can be said about our outgoing Club President Martin Silberstein and his many achievements that have made the Swiss Club what it is today. Yet again, a heartfelt ‘thank you’ is hereby extended from all management and ground staff for the kind guidance and knowledge that you have generously shared over the years. Also, to those Committee Members who have decided to step down at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM), a big ‘thank you’ for the many topics, discussions and achievements made during your tenure. Last but not least, I hope you keep enjoying the oasis called Swiss Club, which will continue to improve with the ongoing feedback and suggestions of Members. Should you have friends or work colleagues, do point them in our direction and get awarded for being our most valued ambassadors in bringing new people and life to the Club. See you at the Oktoberfest 2017!
Carsten Kjeldmann General Manager carsten.kjeldmann@swissclub.org.sg "Swiss Club, the Home for All Nationalities"
As always, we remain committed to continue creating value- and service-added benefits for our Members.
Traditional Swiss Farmer’s Breakfast Sunday 3 Sept and 1 Oct 2017, 9am to 11am at Arbenz Tuck into a sumptuous spread of hot and cold dishes accompanied by tea, coffee and fresh juices. Bring a hearty appetite!
Members – $35 Non-members – $45 Children – $18 (5 – 12 years old)
RSVP by 28 Aug and 25 Sept 2017 | Visit bit.ly/ SCzmorge17 or scan the QR code to RSVP now!
OPENING HOURS CLUB PREMISES
THE GUESTHOUSE/RECEPTION
Daily: 07:00 – Midnight
T: 6591 9420 Daily: 10:00 – 20:00
For restaurant reservations, please call 6591 9420 between 10:00 – 20:00. After office hours, please call 6591 9431.
DINING OUTLETS ARBENZ T: 6591 9424 Closed on Mon and Tue Lunch: Wed – Sun, 12:00 – 15:00 (Last orders: 14:30) Dinner: Wed – Sun, 18:30 – 23:00 (Last orders: 22:00)
PERGOLA T: 6591 9431 Mon – Sun: 08:00 – 23:00 (breakfast buffet from 08:00, à la carte breakfast from 09:00) (Last food order: 21:45; Last beverage order: 22:30)
Dress Code: Smart attire (E.g.: polo shirt, short or long-sleeved shirt, long trousers, closed shoes) Lunch Sat and All Day Sun: Casual attire (no singlets, slippers, sports attire or swimsuits)
SPORTS FACILITIES Daily Tennis Court Football Field Leisure Pool Gym Multicourt
07:00 – 23:00 07:00 – 22:30* 07:00 – 22:00 07:00 – 22:30 07:00 – 23:00
Mon – Fri Lap Pool Sports Hall
TANDOORI CORNER T: 6591 9431 Mon – Tue: Closed Lunch: Wed – Sun, 11:30 – 15:00 (Last order: 14:30) Dinner: Wed – Sun, 18:00 – 21:45 (Last order: 21:30) JUNGLE BAR Fri – Sun: 10:00 – 22:00 Mon – Thu: Closed (open for banquet and sport events only) (Last food order: 21:45; Last beverage order: 22:00)
06:00 – 22:00 18:00 – 22:00
*Can be booked for exclusive usage
Weekends, Public and GESS School Holidays Lap Pool 07:00 – 22:00 Sports Hall 07:00 – 22:00** Outlet opening hours are subject to changes. **Fees apply for usage of Sports Hall. Prior booking is required.
9
SWISS CLUB
Welcomes and Farewells The Swiss Club welcomes: Name
Type of Membership
Andy Detaille & Vittoria Volgare-Detaille
Diplomatic
Uma Bohne-Gill & Hendrik Bohne
Associate
Katja Brinkmann
Associate
Andrew & Victoria Ferris
Associate
Gregoire & Sabine Bouzereau
Associate Transferable
Roger & Rosmarie Feuz
Term
Ruediger & Simone Roessler
Term
Chris Waterman
Term
The Swiss Club welcomes back:
Associate
Stefan & Kirstin Fuchs
Associate
Matthew & Belinda Griffiths
Associate
Franz-Josef & Hannelore Kleideitert
Associate
Fred Kleiterp & Noelle Ahlberg-Kleiterp
Associate
Steffen Koch & Tania Idrobo-Koch
Associate
Beate Koehler
Associate
Daniel & Geraldine Koempel
Associate
Joerg Alfred & Marie-Christine Kossich
Associate
John & Julia Marsden
Associate
Kuppusamy Parathasarathy
Associate
Name
Type of Membership
Caroline & Costantino Sambuy
Associate
Oliver Brinkmann
Associate
Chris Schmid & Eliasarah Marzat-Schmid
Associate
Peter R & Ingrid B Seidel
Associate
William Harting & Louise Courtenay
Associate Transferable
Florian Dumas & Dumas-Lim Jeong
Associate Transferable
Reimar Roland Tassilo Friedrich
Associate Transferable
Vincent Lecadre & Constance Culot-Lecadre
Associate Transferable
Alastair & Sally Mcnair Scott
Associate Transferable
Simon & Karen Page
Associate Transferable
The Swiss Club farewells:
10
Laurent & Alekha Fabry
Name
Type of Membership
Sacha Michael & Stefanie Daehler
Ordinary
Andrea Martin Schnoz & Andrea Martina Tschuor-Schnoz
Ordinary
Beat & Marcela Simon
Ordinary
Mirjam Fahrni Spoerri & Adrian Spoerri-Fahrni
Ordinary
Urs Tanner
Ordinary
Gina Wan
Associate Transferable
Reto Marx & Sathya Devi Joyce Marx
Ordinary / Associate
James Hugh & Sarah Laura Jane Woodrow
Associate Transferable
Stephane & Michela Degenne
Associate / Ordinary
Patrick & Katrin Wallach
Swiss Nominee
Warren & Rita Silva Bishop
Associate
Fabrice & Clotilde Denis
Term
Mark & Sarah Britt
Associate
Pedro & Maria Teresa Flames
Term
Gregoire & Caroline Chazeau
Associate
Peter Dalsberg & Tine Lillevang-Dalsberg
Term
Associate
Sebastien & Geraldine Hampartzoumian Katja Sen
Term
Michael Joachim Dreyer & Maren Kraemer-Dreyer
Associate
SWISS CLUB
SOLD OUT SOLD OUT SOLD OUT
11
When Martin Silberstein, together with a few friends, formed a new Swiss Club Committee towards the end of 2005, he probably never expected to become the longestserving President in the Club’s history of almost 150 years.
Tack!
Danke
Terima kasih
Mr President... AN AGENT OF CHANGE Frankly, times were difficult, morale was low, and so were the reserves and the membership count. However, Martin made it his top priority to turn the tables around. New rules and policies were introduced, and management and staff soon aligned themselves with the new initiatives. Rationalisation programmes
All of us at the Swiss Club join together in sincerely thanking Martin for his extraordinary contributions and investment of care, time and hard work over the last 12 years. 12
were implemented to save costs whilst improving service levels, and new menus were created for the Pergola and Arbenz restaurants. Martin spent countless hours at the Club on a daily basis to closely monitor operations and also to familiarise himself with Members’ activities, wants and needs. A series of changes and improvements to the facilities were then
introduced through the Club Manager and the monthly Committee Meetings. DIVIDENDS FOR ALL Soon these efforts showed results and the Club began turning out surpluses. These hard-earned dollars were regularly reinvested in long-delayed repair and maintenance projects. A significant amount went into beautifying the Club for the increasing number of
Members to enjoy. For example, the old soccer pitch was transformed from a potato field into the attractive AstroTurf pitch we enjoy today. It will be even more impressive upon the completion of the refurbishing project, scheduled for later this year. An additional tennis court was created, and the old squash court was replaced with our new and very popular multisports court. Last but not least, with the introduction of padel in early 2014, the first-ever padel court in Southeast Asia was built at the Swiss Club.
Always a gentleman, with much good-natured wit and sometimes biting humour, Martin managed his ‘baby’ with gusto and devotion.
THE MILESTONES MULTIPLY Helming the land sale project, including the setting up of a land fund committee, is yet another milestone in Martin’s long list of achievements. Martin was always representing the Club on the 'outside'. He graced many official occasions on behalf of the Swiss Club, and served as a member of the Ambassador’s Group, which coordinated all Swiss Activities in Singapore (involving the Swiss Club, Swiss School, Swiss Chamber of Commerce and the Swiss Association). THE CONTRIBUTIONS CONTINUE Martin will kindly continue to support the Property Committee in finalising the new lease agreement for the GESS Sportshall. He has also generously
A major investment was the addition of a building to house staff facilities, offices, storage space and 12 guest rooms – The Guesthouse. This accommodation is regularly used by Absent Members and new Arrivals, as well as attendees at conferences held at the Club.
promised to be available for the new President and Committee, should there be any issues arising which may be easier understood and handled by consulting an expert with 12 years of exposure. Martin's tireless and selfless contributions are very much visible and felt today at the Club, not least of all when consulting the rules and other regulatory documents which required regular updating and approval by the authorities. Always a gentleman, with much goodnatured wit and sometimes biting humour, Martin managed his ‘baby’ with gusto and devotion. All of us at the Swiss Club join together in sincerely thanking Martin for his extraordinary contributions and investment of care, time and hard work over the last 12 years. We wish him the very best of health and many more tennis games at the Club!
PAST PRESIDENTS Swiss Federal Councillor, Mr Alain Berset and his wife
2005 – 2017 Martin Silberstein 2004 – 2005 (Oct) Walter Wyler 2003 – 2004 (Oct) Max C. Marcus 2001 – 2003 (Nov) Bernhard Weber 1996 – 1998 (Apr) Ettore Pedroni 1993 – 1996 (Mar) Fritz Bruegger 1990 – 1992 Freddy Grieder 1989 Hans-Rudolf Schaub 1988 Michel Bouverat 1987 Peter A. Wyss 1984 – 1986 Bruno Wildermuth 1983 Paul Ziegler 1982 Martin Bender 1981 Martin Bender 1980 Felix W. Schweizer 1979 U.H. Kunzmann 1978 Hans Naegeli 1977 Peter Nabholz 1976 Dr Kurt Moser 1975 Bernhard Elsener 1974 Hans Spitznagel 1973 Oscar Frei
Martini Hingis, Switzerland’s most famous female tennis player, in Singapore to defend her title at the WTA event
13
Please, Treat Our Club Like Your Home We love that our Members consider the Swiss Club their second home. What we don’t love is how a minority of Members fail to abide by unspoken ‘house rules’. We take this opportunity to gently remind you that small courtesies towards our staff and your fellow Members are much appreciated. TOWELS – TAKE JUST ONE!
LITTER – DON’T!
Please take only one towel, or as few or as many as you need. Once you are finished with them, please drop them into the towel machine.
We have been seeing an increasing number of take-away boxes and food packaging left in the playground during lunchtime. Kindly dispose of your litter thoughtfully. Please note that no outside food is permitted on the Club premises.
PROPERTY – KEEP AN EYE ON IT! We are finding an increasing number of personal possessions on Club premises. Please check that you have all your belongings before leaving the Club. Parents, please keep an eye on your children – especially by the swimming pool, where many misplaced items are regularly found. 14
YOUR GUESTS – PLEASE REGISTER THEM! If you bring guests to the Club over the weekend, please register them at Reception and ensure that payment is made for their usage of Club facilities (excluding restaurants). Above all, continue to enjoy the facilities of the Swiss Club. We look forward to welcoming you and your guests.
Ask about our special rates exclusively for Swiss Club Members!
Call 6265 7664 for an obligation-free quote or visit www.interswift.com.sg
smoothly into place. and everything will fall with INTERSWIFT Make your next move Tired of having your life turned upside down every time you move? Call 6265 7664 for an obligation-free quote or visit www.interswift.com.sg Ask about our special rates exclusively for Swiss Club Members!
DOMESTIC • INTERNATIONAL • COMMERCIAL RELOCATION EXPERTS
DINING
Wine, Dine and Unwind in September and October
The holidays are over, but the holiday mood doesn’t have to end. Enjoy fine or casual dining, far from the concrete jungle – and be serenaded by the crooners of the real jungle (birds, lizards, squirrels and the odd curious monkey). Be it a casual gathering of family and friends, or a formal and special occasion, we look forward to welcoming you! AT PERGOLA
The Big Buffet (every Sunday) What:
A lavish spread of international cuisine, lovingly prepared by our chefs
When: Every Sunday (September & October) 11.30am – 3.00pm How much: $28 per Adult, $15 per child
Picture for illustration only
Taco Loco – Crazy for Soft Shell Tacos!
What: A showcase of sumptuous soft shell tacos with fusion fillings, featuring:
Picture for illustration only
Mushroom and Charred Corn with Guacamole $10.90 Mushrooms, char grilled corn, red cabbage, spiced tomato cubes and guacamole
Beef Brisket with Fruity Salsa $12.90 Slow roast beef brisket, jalapenos, mango, cilantro mayo and crisp shallots
Tandoor Chicken with Nepalese Cucumber Salad $11.90 Tandoor-cooked chicken cubes, Nepalese cucumber salad, sesame, light yogurt
When: 1 – 31 October 2017
Rösti Nights (every Friday) What: When: How much:
Golden-brown Rösti with traditional accompaniments 6pm – 10pm Portion – $16.50 each Free flow – $32.50 per person
Raclette Nights (every Wednesday) What:
Authentic Swiss raclette (grilled cheese scraped from the wheel) with traditional accompaniments
When:
6 – 10pm
How much: Portion – $16.50 each Buffet – $46.50 per person
16
DINING AT ARBENZ
New Menu Coming Soon
Look out for the exciting new menu at Arbenz, featuring old favourites and inventive new dishes, designed to tickle your tastebuds and excite the most jaded of appetites!
New Menu Launches 1 September
Executive Set Lunch What: 2-course Executive Lunch When: Weekdays, 11am – 3pm How much: $26 per person
Picture for illustration only
CLUB-WIDE
Wines of the Month for September and October
What:
Le Caveau Saviesan Fendant 2016
What:
Le Caveau Saviesan Pinot Noir 2016
How much:
$65 per bottle $14 per 150ml glass
How much:
$65 per bottle $14 per 150ml glass
Tasting Notes
Tasting Notes
Take home 6 bottles @ $240 $40 per bottle
Take home 6 bottles @ $270 $45 per bottle
Le Caveau Saviesan Fendant has always been known in Valais as a festive and aperitif wine. Ripened along the steep terraces of the vineyard, allowing itself to be browned in the sun. It will draw all its character in the soil from where it comes, always with great freshness. Ample and structured with expressions of floral bouquets.
Le Caveau Saviesan Pinot Noir charms with its notes of small red fruits such as blackcurrant and blackberries. The mouth is both elegant and fresh, punctuated by notes of stars anise and cloves. A typical Pinot, elegant with nice aromas maintained by a beautiful tannic waft.
Take home mixed case 3 bottles white and 3 bottles red @ $250
B E E R
B ON A N Z A !
Monday to Friday from 5pm to 8pm
Bucket of 5 Krombacher Pils at $50 nett
Tiger Draft (0.5L) at $10 nett 17
FAREWELL, SUMMER –
Hell Again,
Tennis
FAREWELL AND WELCOME 40XV would like to thank coaches Mary and Kristoffer for their great work, and wish them the best of luck for the future. Meanwhile, we welcome our new coaches Ken (L) and Jonathan (R).
After the long summer break, it can be hard to get back on court, since many of us are out of shape after the holiday excesses. Here’s a tip to help you get back into top form, together with reflections on recent events and news of upcoming ones.
TOP TIP To lift your game quickly, focus on your footwork and be more precise in the coordination of your eyes and feet. Focus on reading the ball quickly, then move to adjust your position and get the right distance between you and the ball.
and for your smiles! A new tennis season started mid-August for the kids. We still have some slots available, so do not hesitate to contact us if your children would like to join us on court. IN FULL SWING All the teams of the Club are already back on court, training, playing matches and proudly defending the Swiss Club flag! In August, we held a fun ‘welcome back’ social. Thanks to all those good sports who came and played with us. Look out for the photos in the next issue of this magazine.
KIDS ON COURT We had lots of fun during the summer holidays with our Tennis/Multi-Sport Camps. Around 80 kids came to learn or improve their tennis throughout the 2-month holiday. Thanks for your efforts 18
On 8 and 9 September (and 10 if needed), we play the 3rd Junior Tournament of the year. Come and cheer on our future Swiss Club stars! Welcome back on court!
DATES TO REMEMBER Check out the sports newsletter for more accurate/updated dates and times. September September Junior Tournament #3 Mens, Ladies and Junior Leagues Ladder Tournament October Kids’ Tennis Camp Ladder Tournament IS YOUR CHILD INTERESTED IN PLAYING TENNIS? Please contact: E: pierre@forty-fifteen.com
Article and photos courtesy of Pierre Capdeville, Swiss Club Tennis Director
SPORTS
PADEL TUTORIAL:
The Chiquita, Explained
This issue, Coach Lucas acquaints us with the padel move known as the chiquita – a Spanish term that loosely translates as ‘little one’. It is used when playing against a couple with a powerful smash, who tend to play a little further from the net, making it difficult to take them out of the net using a lob.
BEGIN WITH A BACKSWING… INAUGURAL OPEN PADEL TOURNAMENT 2 – 8 October 2017
Start with a backswing very close to the ball with an open grip, to make your opponents think that they are going to receive a lob. They will weight back in anticipation of a smash.
Follow through, always finishing below the shoulder line. AIM FOR THE FEET LINE… The idea of this shot is to play the ball always to the feet line of the attacking players so we will always receive a defensive volley. To be more effective, play the shot to any player's feet close to the T line, or the T line itself. Though the chiquita is a risky shot, it is very effective if executed with calm and accuracy. The trick is to go close to the ball, always with the same defending foot (open stance), compensate with your shoulders, and keep your face close to the racket. If you make it a very long but slow shot, the ball should always drop as desired.
Next, make a contact point right in front of your left foot.
I hope you enjoyed this tip. We are always looking to expand our pool of padel-playing families, so don't be afraid to ask and try, no matter your level, age or physical condition!
For the first time in the history of the Swiss Club, we are organising a padel tournament where everyone can join in (both Members and non-members). Bring along your friends, guests, and family to this exciting and fun-filled new event. But hurry, as spots are limited! (Registration will close a week prior to the Tournament.) NEW PADEL JUNIOR PROGRAMME
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 3.30pm
5 - 7 years old
4.30pm
8 - 10 years old
LADIES’ TRAINING Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8am Sign up now, as spots are limited!
INTERESTED IN PLAYING PADEL? Please contact: Lucas de Miguel, Swiss Club Padel Coach M: 8344 5364 or email Pierre Capdeville at E: pierre@forty-fifteen.com
Article and photos courtesy of Lucas de Miguel, Swiss Club Padel Coach 19
SPORTS
Swiss Club Kidz Shine in National ZDK Karate Belt Gradings Since Zen Do Ka Freestyle Karate classes began at Swiss Club in 2011, dozens of Members’ children have been getting a kick out of ZDK Karate. Many of them recently excelled at the national ZDK gradings, where every Swiss Club Karate Kid passed their tests with flying colours. FREE TRIAL CLASSES
We invite your kids to join in the fun and learn self-defence through games, fun competitions, exciting tricky spinning kicks and punches and hitting pads – NOT each other. Bring your child to an obligation-free trial class! Swiss Kidz (L to R) Ella, Lena, Nathan and Luca
(L to R) New Brown Belt, Emilie David. 3rd from L, Luca Wigley, new Black Belt. 5th from L, Sensei Peter, new 4th Dan Black Belt and 6th from L, Mathis Kobel, new Brown Belt
CONGRATULATIONS, KIDZ!
Venue: Swiss Club's New Aerobics Room
Congratulations go to Caelan Macdonald who earned his Yellow Belt; Aaran Macdonald and Austin Billing, for earning their Orange Belts; Ben and Ella Regamey, Lena and Nathan Beck, who all earned Blue Belts; Emilie David and Mathis Kobel, who earned their Brown Belts; and after starting Karate at Swiss Club in 2011, Luca Wigley who earned his Black Belt. Caelan, Arran, Austin, and Mathis also earned special awards for excellence on the day.
KARATE KIDZ CLASSES
Above all, Karate Kidz classes are fun. The typical class starts with warm-up games like tag, races and soccer before getting to the serious business of karate. Zen Do Ka Karate Kidz learn traditional Kata – choreographed battles with imaginary foes to promote concentration and the Zendoka's ongoing quest for perfection. Students learn takedowns and breakfalls, so they can fall without being hurt. They also learn to escape grabs and holds, defend against punches and kicks and, perhaps most importantly, that Karate is meant to be used for self-defence, not to hurt people. Hence they are taught to respond in a proportional way if attacked. 20
Dress code: Karate Kidz can wear street clothes for Trial Classes but must wear a ZDK Karate Uniform after signing up.
Dates: Little Dragons & Mini Ninjas – 4 years and above. 5pm to 6pm every Thursday. The next term starts on 17 August and includes 9 sessions. Cost: $270 for the full term; late starters will be pro-rated at $30 per session.
New Blue Belts (L to R) Front row: Ella and Ben Regamey. Middle row 2nd, 3rd from L, Nathan and Lena Beck
Instructional DVDs: For this term only, all new, sign ups will receive a FREE Instructional DVD worth $40. After earning their Yellow Belts, participants are required to purchase Instructional DVDs for subsequent belt levels, which help them advance through independent learning and homework assignments. Instructor: The class is conducted by Australian Sensei Peter A. Robertson, 4th Dan Black Belt in Karate & Kickboxing, 2nd Dan in USSD and Black Belt in Australian Freestyle Karate.
IS YOUR CHILD INTERESTED IN JOINING KARATE KIDZ?
Nathan and twin sister Lena Beck, proud new Blue Belts
Please contact Sensei Peter A. Robertson at: M: 9837 8637 E: zendoka@yahoo.com
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SPORTS
Mountain Biking… in Singapore?
Yes, You
Can!
Though technically it's more cross-country (XC) biking than true mountain biking, since there are only a handful of hills in Singapore (having seen the Alps, it’s hard to call them mountains), and many are not even accessible by bike, there are many trails to be explored in Singapore.
TRAILS FOR ALL LEVELS The majority of trails within the main island of Singapore take only a short bike ride from the Swiss Club to reach, the nearest one being the technically demanding Bukit Timah mountain bike trail. Chestnut Nature Park offers a variety of more family-friendly trails, and there is of course Track 15, stretching all the way up to Mandai Road. And if you're up for a short break from Singapore, you can take the boat to Pulau Ubin, where you can find another dedicated mountain bike trail offering some peaceful riding. Given these opportunities, it is no wonder that the Swiss Club hosts an active mountain bike scene. Our red Swiss Club MTB Riders shirts have become quite visible not just at the Club but also in local competitions. Our riders have been steadily winning a series of 22
SWISS CLUB FAMILY RIDES The next outings are currently planned for: 17 September 2017 8 October 2017 Details will be posted in the Sports update newsletters. bronze, silver and gold medals this year, as in previous years. If you are more inclined to the easygoing, relaxed side of biking, consider joining one of the upcoming Swiss Club MTB family rides. They are suitable for all levels of riders (including kids), provided you have a decently working mountain bike. Save the dates and gear up for some ‘mountain biking’ in Singapore!
SWISS CLUB MEMBERS SAVE AT BYX BIKE SHOP! Enjoy 15% OFF New Bikes! PLUS Attractive Discounts on Most Gear! BYX Bike Shop, 403 River Valley Road, 248301
Article and photos courtesy of Felix Kobel
TEE FOR TRIVIA Justin Timberlake has participated twice in the Golf Digest U.S. Open Challenge and has been the official host of the PGA Tour stop in Las Vegas.
German-Swiss Golf Club
COMPETITION SCHEDULE SEPTEMBER 2017 MEDAL ROUND Date
Saturday, 30 September 2017
Tee-off commences
Midday
Venue
Sembawang Country Club, Singapore
Format
Stableford – September Medal
Registration by
Sunday, 24 September 2017
OCTOBER 2017 MEDAL ROUND
INTERESTED IN PLAYING GOLF? If you would like to join our golfing group, take part in or register for one of the competitions, or find out more, please contact: Joachim Herrmann, Golf Convenor M: 8121 8902 E: germanswissgolfclub@gmail.com
Date
Sunday, 29 October 2017
Tee-off commences
Midday
Venue
Horizon Hill Golf & Country Club, Malaysia
Format
Stableford – October Medal
Registration by
Sunday, 22 October 2017
EVENTS
b u l C s s i w S e r A f f a t S ! s r a t s r e p Su Not only do our loyal staff provide stellar service at the Club, they also have superstar alter-egos lurking within. The likes of Britney Spears and Sharukh Kahn were unleashed on the evening of 24 July, when BluJaz CafĂŠ hosted the finale of the Swiss Club Staff party 2017... Pictures speak, as they say, so feast your eyes on this!
Thank you to all Swiss Club Members for your understanding with regard to the limited service during our Staff Party, and to our generous sponsors who made it possible. 24
EVENTS What the Day Held 2pm – 4pm: Get-together and team-building games in the Sports Hall
6pm till late: Party at BluJaz Café Dress Code: I Am a Celebrity!
(L): Tim as himself, and Paulina as Charlie Chaplin (R): Samy as Michael Jackson, Carsten as himself, Govin as Shahrukh Khan, and Adrian as John Lennon
Congratulations to… … the Winners of Our Best-Dressed Competition:
Achieving your goals with a reliable partner by your side.
Hits the mark. Luther. Eden as
Britney Spears
Govin as
Shahrukh Khan
… and the winner of our Lucky Draw:
Berlin, Brussels, Cologne, Dusseldorf, Essen, Frankfurt a. M., Delhi-Gurgaon, Hamburg, Hanover, Kuala Lumpur, Leipzig, London, Luxembourg, Munich, Shanghai, Singapore, Stuttgart, Yangon
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EVENTS
A Night of Happiness and 'Swissness' The weather was perfect. The food was delicious. The music was wonderful. On Saturday 5 August, the night of the Club’s Swiss National Day celebrations, the balmy evening air was charged with children’s laughter, adult banter and the magnificent voice of renowned opera singer Claudio Danuser. A SELLOUT SUCCESS
In the week leading up to the event, ticket sales went through the roof. “Last-minute sign-ups went crazy!” shared Paulina, the Club’s Acting Marketing & Events Manager. In fact, registrations had swelled from 300 to more than 450 party-goers. By 6pm, families, couples and groups of singles were pouring in.
THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE YEAR
“The Swiss National Day event at the Swiss Club is one of the highlights, especially this year as we also celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations with Singapore,” said the Ambassador. He also mentioned the excellent relations and strong cooperation between the two countries. “Singapore always
squirrel or lizard stirred in the jungle as Claudio’s magnificent voice filled the air.
FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD
The Swiss Embassy kindly sponsored welcome drinks for all attendees. Other pleasant diversions included music from the brilliant Alphorn players, Urs Brütsch and Andres Diriwachter, and a button badge-making workshop, sponsored by Swatch. Next came a welcome address by our Deputy President René Cotting, and a speech by His Excellency Mr Thomas Kupfer, Ambassador of Switzerland to Singapore. 26
took Switzerland as a model in many areas,” said His Excellency Ambassador Kupfer. “Obviously, today Singapore has achieved great progress and has reached similar levels to Switzerland in many areas, or even higher." After the Ambassador’s address, renowned Swiss singer Claudio Danuser took to the stage and performed a powerful and moving rendition of the Swiss national anthem. The rapt audience hung on every note, and not a
As always, Chef Adrian and the F&B team led by Aaron Lim, the Club’s new F&B Operations Service Manager, laid out a sumptuous spread. The traditional raclette stations attracted queues, as usual, and proved well worth the wait. Mountains of roast pork roulade, roast chicken, sausages, meatloaf, beef skewers, cold cuts and a decadent dessert buffet kept everyone satisfied. Throughout the evening, Carsten conducted a series of lucky draws during which guests won attractive prizes such as Swatch watches, LED-lit ice buckets and al fresco lighting. Thanks to great music, courtesy of the Swiss Alpine Lions, the dance floor was well patronised. Towards the end of the evening a bevy of pretty young mums and their little ones danced up a storm
EVENTS
A Message from the President of the Swiss Confederation The audience was enthralled by a stirring audio recording of the address by the President of the Swiss Confederation, Doris Leuthard, to the Swiss abroad. Here, we share some excerpts and highlights.
to the familiar and now-nostalgic strains of ‘Gangnam Style’.
LEAPING FLAMES AND SOARING SPIRITS
No Swiss National Day celebration would be complete without the traditional lampion parade and bonfire. At around 8.30pm, our General Manager Carsten called all the children up to the stage, and led a luminous procession to the bonfire. The little ones’ eyes were filled with awe as the ancient tradition of lighting fires in elevated hills was continued, far from home but close in spirit.
The Other Celebration – The Berne Secondary School Reunion Mr Claudio Danuser and his former classmates, from a public secondary school in Berne, decided to organise a school reunion in Singapore when they found out that he would perform in Singapore for the Swiss National Day at the Swiss Club. The venue was fixed when it was discovered that Singapore was the very country where another classmate, Gery Messer, had been living for 25 years. In fact, Gery is a longtime Swiss Club Member and married his Singaporean wife at the Club in 1999. “It was absolutely a happy coincidence,” said Gery. From the smiles on the faces of these jovial gentlemen, it was an excellent decision.
“Wherever you live, you take pride in our country… You are ambassadors for our country all year round, and not just on the first of August… Thanks to you, Switzerland has become almost borderless. The first of August has become an opportunity for us to celebrate Switzerland, our values and our successes. It is important to celebrate achievements, but at the same time, not everyone is so fortunate and it is our duty to take responsibility. We are in a period marked by conflict, much violence, and repositioning of countries such as China, the United States and the UK. During these times, Europe needs to pull together… Today, Switzerland is a rock of stability. Despite many uncertainties, we have been able to hold firm and maintain a good quality of life. However, our comfort zone has narrowed, for everything that happens in this world, whether a financial crisis, digitalisation, the effects of climate change, violence, war on terror, migration, the still huge divide between rich and poor nations, and technical progress… it all affects us in some way, wherever we live… History has taught us – better solutions tend to be reached by being open to new ideas… through cooperation, not confrontation. Ladies and gentlemen, let us take today’s National Day celebrations as an opportunity to consider these values and apply them to our lives… Thank you for all that you do for Switzerland from a distance… Happy first of August!”
All in all, it was a perfect night of moonlight and magic. 27
INTEREST
NEWS FROM THE
Oh, What a Night!
Summer Night Event – Snapshots of the Past
The most anticipated event of the academic year, Summer Night Event, was held on 22 June 2017. It wrapped up both the school year 2016-2017 and the celebration of the 50th Year Anniversary of the Swiss School in Singapore. AN ENTERTAINING EVENING
The event commenced with a dramatic interlude by the Primary 6s, in which they got into trouble with their teacher for splashing paint over the statue of the cow. They were punished for their disobedience and asked to reflect on their actions, triggering short excursions into the past and the future.
REFLECTING AND REMINISCING
In the weeks leading up to the event, students and teachers worked and rehearsed diligently to put together a stunning display and spectacular performance centred on the theme of ‘Snapshots of the Past’. The nostalgic content took us back to the school’s rich heritage of decades past.
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Thrilling performances, along with a historical photographic tour, were lined up to entertain our audience. Photos and decorations were mounted along the windows and on the walls of the multipurpose hall, where the performances were held. This prompted us to reflect on the Swiss School’s numerous achievements and memorable moments from years gone by.
Early Childhood classes took to the stage with a sweet re-enactment of what a typical day in pre-school looks like, dancing their hearts out to upbeat nursery songs. Primary 2s followed with a performance on the theme of ‘Reading Nights’, and Primary 5 students grooved to their own choreographed dance routines to ‘Byte’ and ‘Can’t Stop the Feeling’. Next, Primary 3s impressed the audience with their ‘Poetry Slam’, followed by the Kindergarten students who, dressed in adorable swimming attire, danced enthusiastically with umbrellas. Primary 1s went on an ‘outing’ to the zoo and encountered a ‘snake’. Not to be outdone, the Primary 4 students performed live with a variety of improvised instruments such as boomwhackers, a football, lunchboxes and pop cans. Back to the future,
Primary 6s gave us a glimpse of how they visualised their future with a rap song, accompanied by backflips and an impressive juggling act with fire!
The nostalgic content took us back to the school’s rich heritage of decades past. A STIRRING FINALE
For the final performance, the whole school gathered on stage. A mini-choir sang the Swiss School song from a side stage, and were joined by students from Kindergarten to Primary 6, who entered the main stage to sing the second verse and chorus. Sacha Daehler, Principal of the Swiss School in Singapore, 2011-2017, gave a short speech thanking the teachers and students for their efforts throughout the year. The night culminated in a touching farewell to our Primary 6 students, who were led off the stage by their respective Primary 1 buddies. Article courtesy of Kristy Waddell and Reena Rai Photos courtesy of Camilla Businger
Fall Events
The Golden Jubilee Continues The Embassy of Switzerland takes pleasure in sharing the details of two rewarding events in September and October.
Date: Saturday 30 September Time: 10am – 5pm Venue: Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre Organised by the Delegation of the European Union to Singapore, the Study in Europe education fair is a showcase of Europe’s excellence in higher education and research. The fair will provide students the opportunity to receive comprehensive information on a wide variety of world-class degree programmes, advanced research facilities and an intriguing diversity of cultures, languages and societies. Representing the Swiss public institutes of higher education, the Embassy of Switzerland will provide detailed information on study programmes offered by Swiss universities together with general insights on living in Switzerland. Admission is free, and we welcome all interested parties to seize this opportunity to take the first step on an unforgettable journey of learning and personal enrichment. For more information, visit: www.swissuniversities.ch/en/
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
STUDY IN EUROPE 2017
PHOTO EXHIBITION: Humanity's Greening of Planet Earth – A Voyage by Swiss photographer Mario Del Curto Date: 2 Oct – 12 Nov 2017 Venue: Colonnade, Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay The Swiss Embassy proudly presents a breathtakingly beautiful photo exhibition, imagined and conceived by Swiss photographer Mario Del Curto. The project focuses on biodiversity and the different ways in which humans have interacted with their natural, botanical environment through the ages and in different parts of the world. It stands at the crossroads between art and science, where photographic vision meets cutting-edge research in plant biology. The exhibition underlines the fascinating fact that the history of gardens is closely linked to the history of mankind. At a time when botanical diversity is seriously
threatened, there appears to be a strong revival of interest in the life of plants. Today they acquire new relevance in the realms of science, medicine and protection of the environment. Guided tours will be organised, at dates and timing to be confirmed. For more information, visit: www.eda.admin.ch/singapore
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INTEREST Photo courtesy of Multifoto
A Choral Performance 900 Years in the Making ALL THE WAY FROM NORWAY The 900-year-old Nidarosdomens Guttekor from Norway is one of Europe’s most successful choirs, with a history that dates back to the 11th Century when Norwegian and English stonemasons were building the Christ Church, the predecessor to Nidaros Cathedral. The Norwegians will be accompanied by Singapore’s professional chamber orchestra, re:SOUND Collective.
Photo courtesy of Multifoto
The evening promises a wide repertoire of traditional and classical works, including major pieces such as Giacomo Puccini’s classic Messa di Gloria, which will be performed in its entirety for the first time in Singapore. Audiences will also be treated to a shining jewel of Norwegian culture when Nidarosdomens Guttekor performs Den Fyrste Song eg Høyra Fekk (First Song My Mother Sang to Me), together with a stirring selection of Norwegian folk songs.
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AN ILLUSTRIOUS CONDUCTOR Music lovers are in for a treat. A programme of traditional AND A RENOWNED ORGANIST and classical works, including Giacomo Puccini’s Messa di The current conductor and artistic director of the choir, Bjørn Moe, was aby the renowned Nidarosdomens Gloria, will be performed former choir boy himself, starting out as Guttekor Men’s and Boys’ Choir) and a boy soprano(Nidaros at the age ofCathedral eight and later singing both tenor and bass. The re:SOUND Chamber Orchestra on 20 and 21 October, at 72-year-old HM The King’s Medal of Merit the Esplanade Concert Hall in Singapore. in Gold awardee became the conductor of Nidarosdomens Guttekor in 1973, Photo courtesy of Richard Chen taking over from Ludvig Nielsen who was previously the choir’s organist and who held the conductor’s position since performed with legendary soprano Dame 1948. Bjørn also served as an associate Kiri Te Kanawa in 2011. professor at the Department for Music at the Norwegian University of Science and CULTURAL EXCHANGE Technology. “Licha Stelaus Productions was created to represent truly remarkable young The Director of Music and organist of talented musicians and performing Nidaros Cathedral – Magne Draagen, artists from around the world to share will perform with the choir. The former their music with a global audience”, student of renowned organists Terje says Richard Chen, CEO of Licha Stelaus Winge and Kåre Nordstoga will provide Productions, the young Singapore-based a rare treat as he accompanies the promoter of classical concerts that is choir for the first half of both concerts, bringing the choir to our shores. “We enchanting audiences with the melodious also emphasise the importance of a full tones of the Esplanade’s magnificent cultural exchange for our artists so that, pipe organ. Determined to make their when they come to Singapore, they will Singaporean debut an unforgettable have the opportunity to truly experience affair, Nidarosdomens Guttekor has also the many delights that Singapore has to invited world-renowned Norwegian tenor, Thomas Ruud, to join them for both offer”. performances. Having performed on On the subject of delights, do not miss stage more than 150 times, Thomas has this delightful evening of classical music. worked with legendary conductors such To purchase tickets or find out more, visit as Patrick Fournillier, Christian Lindberg, www.sistic.com.sg/events/cchoir1017 Eivind Gullberg Jensen and many more. The experienced tenor has also
INTEREST MEET A MEMBER
The Kobel Family at ‘Home’ Members since August 2013, Felix and Christine Kobel and their three lovely children, Mathis, Flavian and Alma, feel perfectly at home at the Swiss Club. Chances are, you’ve seen them dining, swimming, cycling and playing at the Club. Now, let’s get to know them a little better… LOVE AT FIRST VISIT The Kobel family first came to the Swiss Club in August 2013 to attend the Swiss National Day celebration (which is coincidentally covered in this issue of RELAX). They fell in love with the Club then and there, and joined shortly after. The Kobels are Swiss, and previously lived in Switzerland before coming to Singapore for work-related reasons. Felix is a lawyer, and all three children – 9-year-old Mathis, 7-year-old Flavian and 4-year-old Alma, attend the Swiss School. Christine has her hands full with three children under ten, and walks Alma to school every day. She is at the Club almost every day after school.
Arbenz is good for social gatherings, and the nature and greenery are priceless and brilliant! Felix Kobel LIFE REVOLVES AROUND THE CLUB All family members make full use of the Club’s facilities. Felix is highly engaged in the Club’s mountain biking group, and is also a Committee Member. He visits the Club every Saturday with Christine 32
and the children. Christine frequently uses the tennis courts and pool, Mathis is a member of the Swiss Sharks swimming team, and Flavian and Alma are ‘regulars’ in the playground and pool. The family has lunch at the Club twice a week.
The monkeys, the squirrels roaming around, it’s amazing!
Christine Kobel
When asked to cite what they love most about the Club, the challenge for Felix and Christine was to single out one or two things – as opposed to listing just about everything! “Arbenz is good for social gatherings, and the nature and greenery are priceless and brilliant!” said Felix. “It’s hard to pick a place… The monkeys, the squirrels roaming around, it’s amazing!” enthused Christine. “With so many Swiss and German families here, it’s ‘home’!” The Kobels also praised the improvements that can be seen surfacing around the Club, and singled out the chic new pool furniture for special mention. They hope to see more new activities being introduced for Members.
STAFF SHINE On the subject of home, Christine praised the staff for their friendliness. “Everyone makes us feel at home. Yati and Margaret are a pleasure to be around, and always make us feel very welcome,” said Christine. Likewise, it was a pleasure to be around you – thank you, Felix, Christine, Mathis, Flavian and Alma!
DINING WITH THE KOBELS Felix recommends… Beef Tartar (“… the best!”) Christine recommends… Beef Tartar and Cervelat Salad Mathis recommends… Vegetable Wraps and Flammkuchen Flavian recommends… Pretzel and Spaghetti Bolognaise Alma recommends… Chicken Nuggets (“… mainly because of the ketchup!”)
INTEREST MEET A STAFFER
Why Kogila Crosses the Causeway
A resident of Johor Bahru in Malaysia, Kogila Veeran is a 35-year-old room attendant at The Guesthouse. Five mornings a week, she happily makes the trip across the causeway with her husband, who works at the Singapore Zoo.
DAUGHTER, WIFE, MOTHER, COLLEAGUE Kogila comes form a family of five girls, which made the arrival of her 3-year-old son Amohan all the more joyous. When she is not cleaning rooms, making beds and restocking mini-bars at The Guesthouse, she can be found cleaning the washrooms and changing rooms at the Swiss Club, and generally helping out her colleagues whenever and wherever she can. “My colleagues are very supportive. We all help each other out,” said Kogila. “The Management is also very supportive and
friendly,” she added.
mee soto.
HONESTY IS THE BEST POLICY When asked to recount a highlight of her job, Kogila shyly shared that last year, a guest left a lot of cash in his room after checking out. She returned it and subsequently received an Honesty Award at the 2016 Staff Party, including a cash prize of $300.
When Kogila is not working, she enjoys taking her young son to playgrounds and theme parks.
Kogila also enjoys the beautiful natural surroundings of the Swiss Club, and appreciates the perks of the job, including the staff meals. She especially loves the
Shaping digitalization in Singapore siemens.com.sg 34
A JOB THAT’S ‘JUST RIGHT’ “This is my first job in Singapore, and I hope I will be working here for many years to come,” said Kogila. “Everything is just right for me here.” Going by the number of staff and Members who stopped to say a friendly ‘hi’ to Kogila during our interview, it would seem that Kogila is just right for the Swiss Club.
INTEREST
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INTEREST
LAST WORD
Welcome to our new regular section, called ‘LAST WORD’. It’s a multi-purpose forum where anyone can share praise, news, reflections and suggestions. If you have something to say, please email it to: marketing@swissclub.org.sg
Good On You, Yash! I just wanted to give some very positive feedback about your new trainee waiter in the Pergola restaurant (Yash). He is incredibly helpful, so polite and well-spoken, and takes his role very seriously. Many other Members have also commented on his great service. We are seriously pleased and impressed! Thanks, Marika
Evidently, the Event Was a Success… Hi Paulina Thanks a lot for all your help. I couldn’t have done it without the support of you and your team! The feedback from the customers is amazing, and everyone had a good time over the course of the two days. Thanks once again. Best Regards, Nivedita Dutta Goel Assistant Manager, Marketing & Communications (APAC) ECU-Worldwide (Singapore) Pte Ltd
Food For Thought A beautiful Irish saying overheard many years ago in Dublin by a long-standing Member, Salman Bokhari, and generously shared with the Editorial team: “Take it easy, and if you can’t take it easy then take it as easy as you can!”
Praise For Paradise We’ve been staying at The Guesthouse for 10 days... The Swiss Club is the paradise of Singapore! Claudio Danuser Visiting Swiss singer
Congratulations
to the Winners of Our ‘Voices of the Amazon’ Contest A big ‘thank you’ to all who entered our recent contest to win tickets to ‘Voices of the Amazon’, the stunning new dance musical set against the Brazilian rainforest. 36
CONGRATS TO… The following Members each won a pair of tickets to the performance of ‘Voices of the Amazon’ at Marina Bay Sands:
Wiebke Klingenberg-Timm Hock Meng Foong From all reports, it was a spectacular show! Look out for more ticket giveaways in our weekly e-newsletters!
INTEREST
Fitness, Friends, Fun! PROGRAMME OF ACTIVITIES IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER
Join in our regular activities and form binding friendships as you keep fit. We have something for all interests, ages and levels of fitness. FOOTBALL FAMILY SOCIAL FOOTBALL Sun 15:00 – 16:30 (Football Field) Sun 16:30 – 18:00 (Football Field)
TENNIS MEN’S SOCIAL Tue 19:00 – 22:00 (Courts 2 & 3) 21:00 – 22:00 (Court 4)
SWIMMING AQUADUCKS E: swiss@aquaducks.com.sg M: 9487 5183 (weather update only)
SOCIAL FOOTBALL Mon 20:00 – 22:00 (Football Field)
Sat 15:00 – 18:00 (Courts 2, 3 & 4)
PARENT AND CHILD 30 mins sessions
Please register with Urs Lichtenberger (E: ulichtenberger@bluewin.ch) and Thomas Koechli (E: tkoechli@gmail.com) to get on the mailing list. An email is sent to Swiss Club members every Friday to get players registered for football on Monday.
Please contact Reception at T: 6591 9420 E: recept@swissclub.org.sg LADIES’ CLINICS Mon & Tue 09:00 – 11:00
GERMAN TEAM FOOTBALL PRACTICE Tue 20:15 – 22:00 (Football Field)
Mon: Court 1 – Open to all members Court 4 & 5 – WITS/LTS teams only
Rino Binder E: info@gas-sg.com (German All Stars)
Tue: Courts 4 & 5 – WITS/LTS teams only
SWISS TEAM FOOTBALL PRACTICE Wed 20:00 – 22:00 (Football Field) League games on Saturdays
Fri 08:00 – 10:00 Courts 4 & 5 – Open to all members, registration with 40XV is required
Coach: Urs Brutsch E: urs.brutsch@hpwm.sg
Court 4 & 5: • Parent/child and tiny tots programme • Junior introductory/development programme • Junior intermediate/advance programme
Heinz Braegger E: heinz.braegger@sc.com Captain: Thomas Kaegi E: thomas-za.kaegi@ubs.com FOOTBALL TRAINING FOR KIDS Training on Saturday 09:00 – 10:30 U5/U6/U8 (Football Field) Cosmo United Football Academy Olliver Marx E: info@cufa.com.sg W: www.cufa.com.sg M: 9821 3896
For times and dates, please see the 40XV display at the tennis courts. FORTY-FIFTEEN (40XV) Tennis Director: Pierre Capdeville E: pierre@forty-fifteen.com Please check the tennis noticeboard for courts allocation for coaching and social tennis.
Mon – Fri 14:30 – 17:00 (Leisure Pool) PRESCHOOL LTS 30 mins sessions Mon – Fri 14:30 – 17:00 (Leisure Pool) Sat 10:00 – 12:00 (Lap Pool) LEARN TO SWIM 30 mins sessions Mon – Fri 14:30 – 17:00 (Leisure Pool) Sat 10:00 – 12:00 (Lap Pool) COMPETITION & DEVELOPMENT CD1 & CD2 Mon – Fri 17:00 – 18:00 CD2 Sat 08:30 CD1 Sat 09:15 CD3/CD4 Tue – Fri 18:00 Sat 08:30 Water Polo Mon 18:00 ADULTS' TRAINING Tue 08:30 – 09:30 (Leisure Pool)
PADEL Padel Tennis Coach: Lucas de Miguel M: 8344 5364 E: pierre@forty-fifteen.com
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INTEREST
AEROBICS BODY TONING Tue & Fri 08:30 – 09:30 (Aerobics Studio) STEP AND TONING Wed 18:00 – 19:00 (Aerobics Studio) Please contact Andrea Holzmann-Zaouchi at E: holzmann.a@hotmail.com or T: 9835 4674 for more details. BADMINTON Thu 20:00 – 22:00 (Sports Hall) Please contact Martin Goerg at E: badminton@swissclub.org.sg for more details. BIKE RIDES ON SUNDAYS Please check Newsletter for more details. GOLF German-Swiss Golf Club Please contact Joachim Herrmann at E: germanswissgolfclub@gmail.com or T: 8121 8902 JASS Six rounds per year, usually a Friday night. Please contact Aileen Aschwanden at E: jass@swissclub.org.sg for more details.
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KARATE FOR KIDS Aerobics Studio Thu 17:00 – 18:00 Mini-Ninjas, 4 - 6 years Little Dragons, over 6 years Please contact the instructor, Sensei Peter Robertson, at E: zendoka@yahoo.com or T: 9837 8637 for more details. MAHJONG Mon 19:30 – 22:30 (Rifle Lounge) Please contact Jill Boschung at E: jillbos@yahoo.com or T: 9022 4605 for more details. PROFESSIONAL FITNESS SERVICES AQUA BIKING Wed 19:00 – 19:45 Sat 09:00 – 09:45, 10:00 – 10:45 BOOT CAMP Mon 18:00 – 18:45 (Football Field) (Note: During rain, Boot Camp will be held at the gym) Thu 08:00 – 08:45 (Outside Gym)
SKAT Wed 20:00 – 23:00 (Jungle Bar) Please contact Hubert Nerlich at E: hubertnerlich@gmail.com or T: 6734 0034 for more details. VOLLEYBALL Wed 20:00 – 22:00 (Sports Hall) Please contact Steffen Koch at E: s.n.koch1@web.de for more details. YOGA HATHA YOGA Sat 09:00 – 10:00 (Pavilion) Please contact Nadja Pizzo at E: pizzonadja@gmail.com or T: 9145 4408 for more details. YIN YOGA Mon 08:30 – 09:30 (Pavilion) Please contact Laurence Chehab-Fabry at E: info.letsyoga@gmail.com or T: 9170 8218 for more details.
PERSONAL TRAINING
SALON AND SPA SERVICES AVEDA SALON & SPA
Please contact Timothy Felix at E: getactive@activefitness.com.sg by appointment only.
Please contact T: 6463 0400 or SMS 9655 8165 for more details.
PILATES Wed 08:30 – 09:30 (Aerobics Studio) Please contact Christabel Lim at E: christabel_lyh@hotmail.com or T: 9619 5820. Note: Pre-registration is required for this class.
GOT A SUGGESTION? If you would like to suggest a new activity, please contact: Members Relations E: recept@swissclub.org.sg DID: 6591 9420
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