Muthaiga Country Club Magazine October-December 2023

The M ut hai g a C ountry Club M agazi n e

October - December 2023

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Front Cover Photo

by Kathy Gabriel Three lady Members took part in, and completed, the Mongol Derby 2023, which is considered the longest, hardest horse race in the world. (see more on Pages 14 & 15)

C ont ents page 1

Letter from the Chairman

page 2

Letter from the Secretary

page 3

Membership Matters

page 4

Roving Eye & Letters

page 5

Balloting & Competition

page 6

Staff News

page 7

MCC Events

page 10

Forthcoming Events Diary

page 11

Muthaiga Sports Round-Up

page 14

Mongul Derby

page 16

Members’ Honours

page 18

Members’ Achievements

page 20

Opera & Ballet

page 21

Library News & Book Reviews

page 22

Heritage – Muthaiga Now & Then

page 24

Bird Quiz

page 25

Hatches & Matches

page 26

KHS 100

page 27

Obituaries

The Muthaiga Country Club Magazine is published by MCC for Members Editor: Yoyo Volak

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Magazine Production: Matthew Rudd, Mercy Wanyeri, Diana Waithaka, Eunice Mulwa, Yvonne Magambo, Vincent Ford, Francis Kitoto.

Contributors: Edita Camm, Peter Usher, Simon Roberts, Matthew Rudd, Chyulu Francombe.

Design & Layout by Shelleys the Printers.

Printed by Graphite Lounge.

Muthaiga Country Club October – December 2023

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From the Chairman Members I hope you are all hale and hearty.

The rains are on their way, we are told perhaps of the El Nino variety. While rain is always a blessing, please be careful if we are to be deluged.

Some news of a sad departure and a glorious Muthaiga first.

Firstly the departure of Michael Flint as Club Secretary. Despite the best efforts of the Committee to persuade Michael otherwise, he has accepted an offer that will base him in the USA on terms that he could not turn down and we certainly could not match in a senior leadership position. Michael departs on 16th February 2024. Michael's stay with us has been too short but nevertheless during his brief tenure he has achieved much. We wish Michael and his family well and we are confident that we will find an equally talented and accomplished successor as Club Secretary.

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From departures to arrivals, and as I said, a Muthaiga first. While we welcome all new arrivals to Members and encourage new parent Members to publish news of those arrivals in the ‘Hatches & Matches’ section of this magazine, I thought you might be interested to learn that, for the first time in 110 years of our existence, a sitting member of the Main Committee has given birth. In this case Christina Engell-Anderson, to a beautiful baby girl on 11th October 2023. Our congratulations to Christina and her family on this great news.

Looking back at other, perhaps not quite so momentous, events, I hope you all enjoyed Larry Soffer, illusionist and mentalist par excellence. He played to packed houses.

I understand that the Cooking Classes offered to our aspiring Junior Member chefs were a huge success too.

Congratulations to the Club tennis team for retaking the Herring Cup, I understand almost as exciting as the Ryder Cup! Looking forward, for three nights (2nd to 4th November) we have the pleasure of welcoming Alessandro Palazzi, world renowned barman from Duke’s Hotel in St James’ Place in London. Duke’s being the establishment which author Ian Fleming enjoyed patronising and where he picked up the idea of Martini-based cocktails.

I also see there is a Chef’s table coming up on Thursday 19th October, absolutely not to be missed.

Bonfire Night will take place in November, and we will also be hosting the sublime Nairobi Chamber Chorus in December, preceded by an opportunity for us all to celebrate Kenya’s Diamond Jubilee Jamhuri Day, leading us smoothly into the usual Christmas and end of Year celebrations.

So, Members, lots going on and lots of fun to be had.

Keep using and enjoying your Club.

My best wishes to you and your families,

Philip Coulson, Chairman, Muthaiga Country Club

www.mcc.co.ke

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October – December 2023 Muthaiga Country Club

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Our annual Guy Fawkes Night is also set for Saturday 4th at the Tennis Courts with a special fireworks display promised. So please bring out your children.

We will usher in the festive season with the traditional Christmas themed events, kicked off by the Christmas Draw Lunch on Saturday, 9th December. If you haven’t already, please purchase your draw tickets via the website, App or send an email to: billing@ mcc.co.ke to be in the running to win some fantastic prizes!

From the Secretar y Dear Members, Welcome to the last quarter of the year! I want to thank you for your continued patronage… it has been good to see many of you who went on summer break return to Nairobi and continue to enjoy the Club.

I start this edition on a sad note… We lost one of our team members, Sophia Karwitha Kinoti and her four-month-old baby.

The two succumbed following a road accident on Mombasa Road in September. Sophia was a valued member of the Sports & Wellness team where she worked dutifully since 2013. She will be missed by the MCC community. May their souls rest in peace.

On another very sad note (it’s heartbreaking), as many of you know by now from the Chairman’s communication, I will be leaving Muthaiga Country Club in mid-January 2024. This has been a very difficult decision for both Lily and me, but we are leaving for professional and family reasons. Please feel free to reach out to me directly if we haven’t spoken already, for me to give you more clarity.

I would like to share some updates: Club and Projects…

- Chairman’s Lawn washrooms are now installed and fully operational.

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Three Padel courts are currently in the fabrication stage and we are targeting their importation towards the end of the year.

More details to follow…

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Children’s playground has not been forgotten. Plans are underway for it to be fitted at Pinks in the very near future.

Paperless future!

- Thank you for the feedback you have shared with us from the communication put out in the last copy of the magazine. In the meantime, with Yoyo’s help, we are enhancing the e-version to be much more readable and user friendly…

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To keep up with the latest news and happenings at your Club, sign up to join the Club’s WhatsApp Group. Simply send an email to: communications@mcc.co.ke and we will add you to the official group.

Forthcoming Events In November, we will have an exclusive visit by world famous bartender Alessandro Palazzi from Duke’s Hotel in London who will put on three special events in November, with the highlight being a black-tie James Bond themed dinner. See Page 9 for more details.

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Muthaiga Country Club October – December 2023

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This will be followed by our annual Children’s Christmas Lunch, Christmas Carol Service hosted by the dynamic duo of Steve Mills and Mike Craig, Christmas Day Lunch and a special New Year’s Eve arrangement where we will have the traditional fine dining option in the Dining Room and a more family-friendly, relaxed atmosphere at Pinks, followed by fireworks at midnight to be enjoyed by all. Please see more details on Forthcoming Events on Page 10.

Music.

I hope you are enjoying the music now throughout the Club…

House improvements...

We recently established a new Barista walk-up station, with certified Baristas to cater to you.

Additionally, we have upgraded the furniture in the Garden Room, and you can now enjoy an After Dinner drinks experience to elevate your evening.

We continue to preserve and grow our 50+ Gin offering in the Garden Room, if you haven’t tried it, please do so as you sample our growing cigar portfolio.

Menu changes.

Executive Chef Macharia will be conducting changes to menus in both Pinks and the Main Dining Room every six months - be on the lookout for the new Dining Room menu next month.

Beautification...

Landscaping has been gradually improving with the introduction of more flowers to and plants from Front Office Reception all the way to Pinks.

Access Control improvements I am happy to report we are making headway with our Club access control system, to make it more friendly and efficient for you and your guests.

We are taking a more digital approach to enhance speedy access for all visiting the Club through the use of smart phones. Scanning of QR codes or use of the MCC App will soon be in place to facilitate smooth access. More details on this will follow soon.

And finally - I would like to commend one of our team members Eunice Mulwa who has recently been promoted to ICT Director.

Please congratulate her when you next see her.

I hope to see you at the Club soon!

Michael Flint MCC Secretary www.mcc.co.ke

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MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP AE T MM AT T R ST E R S With the winding down of a communications committee, this page is devoted to being more

of an opinion page, where prevailing moods and sentiments of Members on current Club h the winding down ofissues, a communications committee, this wepage devoted expressed in comments and mails, are echoed. As always, want tois know what’s on to being more your mind, and will always welcome your feedback. n opinion page, where prevailing moods and sentiments of Members on current Club es, expressed in comments and mails, are echoed. As always, we want to know what’s on r mind, and will always welcome your feedback.

MCC Christmas Draw 2023

ritz Walchli with some of the ng party. The staff presented him nd a carved wooden elephant.

On Top of the World with Delta Air Lines

In addition to our Top Prize, we will have a range of over 200 other fabulous prizes, many donated by Members. ope RECEN TLY, A DECI SI O N WA S MA DE TO O The cost of Raffle Tickets is still just KES 200/- each, and O FFER BREAKFAST ON LY AT PINKS … remember, the more tickets you buy, the greater your chances of Breakfast at Pinks only is a mistake. Do away with winning. the chafing dishes and cook to order as it used MORE GENERA LLY to be. TP Tickets can either be bought online by sending an email with your Your German sausage has not seen Germany Appalled by people’s behaviour at Pinks, and and the saurecraut [sic] was not cooked. It Account Number indicating the number of tickets you would disappointed to have to have breakfast there… I am tasted ok as I was very hungry. PE an overseas Member and come to the Club for the like to buy to mccbilling@mcc.co.ke or purchase your tickets Club, not to come to an average hotel. FP d Why is it that there are never any ice-creams ts NTLY, A D ECISIO N WAS M AD E TO O in the fridge? Also, never any low-fat milk. RH online via our website or App. While I agree with the economic reasons for having b. venue P forI breakfast, I do not agree with …

A KFAST O NonlyLYoneAT N K S… nBRE a Not the place it used to be. WR the argument that economy alone justifies The event will take place on Saturday, 9th December 2023 from of the Once again, Delta Air Lines dispensing with breakfast in the old restaurant in a has stepped up and is donating ard to child-free environment. RS There are only three things wrong with Pinks: 11:30am, followed by a wonderful Christmas Lunch in the Club of all Top Prize in the MCC Christmas st at Pinks only is another a mistake.spectacular Do away with 1. Service.

2. Service.

3. Service. DN Draw 2023.

Dining Room and Centenary Lawn.

No waiters, tables not laid, multiple trips required, eing me dishes and cook as MO REAir G ELines, NE RALLY America’s awarded airline, Delta has donated two no to logicorder to layout,most foodit in used chafing dishes cold, dback table not cleared as food finished, coffee Please reserve your table by emailing the Events Team P Club's return Business Class tickets from Nairobi to any destination in disgusting.AB that events@mcc.co.ke mainland US! Your German sausage has not seen Germany BUT IT WA S N’T A LL B AD… d by people’s behaviour at Pinks, and And [sic]one was lucky not cooked.

It buy that With over 200 destinations in theand USthe to saurecraut choose from, Thank you to the team for a wonderful Red inted to have to have breakfast there… I am tasted ok as I was very hungry.

PE winning ticket!

It made for a special and to MCC Member and a companion,Room willdinner… be traveling in evening luxury,

at Pinks

K

Pinks

seas Member and come to the Club for the a great meal. DB anywhere in the ot to come to an average hotel.

FP United States served by Delta Air Lines.

Why is it that there are never 3any ice-creams www.mcc.co.ke www.mcc.co.ke in the fridge? Also, never any low-fat milk. RH agree with the economic reasons for having e venue for breakfast, I do not agree with Not the place it used to be. WR ument that economy alone justifies ing with breakfast in the old restaurant in a ee environment. RS There are only three things wrong with Pinks: 1. Service. 2. Service. 3. Service. DN The Spa has moved to ers, tables not laid, multiple trips required, tranquil, new, leafy c to layout, food in chafing dishes cold, premises in Cottage 5 ot cleared as food finished, coffee (behind the Secretary’s ng.AB

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April– June 2017 Muthaiga Country Club

The Spa @ Cottage 5

MCC Duka 2.0 Online…

Residence).

Like Amazon, the Club Duka, version 2.0 online is growing from strength to strength and, by popular demand, we are now re-stocking many of the old favourite products including MCC ties and Polo shirts for men and women, and we have a dazzling new selection of Club merch and gift items all locally sourced and crafted.

Along with its new location, the Spa is now offering an inviting selection of new treatments and an enhanced Massage Menu.

BU T IT WA SN’ T ALL B AD…

Thank you to the team for a wonderful Red Room dinner… It made for a special evening and a great meal. DB

Members can now enjoy a range of massages to soothe, hydrate, April– June 2017 Muthaiga Country Club condition, improve circulation, de-stress, relax and generally enhance well-being.

In addition, The Spa has introduced a new Facial Menu and Manicure & Pedicure Treatments will be added in the very near future.Members wishing to book a treatment can do so through the Fitness Centre.

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You can now view our assorted range of original products and place your orders on the MCC website https://www.mcc.co.ke/ Member_Central/Club_Duka and MobiApp.

AGM 2023

Members wishing to have items delivered please provide us with your address and the Club will organise courier dispatch.

Courier charges will be posted to your Club account.

The Annual General Meeting will be held on 16 November this year in the Ballroom at 6pm. All Members are encouraged to attend, either in person, or virtually via our online link, which will be made available nearer the time. The Chairman and Committee members look forward to seeing many of you there.

With Christmas around the corner shop online at your OneStop-Club-Shop for souvenirs and practical, attractive, original gifts from MCC.

Call 0111-190243 or email fitness@mcc.co.ke

www.mcc.co.ke

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October – December 2023 Muthaiga Country Club

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roving eye

Roving Eye Eye has indirectly received interesting correspondence relating to observations made in the last issue and feels compelled to comment further.

Those of a certain age – this quarterly magazine has been published for a long time – will recall that Roving Eye, dressed as a prurient pun, was designed to be a fly-on-thewall, seeing this, hearing that, picking up rumours, pointing out failings, poking fun. In these literal-minded days, it became clear to Eye that offence is now too often taken, even if none (well, not much) was intended. Roving Eye, sometimes invoking the image of a monocle popping from its socket, has exclaimed often enough about changing times, eroding values and gentlemanly virtues being dismissed as old-fashioned. This boomer’s time is over.

Eye now mostly lives abroad, visits the Club infrequently and has evolved from disappointed to dispassionate about

matters that Members used to hold dear. Eye understands the need to move with the times and accepts that what was once honourable is now regarded as quaint at best, irrelevant at worst. Quel fromage, Eye mumbles in her vinous eyrie.

And yet. Some readers evidently do still care that things are not what they were, that some values are worth cherishing, that some matters do, in fact, matter.

And so. Probably breaking some fresh taboo, Members are invited to complement Eye’s diminishing vision by letting Eye know about things around the Club that don’t seem quite right or that might need highlighting.

Between you and Eye, someone might read it and heed it. Feel free to write to rovingeye1923@outlook.com

Letters to the Editor...

Congratulations on yet another graphically attractive, incredibly informative and seductively readable issue of the MCC Magazine. BM Two years on from her last performance at the Club, Cordelia was back at the piano and it was just a crying shame that a truly worldclass performer should have been treated with such disdain. Evidently word had not spread that she was performing and her offer of providing Master Classes to piano-playing Members had not been acted upon.

Worse, it was thoughtless to schedule the event on a Friday evening when the drumbeat of a live band at Pink’s thumped through the Ballroom soon after Cordelia started.

And what a show! This was her first public performance of Schubert’s Symphony in D Major (D959).

In a typically charming introduction, Cordelia explained how it had taken more than a decade for her to truly understand the darkness of the piece, being written in the last months before Schubert’s painful illness got the better of him at the age of 31. The audience was spellbound and the ovation at the end confirmed we had heard something special.

Brilliant Brahms began and light Prokofiev ended a wonderful evening. If ever there’s a next time, let’s hope a programme might be printed and flowers presented. Still, the Club’s loss was non-Members’ gain, and the Master Classes she gave in the preceding three days, free of charge to up-and-coming local pianists, were the envy of many. JB 4

Muthaiga Country Club October – December 2023

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A note from Mr Flint invites me to “opt out” of receiving a printed copy of the Club Quarterly Magazine. However, if I still wish to receive a hard copy then I must send an email to say so. In other words, I am going to be automatically opted out, unless I specifically request not to be. This is disingenuous in the extreme and will have hoodwinked anyone who a) doesn’t read their emails carefully or b) is over the age of about 60. GD I very much enjoy receiving the quarterly magazine which is surely one of the most professionally-produced of its kind and demonstrates the finest qualities of our Club. Yet now, in order to conserve the planet – or, dare I say, to cut costs? – it can now only be read in ‘digital’ format. How sad. NF I understand you are planning to stop printing the magazine. How do you propose that we should read it? Unless you find a new way of presenting the online version – and it would be helpful to see an example of how this would look – then you might as well stop publishing the magazine at all, since, without a very large screen, the magazine is unreadable in its current online format. CW My daughter tells me that I will no longer be receiving a printed copy of the Club Magazine because I have somehow been opted out. How and when did that happen? DP

www.mcc.co.ke

16/10/2023 16:14

balloting committee One takeaway from this was that many of our Young Members are still under their parents’ emails and/or mobile numbers and do not, in many cases, receive communication regarding events held during their holidays.

Tongue in cheek, being a parent maybe sometimes deliberate in the best interests of all.

Dear Members, I hope that you all had a restful summer break and for those who visited Europe managed the heat wave.

We hosted a wonderful Young Members (18-29 years) meeting in August and, as always, so inspiring to meet such smart and confident young adults who will be future leaders of our Club and hopefully country.

Having said that, we kindly request that you pass onto the Secretariat their contacts as, not only are they missing out on some wonderful events meticulously planned and prepared by the Young Members committee during their holidays, but making new friends too.

A win-win for all!

2. No application, irrespective of the category of Membership, can proceed without payment of the minimum one third entrance fees, and final confirmation of Membership will only given upon receipt of full entrance fees.

3. Keep an eye on all candidates applying in the monthly newsletter, or on the bulletin board, and please write into the Membership Secretariat should you have any concerns.

Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful last quarter and Season’s Greetings in advance.

Best wishes,

A couple of polite reminders:1. Full town Membership waiting period 18 - 24 months from time of receiving application.

Kush Bhardwaj Chairman Balloting Committee

COMPETITION Answer to our July - September 2023 Competition QUESTION: What is the name of this street? And what happened here in 1905?

ANSWER:Victoria Street (now Tom Mboya Street) In 1905 the Stanley Hotel burnt down.

WINNER: Prof. Sudhir Vinayak

DID YOU KNOW?

Question: Who is this Kenyan, why is he famous, and what is his connection to which MCC Member?

(Clue on Page 6)

Prize: The first correct entry that we receive will win dinner for two with a bottle of House Wine in either Pinks or the Club Dining Room. Please send your answers to communications@mcc.co.ke

www.mcc.co.ke

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The Stanley Hotel (now called the Sarova Stanley) is the oldest hotel in the city, having been established in 1902 by English businesswoman Mayence Bent, when the city was a railway halt. It is named after Sir Henry Morton Stanley, a Welsh explorer who is best known for his explorations of central Africa and his successful search for missionary and explorer David Livingston.

Since the early 1900s, the Stanley Hotel was known as the traditional meeting place for those going on safari in Kenya. It has played host to royalty, politicians, movie stars, and authors. The Thorn Tree Café, named for the original acacia tree, was used for years by travellers passing through Nairobi, as a message post.

In 1905 a fire destroyed much of Victoria Street (now Tom Mboya Street), and the Stanley Hotel.

In 1908 Mayence married Frederick Tate, and together they built a new hotel on Delamere Avenue - the “New Stanley Hotel” was opened in 1913.

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staff news

WE THREE CHEFS OF MYSA ARE… Bob Munro, Founder of MYSA and legend in his own lifetime to countless young Kenyans who have risen out of the slums and gone on to great futures in sport, business, law, education, hospitality and politics, is pictured here, in the Club kitchens, with three of his very successful protégés from MYSA, Vincent Obote, Executive Chef Joseph Macharia and Robinson Wanaswa, serving up a very symbolic football.

In 1987 Bob founded the Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA) in one of Africa’s largest and poorest slums, using sport in combination with community outreach and development activities to give young Kenyans the skills and confidence they need to aim higher, achieve more and build brighter futures for themselves.

There are now over 150,000 MYSA members and alumni in Kenya and abroad - and three of them can be found in the kitchens at MCC. At his 80th birthday party, which he celebrated at the Club with family and friends from Norway, Executive Chef Joseph Macharia, Sous Chef Robinson Wanaswa and Pastry Chef Vincent Ombete designed and served a special menu for Bob. The Norwegians were so amazed by the superb food that, after dessert and a ceremonial cake, they insisted the three chefs return for a vote of thanks and a huge round of applause.

Chef Macharia thanked them, but he then astonished everyone (except Bob) by informing them that he, Robinson and Vincent were all MYSA alumni.

As teenagers, they had all played sport for MYSA, and while Chef Macharia’s football career was short, Robinson and Vincent went on to join the Premier League as promising young players. They all met, prophetically, during the Hotel Tournament Challenge – a fiercely contested inter-hotel football tournament held in Kenya – and are now all senior members of the Club’s exceptional catering team.

“Bob Munro really mentored young Kenyans to succeed. He taught us all a sound work ethic and helped us to believe in ourselves and trust in our abilities.” MCC Executive Chef Joseph Macharia Bob Munro and his wife Ingrid were recently conferred Honorary Life Membership of MCC.

Star of the Season

Titus Matheka – Front of House

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY COMMITTEE After a four-day training course for sixteen employees representing all the departments, a staff Occupational Health & Safety Committee (OHSC) has been formed as a requirement by the Kenya Occupational Health and Safety Act, to provide health, safety and welfare for all personnel present in the workplace. OHSC representatives from all sixteen departments are pictured above.

Our Star of the Season is Titus Matheka who is a valuable member of the Front of House Team.

He was recently singled out by a Member and his visitors as a true gentleman and commended for his unwavering assistance throughout their stay at MCC. Extremely polite and unstintingly helpful with Members and visiting guests, Titus is a well-liked and much-respected member of the MCC team.

Departmental Fire Safety Training Staff members from each department took part in a Fire Safety Training course and Fire Drill in order to familiarise themselves with the different fire extinguishing techniques and procedures.

With Guy Fawkes Night and the MCC Fireworks display coming up, this seems quite timely!

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Muthaiga Country Club October – December 2023

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www.mcc.co.ke

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events

Shirlene Obara The remarkably talented 15-year-old Shirlene Obara, held the audience spellbound with her live performance of Brahms Violin Sonata No. 1.

She is pictured here with Edita Camm and Club Chairman Philip Coulson (far right) and her accompanying musicians.

Quiz Night MCC Member Mick Svinos (second left) and his team The Legionnaires - winners of the last Quiz Night - are pictured here with Quiz Master and Co-founder of Procera Gin, Guy Brennan (far right) with their prize of Procera Gin in a collectable engraved bottle, complete with tonic and a lemon all set to celebrate their win!

Mick & The Legionnaires will be hosting the next Quiz Night on 8 November 2023.

Book your team now for some good, enlightening fun.

‘Tipsy Tea Party’ The ‘Tipsy Tea Party’, organised and hosted by the Young Members Committee, was a tremendous success.

The afternoon began with High Tea and refreshments and soared to High Spirits, dancing and merry-making!

MINI MEMBERS’ COOKING CLASS Mini Members enjoyed an afternoon of kitchen capers with a Pancake Master Class given by MCC’s multi-talented Chefs. The kids’ class was a delicious success and all the children took home their own fantasy pancake!

www.mcc.co.ke

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October – December 2023 Muthaiga Country Club

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events

Trick or Treat?

MCC will be holding a scary Halloween Party for kids

Guy Fawkes Night 4 November 2023 MCC will set the evening alight with

With prizes for the most thrilling costumes.

Big Bonfire

Fun activities, lots of freeky Treats and gruesome Refreshments!

Food Stalls and Bar

Saturday 28 October 2023

Spectacular Fireworks

from 12 noon on Pinks Lawn

& at the Tennis Courts from 6pm All Members and Friends welcome!

Travelling Telescope

The Travelling Telescope One beautiful, cloudless African night, with a skyful of stars and a magnificent moon, some 90 Members and their friends embarked on a spectacular cosmic journey through the galaxies, with the Travelling Telescope team.

HISTORY OF NAIROBI CITY PLAYERS

This powerful telescope magnifies beyond the realms of earth and, those who plunged into the stars on this celestial mission, were beamed all the way to heaven.

And back.

Travelling Telescope

Hugh Epsom, eldest son of Life Member Mary Epsom and the late Brian Epsom, (erstwhile Committee Member and co-founder of the Nairobi City Players) gave a wonderful talk and presentation on the history of this longstanding amateur theatre company, who have entertained Nairobi audiences for over 58 years. MCC has been a great supporter and has hosted numerous NCP productions over the decades for the entertainment of Club Members.

Hugh gave the presentation to raise funds to create an archive of the history of NCP as part of Nairobi’s heritage.

Mary Epsom is pictured above with fellow Life Member Steve Mills.

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Muthaiga Country Club October – December 2023

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www.mcc.co.ke

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events

Popsy Bar Take-Over Celebrity Bartender and Cocktail Specialist, Alessandro Palazzi of Duke’s Hotel London, will be staging a not-so-hostile takeover of the Popsy Bar for three nights from Thursday 2 November.

As one of the world’s most famous barmen and creator of the legendary ‘Shaken Not Stirred’ Vesper Martini favoured by 007, Alessandro will be shaking up the Popsy Bar with some high spirits and stirring up a storm in a cocktail shaker.

On Friday 3 November Alessandro will be guest of honour at MCC’s James Bond Black Tie Dinner where he will be concocting no-timeto-die-for cocktails mixed with all-African spirits to pair with the sumptuous, specially devised 007 menu.

On Saturday 4 November, the Maestro of Martinis will be hosting a Cocktail Master Class sharing his unplumbed knowledge and throwing some light, a spritz of lemon and possibly an olive or two, into how to mix the perfect cocktail for any occasion.

This event will be limited to 20 participants so wannabe mixologists must sign up quickly to avoid disappointment.

For any of these events please book through events@mcc.co.ke

MCC Poppy Ball 10 November 2023 7pm till Late

(in aid of the British Legion Kenya)

MCC Remembrance Day Service will be held on Saturday 11 November at 10.30am

at the War Memorial.

All Members & Friends Welcome.

www.mcc.co.ke

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PINKY BLINDERS CLUB RACING SYNDICATE With a two-year-old filly called Venetian Link now in the starting stalls, the Club racing syndicate is under starter’s orders for their maiden race.

Raised from thoroughbred racing stock by Members Gilly and Tom Fraser in Naivasha, Venetian Link carries the hopes of success for the Pinky Blinders, the small but determined Club racing syndicate, and an equally small and determined jockey, proudly wearing the new pink and green MCC silks.

Racing season at Ngong Race Course has started and Venetian Link will make her debut appearance on the track on 15 October in the two furlong flat race. We wish her and the Pinky Blinders success in her maiden run.

October – December 2023 Muthaiga Country Club

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forthcoming events

The Nairobi Chamber Chorus Founded as a choral singing ensemble in 2005, the Nairobi Chamber Chorus (NCC) has become an outstanding musical platform for young Kenyans seeking to advance their careers and enhance their knowledge and interest in the arts. Since it began, over 70 young people have participated and many are now leading musicians in Kenya, performing and teaching music across the country and beyond.

NCC has participated in a number of highly acclaimed musical tours and overseas initiatives, including a spectacular performance at Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee Pagent at Windsor Castle in the United Kingdom in May 2012.

MCC is delighted to be hosting the Nairobi Chamber Chorus for a live Christmas Concert on 15 December 2023.

Book early as this will be a sell-out performance.

OCTOBER 2023

Heritage Presents… – Talk by Simon Thomas & Tom Lawrence Tennis – MCC Cup of Nations Championship Bowls Ballet Night – ‘Carmen Flamenco’ Whisky Night – Whisky Pairing and Dinner Duplicate Bridge – Partners only Club Night – Happy Hour (50% off all drinks) Hallowe’een – Trick or Treat for Kids

14 October, Ballroom, 6pm.

15 October, Tennis Courts, 9am.

NOVEMBER 2023

Squash – Social Mix-in Bar TakeOver – by World Famous Barman Alessandro Palazzi Black Tie Dinner – James Bond Theme Cocktail Master Class – with Celebrity Barman Alessandro Palazzi Guy Fawkes Night – Bonfire & Fireworks Social Bridge – All players welcome & Cream Tea Quiz Night – Hosted by the ‘Legionnaires’ Poppy Ball – In aid of British Legion Kenya Remembrance Day – Remembrance Service Book Club Meet – ‘My Life in Full’ by Indra Nooyi MCC AGM Tennis – Members vs Staff Challenge Film Night – ‘The Life of Tchaikovsky’ Club Night – Happy Hour (50% off all drinks) Live Concert – Harp & Guitar with Chris & Maire Duplicate Bridge – Partners only & Cream Tea

1 November, Squash Courts, 4.30pm.

2 November, Popsy Bar, 5pm.

3 November, Main Dining Room, 7pm.

4 November, Popsy Bar, 5pm.

4 November, Tennis Courts, from 6pm.

6 November, Ballroom, 1.15pm – 4.30pm.

8 November, Ballroom, 6.30pm 10 November, Ballroom, 7pm onwards.

11 November, War Memorial, 10.30am 14 November, Blue Room, 6pm.

16 November, Ballroom, 5pm.

19 November, Tennis Courts, 9am.

23 November, Ballroom, 6pm.

24 November, Popsy Bar, 5–7pm.

25 November, Ballroom, 6pm.

27 November, Ballroom, 1.15pm – 4.30pm.

DECEMBER 2023

Fo r t h c o m i ng E v e n t s D i a r y

Tennis – Christmas Crackers Tournament Social Bridge – All players welcome Squash – Social Mix-in Ballet Night – Double Bill ‘Still Life at the Penguin Café’ & ‘L’Enfant et le Sortilege’ Christmas Draw – Christmas Draw & Lunch Live Christmas Concert – Nairobi Chamber Chorus Duplicate Bridge – Partners only Children’s Christmas Party Christmas Carols Service Christmas Day Lunch Boxing Day Buffet NYE Ball NYD Brunch

3 December, Tennis Courts, 9am.

4 December, Ballroom, 1.15pm – 4.30pm.

6 December, Squash Courts, 4.30pm.

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19 October, Ballroom, 6pm.

19 October, Blue Room, 6.30pm.

23 October, Ballroom, 1.30pm – 4.30pm.

27 October, Popsy Bar, 5–7pm.

28 October, Pinks Lawn, 12noon onwards.

7 December, Ballroom, 6pm.

9 December, Centenary Lawn, 11.30am 15 December, Ballroom, 6pm.

18 December, Ballroom, 1.30pm – 4.30pm.

16 December, Pinks Lawn, 12.30pm.

17 December, Ballroom, 6pm onwards.

25 December, Club Dining Room & Centenary Lawn, 12.30pm.

26 December, Pinks & Poolside, 12.30pm.

31 December, Dining Room, Pinks & Poolside, 7pm onwards.

1 January 2023, Pinks & Poolside, 11.30 onwards.

Dates and times of events were correct at the time of going to press. They may change post printing so please check with the Events Office when making your bookings.

15 December 2023

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squash

British Scoring Tournament

Dates and times of events were correct at the time of going to press. They may change post printing so please check with the Events Office when making your bookings.

With 12 entrants the Squash Section held the British Scoring Tournament over three days at the Club squash courts in June. The winner of the Bowl tournament was Joseph Kariuki, the winner of the Plate was Safina Madhani, and Kunal Bid beat Kavan Shah to win the overall title.

Joseph Kariuki collecting the Bowl trophy from losing finalist Rienye Nyika.

Plate Winner Safina Madhani and losing finalist Anish Harkani with Captain Kunal Bid.

MCC Coach John Mbuvi Mutua with French Junior Champion Khaled Jousselin.

July Social Mix-in In July we had a very special Social Mix-in and were joined by two celebrity guests, former professional player and International Squash Coach Bertrand Tissot, and French Junior Champion Khaled Jousselin.

Members had the opportunity to play against Khaled, who systematically took us all to the cleaners with his extraordinary movement and skill. Later, our accredited coach John Mbuvi Mutua, took him on in an Exhibition match which Khaled won with ease 3-0.

Pictured above - French Junior Champion Khaled Jousselin and International Squash Coach Bertrand Tissot second and third from right respectively, with the French Ambassador Arnaud Suquet third left, together with members of MCC Squash section.

And remember, our Social Mix-ins continue on the first It was a wonderful occasion for all the members who participated to be able to observe and learn from such brilliant and experienced Wednesday of every month (the next one will be held on players and we are hoping to have more events of this nature in the 1 November) and any new players are most welcome to join in. future. www.mcc.co.ke

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bowls The Bowls Section kicked off September with the annual Poppy Bowls fundraiser for the British Legion and the Askari Fund, which was arranged by Jenny Larby and her daughter Kerin. A Spoon for the regular bowlers was followed by an introductory session for new bowlers. We hope that some of them will return to bowl again.

The annual Handicap Singles attracted 12 players. Yolanda Andersen swept aside the competition with three convincing wins.

The losing finalist was Gerry Cunningham whose recovery came too little too late. The trophy, given in memory of the late John Fowler, was presented to Yolanda by Oliver and Sheryl Fowler (pictured below.)

The third edition of the Willie Watson Invitation Trophy drew five home teams and seven visitors. Saturday was set aside for qualifiers which went well into the evening with the assistance of the new floodlights. The 12 teams were then placed in the Cup, the Plate and the Bowl.

The final of the Cup was a contest between Karen’s Shirley Scroggie, David Salmon and Andrew Jones and Muthaiga’s Lesley Mullan, Andrew Hollas and Maureen Burns. Muthaiga took an early lead but in the end the Willie Watson Trophy went to Karen for the second time in three years. The prizes were presented by the man himself Willie Watson and his daughter Sheenagh Dryden.

Winners of the Willie Watson Invitation from left - Shirley Scroggie, Willie Watson, David Salmon and Andrew Jones.

MCC hosted the Caledonian Society Challenge in a 10-a-side match, which went in favour of the Club by two games to one. Special mention should be made of Marion Weston and her Caledonian team who played some excellent bowls for a comfortable win.

Dougie Duncanson & Oliver Fowler with the Caledonian Trophy.

The greens will be closed on 13 December until mid-January for annual maintenance. New bowlers are always welcome and, with the new floodlights, Members can enjoy a longer evening on the greens to relax after a busy day.

BOWLS COACHING

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Coaching is now available for all ages at the Bowling Green.

14 - 15 October - Club Singles

The Club has acquired bowls for juniors and has a good stock of bowls for beginners. Costs are Shs 1,000/- per one hour session.

Please book in advance.

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4 - 5 November - The Mackenzie Shield MCC vs Karen 18 - 19 November - Club Pairs Sunday 3 December - Allan Collis Memorial Bowls 10 December – Ladies vs Gents www.mcc.co.ke

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tennis Junior News Junior Member Liya Gikunda (11) who hit her first tennis ball on Muthaiga’s courts aged four, continues to build her track record as a top junior player in Kenya. Ranked number 1 by Tennis Kenya in the U12 category (winning her most recent U12 National Ranking Tournament in September), she led the U12 National team to compete in the East African Zonals in Kampala in July this year. The team came second, beating Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Seychelles, narrowly losing 2:1 to Burundi in the tie. Silver was enough for Liya and team to qualify for the U12 African Junior Tennis Championships in Morocco, where they will travel to compete in October 2023. Our very best wishes to Liya and the U12 Kenya team.

MCC Wimbledon In our Annual MCC Wimbledon Mixed Doubles Championship, 16 players were divided equally into two graded pools. Four teams, comprising a pair from each pool, were named after the four top men’s Wimbledon title-holders. The tournament winners were Team Borg 1st Pair - Yan Welffens & Tamara Krautkramer and 2nd Pair - Armaan Moledina & Anu Bhardwaj (pictured left).

Herring Cup Once again MCC hosted the annual Herring Cup tournament, which has been running since 1924, with interruptions only during WWII and Covid.

This year five teams participated, namely Karen, Kilifi, Nanyuki, MCC and Red Herrings. Each Club fielded four mixed-doubles pairs who competed against each other in four graded pools. With just a one point difference going into the final round, the MCC team put in a strong finish to retain the Herring Cup for the fifth year running.

Club Secretary Michael Flint with the MCC Herring Cup Team From left - Naomi, Katharina, Biju, Harold, Aida, Yan, Katarina and Troels.

On a sad note, the tennis community mourned the passing of former Tennis Captain John Goodwin, on 27 August 2023. John is remembered as a wonderful gentleman who was full of humour, wit and tennis wisdom, and for being caring, helpful and passionate about tennis until the last.

This year’s Herring Cup tournament and the MCC team’s win were dedicated to his memory. www.mcc.co.ke

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FORTHCOMING TENNIS TOURNAMENTS FIXTURES 15 OCTOBER

Cup of Nations

19 NOVEMBER

Members vs. Staff

3 DECEMBER

Christmas Crackers Aida Kimemia Nesbitt Tennis Captain

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In 1224, Genghis Khan the legendary Mongol warlord and the greatest conqueror ever known established the world’s first long-distance messaging system to keep his far-flung armies in communication. Using a massive network of horse stations, or ‘urtuus’, his hardy messengers could gallop from Kharkhorin (the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire) to the Caspian sea – a distance of 4000km.

For ten days each August, the Mongol Derby recreates this epic messaging system, building a network of urtuus at 30km intervals along a 1000km route through the Mongolian Steppe, earning itself the reputation for being the longest, hardest horse race in the world.

This year, out of 43 starters from around the world, only 27 crossed the finish line and three of them were MCC Members Chyulu Francombe, Aisha Gross and Keren Dunn – who became the first Kenyans to finish the race.

The Mongol Derby Riding for Lives

Here Chyulu recounts their adventures…

With ten days to complete the 1000km ride competitors have to cover between 90 to 120km a day, which means we were spending up to 12 hours a day in the saddle mostly at a canter. The course consists of 29 urtuu at 30-40km intervals where riders swap their horses and refuel, as did the messengers for Genghis Khan. The exact course changes every year and is kept secret until shortly before the race begins. With no marked course, riders have to navigate themselves across the rugged terrain which includes some unforgiving high mountain passes, open valleys, rolling wooded hills, river crossings, deadly bogs and floodplains, sandy semi-arid dunes and open Steppe.

Riders must change horses at every uurtu station and horses are drawn through a lottery system. There are vet checks at each station to monitor the condition of the horses, and the vets impose time penalties and sometimes rider disqualification if the riders push their horses too hard. The horses themselves are semi-wild, adding one more level of difficulty to the event.

Known for their strength and stamina, these little horses once carried the all-conquering Mongol warriors halfway across the world.

The controls are rudimentary, but they are unfazed by the changing elements and rugged terrain, and they are revered in Mongol culture.

The health and safety of the horses is priority and they undergo a Derby training programme to prepare for the race.

Naturally, some mounts are faster than others but they are all only semi-broken and it took survival skills just to mount them, horsemanship to stay on board and tenacity to maintain a steady pace.

The vets impose time penalties and sometimes rider disqualification if the riders push their horses too hard.

Chyulu and Aisha were awarded the Vets’ Prize for no penalties over 1300 km and 30 different horses.

Keren Dunn 14 Muthaiga Country Club October – December 2023

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To prepare for the race some of our training was done online with ‘The Riders’ Programme’ who kindly offered their training because of the charities we were supporting. They focused on core stability

Along stay w Famili basic f knowl noma by the consti ferme noodl Local Mongol Herders and mental work, which is as key to surviving as being able to stay on. We did several 20km rides and managed one 60km ride, but it was difficult getting long enough canters in, especially for Aisha who works in London - but actually, nothing prepares you for the real thing.

I broke my arm five months before the Derby and the bone set badly leaving me three months to get fit. We also had to learn how to use a GPS, but our biggest concern was working out what equipment to pack – we were only allowed to carry 5kg of essential survival kit, and weigh no more than 85kg when dressed to ride and Mongolian weather can feel like you’re riding in Mombasa one minute and on the top of Mt Kenya the next.

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The w entire ached the sta also di a hand still, w - all th this ye mind. kilome the ho worryi your G trip fo seriou

The course was a 1000km, but most riders clocked 1300km as n www.mcc.co.ke

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Derby

how was we ial 5kg eather one e next.

Steppe and Hoof is a non-profit organisation, established to help the nomadic herders and their animals in Mongolia who depend solely on their livestock for their existence. Steppe and Hoof works to try and save the unique traditions that are part of the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle.

We finished in nine days and came in ninth.

So far we have raised £10,000 for our two charities and at the end of the race, we were acknowledged as the riders who cared for their horses the best.

Aisha Gross, Chyulu Fancombe and Keren Dunn - the first Kenyans to complete the Mongol Derby.

Along the course of the race, riders either stay with local nomads or camp out.

Families who take in the riders provide basic food, accommodation and local knowledge, but don’t speak any English. The nomadic Steppe cuisine laid a few riders by the wayside - luckily our good Kenyan constitutions survived well on drinking fermented mare’s milk and a lot of mutton noodle soup.

Ten days of riding fast was the hardest ever endurance test on our bodies. A few days in, when we realised just how far 1000km is, the end looked unmanageable and everything hurt.

The worst part was the marmot holes - the entire Steppe is full of them and our brains ached from dodging them! Changing horses at the stations when there were other riders was also difficult – trying to mount a new horse with a handful of Mongolian herders holding him still, while other riders were being bucked off - all the while the latest medevac story (eleven this year) is dancing around in the back of your mind. And then, once aboard, the first few kilometres was an out of control gallop while the horse got used to a strange rider and you’re worrying whether you could risk glancing at your GPS and could you hold your bathroom trip for 40km, because getting off ran the serious risk of not being able to get back on.

It was also really frustrating when one of us drew a slow horse and we lost the good ground we’d made on a previous leg, or got lost and were overtaken.

Day 7 brought us our biggest dramas and we lost Keren to a drip for 24-hours, but she bounced back and was able to finish with Aisha and I, still having ridden over 1200 km.

So why would anyone do this? Because the highs were monumental. And just participating in such a difficult, exhilarating event, on semi-wild horses, through such spectacular landscapes was a massive buzz, and when we had good horses and were able to cover a lot of ground and achieve our daily target, it was epic! Sharing the simple lifestyle and ancient culture of the nomadic Mongolian people for a few days was also amazing.

“It was by far the hardest endurance challenge any of us have ever been through, both physically and mentally, but it was also the most exhilarating and triumphant. We’re so glad to have been able to take part and to have finished successfully for a good cause.

Mongolia is a beautiful land and we are so lucky to have experienced it as the local nomadic Mongol herders do. The horses were incredible, they were ‘pint sized power houses,’ I understand now how they were the core of the fearsome Mongol army. It was an absolute honour to ride them - we never drew a horse that couldn’t meet the challenge - but each one challenged us in every way possible.”

Chyulu Francombe

But we took on the challenge to raise awareness of two very special organisations; one close to home in Kenya and one in Mongolia, both working with ancient nomadic peoples in a changing wilderness.

The Samburu Trust was started by MCC Member Julia Francombe in 2000, to help the local tribes people and protect the wildlife and the land. It now covers over one million acres of Samburuland, helping to safeguard the Samburu people and their ancient culture Chyulu Francombe with one of her Mongol mounts.

Photos by Kathy Gabriel

viving 20km it rs in, on r the

and empower entire communities to protect wildlife and wild places.

cked 1300km as nothing was as simple as, ‘as the crow flies.’ www.mcc.co.ke

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members honours

SHAMINI JAYANATHAN OBE MCC Member Shamini Jayanathan has been awarded an OBE (Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in recognition of her work in strengthening the rule of law across East and Southern Africa.

Shamini is a criminal barrister (called to the Bar in 1996) and an associate tenant at Foundry Chambers, London, a ‘legal 500’ set. She is CEO of Arcturus Consultancy in Nairobi, and leads a team of lawyers across Africa in the delivery of rule of law programmes for clients all over the world.

“I was surprised and honoured to be nominated in the King’s Birthday Honours List this year. This is a very welcome acknowledgement of the importance of working to improve the rule of law, and the collaboration of all the excellent African lawyers with whom I’ve worked over the years.”

Most of Shamini’s work has been delivered in the area of international wildlife trafficking but also in human trafficking and more generally, criminal trial procedure.

Her work in wildlife crime has involved shifting the emphasis away from a heavy reliance on frontline protection and more towards using prosecution and the courts, reviewing the applicable law and defining solutions to strengthen prosecutions, speed up trials and enhance proportionate and consistent sentencing.

Shamini received her OBE from HRH Prince William at Windsor Castle in June this year, in recognition of her services to the rule of law and international development.

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members honours

IAN CRAIG HONOURED WITH THE PRINCE WILLIAM AWARD FOR CONSERVATION IN AFRICA 2022 For his dedication and exceptional contribution to wildlife conservation in Africa, MCC Member Ian Craig was presented with the 2022 Prince William Life Time Achievement Award for Conservation in Africa.

Ian was born in the Cottage Hospital in Nanyuki and brought up on Lewa.

At the peak of the elephant and rhino poaching epidemic, in the early 1980’s, Ian converted his family’s 63,000-acre cattle ranch into a rhino sanctuary, which flourished and was later re-established as Lewa Wildlife Conservancy – a communityfocused conservancy, tourism enterprise and haven for endangered wildlife species.

Ian’s vision propelled Lewa to great success and the Conservancy has grown to become a world-renowned model for conservation, protecting endangered species and promoting the development of neighbouring communities.

During his 26-year tenure of Lewa, not a single rhino was lost to poaching – a success Ian puts down to carefully nurtured relationships with the neighbouring communities.

In 2004 Ian promoted the formation of the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) an umbrella organisation uniting 44

community conservancies, spread across 63,000 square kilometres of northern Kenya and the north Kenya coastline adjoining Somalia, supporting local communities in conservation, wildlife protection, monitoring and research, livestock management and economic development.

declining populations of Hirola – one of the world’s rarest antelope.

As the founder and first CEO of NRT, Ian has been the catalyst for dozens of pioneering wildlife conservation initiatives.

Among many other ground-breaking projects, Ian chaired a UK based Charity,“Stop Ivory” to champion the political process in support of the International bans on the sale of ivory, conceived the idea of an elephant underpass running beneath the busy A2 national highway reconnecting an ancient migratory route between the Ngare Ndare Forest and Mount Kenya enabling Lewa to be designated as a world Heritage site; he was the guru behind Sera Conservancy setting up Kenya’s first community-owned black rhino sanctuary; and he spearheaded a project in Garissa County to boost

In Swahili, the word ‘Conservancy’ has now found its own definition – meaning bringing people together, improving security and giving young people jobs. Ian believes that the future of free-ranging wildlife in Kenya moving between forests, National Parks, community, and private land, rests in the hands of communities empowered through conservation.

The 2022 Prince William Life Time Achievement Award is the latest Ian has received for his extraordinary contributions to conservation, having previously being honoured with the Order of the Moran of the Burning Spear (MBS)

by President Kibaki and an OBE from Her Majesty the Queen.

In October, he was also bestowed the 2022 Scientific Exploration Society (SES) Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognises and celebrates those individuals who have achieved great successes and whose passion, determination and grit inspire all.

“Today, conservation is about people and unity, not only animals. Place the focus on people and conservation will happen. Through the Northern Rangelands Trust a model has evolved placing communities at the forefront of conservation. The community-conservancy movement now benefits not just hundreds of thousands of people, we’re talking of over one million people seeing the benefits of conservation in Northern Kenya whilst reversing the declining trends in wildlife” Ian Craig Founder and Chief of Conservation NRT Recipient of the 2022 Prince William Life Time Achievement Award for Conservation in Africa www.mcc.co.ke

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members' Achievements

The Vanessa Grant Trust There is an inspirational project in the Rift Valley that has seen thousands of children educated, uplifted and empowered during the last 25 years. It is a story of resilience and perseverance in honour and memory of Vanessa Grant, a remarkable and much-loved former Member of the Club, who died on the eve of her 37th birthday in 1997.

Born and raised near Nakuru, Vanessa (née Kingsford) was educated at St Andrew’s Turi and then in Australia before returning to Kenya to work as a teacher and, a few years later, marrying MCC Member Hamish Grant. Together they took over the management of Gogar Farm, Hamish’s family farm, and set up successful dairy processing and safari businesses.

Vanessa was determined that more should be done for the many disadvantaged children in the community who, through lack of resources and opportunities, were largely denied basic education and care. Her natural warmth, enthusiasm for and commitment to equal opportunities for women, drew many people to her ideas about the need for education and opportunity for girls and young women. Vanessa planned to renovate rundown classrooms in the long-established farm Primary school and to build alongside it a school for children with special needs. And then she was gone.

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The Vanessa Grant Trust (VGT) was founded in her memory and to honour her commitment. What has been achieved since then is hugely impressive: a Primary school, a Special Needs school, a girls’ boarding Secondary School, a Nursery school, a Vocational Training Centre, and a school for children with limited or no speech. The schools have built reputations for providing highest quality education and life-skills for the community around Rongai.

The first project undertaken by the VGT is a residential public school for 40 children with special needs. Opened in 2000, the Vanessa Grant Special School (VGSS) has recently been described as a model special needs school, with some of the best equipped facilities in Kenya. The children are involved in a diverse range of activities, in the classroom and outdoors, to broaden their skill levels. Carers develop strong links with parents to learn how best to support handicapped children – emotionally, financially and physically. Teachers have been trained by RDA Kenya and riding takes place weekly. An Occupational Therapist and a professional Music Therapist offer valuable support and pre-vocational skill training include weaving, bead work, sewing and IT with appropriate software.

When it became clear there was no suitable place for the children from the VGSS to go, once they had grown and needed to move on, a residential Vocational Training School for 40 boys and girls was built, providing training in cookery, computing, hair dressing and general life skills. www.mcc.co.ke

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members' Achievements

Vanessa Grant Girls’ School (VGGS) VGGS is the biggest of the Vanessa Grant Trust projects and is a selective, residential, not-for-profit school for girls of secondary age. The Trust provides as many assisted places as possible for bright girls from challenged backgrounds.

Currently, almost half the pupils are provided with fee support. As the well-worn proverb has it, “educate a man, you educate an individual; educate a woman, you educate a nation”. By this token, this country has a lot going for it, with more than 1,000 young ladies already having passed through the VGGS, and 300 girls currently attending this secondary boarding school.

The most recent of VGT projects, Flames of Hope is the brainchild of former Head Teacher at the Vanessa Grant Special School, Naomi Ndungu, and has enjoyed success in enabling children with little or no speech to be able to communicate. This is a residential school that also accepts nursery age children daily and was opened in 2018.

Gogar Primary School has been running since 1946 but by the time Vanessa found it some 50 years later, it was in a state of disrepair with 300 children sitting in ragged uniform on a dusty floor. Today, thanks to generous support from the VGT, children from across the district, looking smart

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and purposeful, all seated at desks, all cheerful – as well they should be, their results being among the best in the division.

Gogar Primary School is linked to a school in the UK and additional fund-raising has seen facilities refurbished and new classrooms built. Boasting a large hall, library, staffroom, computer room, kitchen, renovated latrines and fresh water supply, numbers have increased threefold to host nearly 900 day students.

A Volunteer Programme welcomes young people from all over the world to work in one of the six schools supported by the VGT. The trust has built secure and comfortable accommodation in the middle of Gogar Farm and, to date, over 200 volunteers have benefited from the programme. It is an extraordinary legacy of a remarkable lady that, supported by volunteers and fund-raisers from the UK, Canada and Australia, the VGT continues to enhance education and care for countless thousands in the Rongai community.

And quietly in the background, driving the whole programme forward, is Hamish Grant’s life-long friend and fellow Member, Johnny Onslow. Preferring not to be in the limelight, his efforts were nonetheless recognised in the Queen’s last Birthday Honours and rewarded recently by His Majesty the King in a ceremony at Windsor Castle. More details in the next issue of this magazine.

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edita’s ballet and opera programme

Ballet – ‘CARMEN Flamenco’ The story of Carmen – the most popular opera in the world – has been told through many media including opera, classical ballet, musical and plain feature films. It is now re-enacted in, what is no doubt, its most suitable media - FLAMENCO! This is achieved by using the original glorious Bizet music with some extracts of traditional Flamenco music by Llorec Barber. Featuring dancers of the “Ballet Teatro Espagnol” choreographed by Rafael Aguilar.

On Thursday 19th October 2023 at 6.for 6.30 in the Ballroom

Film and Canapés: Members: KES 2,100 Members’ guests: KES 2,500 dinner charges KES 1,950

‘CARMEN Flamenco’ will be screened on 19 October, in the Ballroom, at 6pm.

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For booking: events@mcc.co.ke; or +254 20 7229208 This is a fund raising event for

Film – ‘The life of TCHAIKOVSKY’ A tortured man, unhappy except in his music, Tchaikovsky marries Nina Milukova on the strength of her passionate love letter to him. He sees a romantic parallel with his opera “Eugen Onegin”. When he is unable to fulfill the demands of matrimony, his tensions become so great that he attempts suicide and has a nervous breakdown. Nina’s world also falls apart and she deteriorates into madness.

‘The life of TCHAIKOVSKY’ will be screened on 23 November, in the Ballroom, at 6pm.

DOUBLE BILL Ballet - ‘L’Enfant et le Sortilege’

Ballet - ‘Still Life at the Penguin Café A colourful host of endangered animals seek shelter from the storm in Noah’s ark. Featuring a morris-dancing flea, a ballroom-dancing ram, a hoe-downing rat, a majestic zebra and many more. All danced to Simon Jeffes’s delightful score, originally composed for the Penguin Café Orchestra, and choreography by David Bintley, this is an unforgettable, witty, yet bittersweet and poignant look at human impact on the world.

Double Bill - ‘L’Enfant et le Sortilege’ and ‘Still Life at the Penguin Café will be screened on 7 December, in the Ballroom, at 6pm.

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Described as a ‘ballet-opera’ Ravel’s L’enfant et les Sortilèges is a fantastical story where a naughty child is punished for his bad behaviour when the items in his room come to life to take their revenge. This short lyric fantasy has countless roles and many theatrical challenges – the armchairs, bench and couch dance together to escape the child; the Grandfather clock starts toppling around the room upset at being made to strike out of time; the fire jumps out of the grate; the shepherds torn from the wallpaper rise from the floor and dance a ballet with the Princess from the book the child destroyed.

Even the numbers from his maths book jump about the room, all in the wrong order.

With such fun characters to play, the fantasy world of L’enfant et les Sortilèges provides an interesting musical challenge for any singer, and a great experience for the audience.

www.mcc.co.ke

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book reviews

New Arrivals THE ROOSTER HOUSE – A UKRAINIAN FAMILY MEMOIRE by Victoria Belim

Library News

The Rooster House is part memoir, part historical detective story, but compelling and beautifully written, Victoria Belim also provides an insight into the complexity of Ukraine’s multifarious past.

With its key position between Russia and western Europe, Ukraine has a long history of occupation, independence and ethnic, linguistic and political divisions going back centuries.

In the Ukrainian city of Poltava stands a building known as the Rooster House, an elegant mansion with two voluptuous red roosters flanking the door. It doesn’t look horrifying. And yet, when Victoria was a girl growing up in the 1980s, her great-grandmother would take pains to avoid walking past it.

In 2014, while the Russian state was annexing Crimea, Victoria visited her grandmother in the hamlet that was a haven in her childhood. Just before the trip she came across her great-grandfather’s diary, one page scored deep with the single line: ‘Brother Nikodim, vanished in the 1930s fighting for a free Ukraine.’

She had never heard of this uncle and no one - especially her grandmother seemed willing to tell her about him.

Victoria became obsessed with recovering his story, and returned to Ukraine again and again in pursuit of it. After years of sifting through Ukraine’s post-Soviet bureaucracy, after travelling to tiny, ruined villages and speaking to the wizened survivors of that era, her tortuous search took her back to the place she had always known it would - to the Rooster House, and the dark truths contained in its basement.

Peopled by warm, larger-than-life characters who jostle alongside the ghostly absences of others, The Rooster House is both a riveting journey into the complex history of a wounded country and a vivid and often heartbreaking tribute to the resilience and strength of the Ukrainian people.

WINDMILL HILL by Lucy Atkins One night spent in a remote hunting lodge with a Hollywood director causes an international scandal that wrecks Astrid’s glittering stage career, and her marriage.

Her ex-husband, the charismatic Scottish actor Magnus Fellowes, goes on to find global fame, while Astrid retreats to a disintegrating windmill in Sussex.

Now 82, she lives there still, with her pack of miniature dachshunds and her long-suffering friend, Mrs Baker, who came to clean twenty years ago and never left. But the past is catching up with them. There has been an ‘awful incident’ at the windmill; the women are in shock. Then Astrid hears that Magnus, now on his deathbed, is writing a tell-all memoir. Outraged, she sets off for Scotland, determined to stop him.

Windmill Hill is the story of two very different women, both with painful pasts, and their eccentric friendship - deep, enduring, and loyal to the last.

Lucy Atkins has created a wonderful, eccentric cast of slightly unhinged characters, a plot as tangled as Astrid’s wandering mind, and a richly atmospheric backdrop in the ancient windmill on the South Downs, with its trapdoors and untrustworthy upper storeys, and its damp patches and ghosts.

Windmill Hill is playful, brilliantly observed, and with a plot that skips and surprises in the best possible ways. Gripping as well as beautifully written Atkins has delivered a story rich in charm, enormous fun and with an emotionally satisfying climax. www.mcc.co.ke

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Outgoing and incoming Chairmen of the Library Anne Sutcliffe and Charles Campbell-Clause. Anne will continue to serve on the Library Committee.

After several years of service as Chairman of the Library Committee, Anne Sutcliffe is stepping down to make way for Charles Campbell Clause to take up the position.

Anne has been a tremendous asset to the Library committee and hugely instrumental in the selection and procurement of the excellent, wide and varied selection of books the library boasts. Long may she remain on the Committee.

Plans to expand and upgrade the Library have been in discussion for many years and Charles will be looking to push these plans through and make the library more than just the book-borrowing depot that it has been, but grow it into a bright space for Members to be able to browse and read in comfort. There are well over 20,000 books in the Club’s possession.

In addition, the MCC Library owns a very fine collection of rare and valuable Africana books but currently has nowhere to exhibit them. The thought is to create a Reference area to display these books where Members will be able browse and enjoy this unique collection in comfort.

“I believe that a new, modern and spacious library will considerably enhance our Club and be a huge attraction to many Members.

More to come as plans develop…”

Charles Campbell-Clause Chairman Library Committee

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Heritage Presents…

MUTHAIGA NOW AND THEN

by Simon Roberts What attracts Members to a Club is, of course, an individual matter. If however, a degree of generalisation may be permitted, a Club tends to attract like-minded people who enjoy associating with friends and others with similar interests to themselves.

If that description speaks for MCC Members today, what might have attracted Members when the Club first opened its doors on the eve of 1914? Few records of early Membership remain and so it falls to memoirs to help us understand those motivations.

Club, gave these men little time to forge close associations over sundowners on the terrace. One must therefore look more closely to understand what led the Club to erect a monument to a group of men whose Membership can only have been very brief.

Lord Cranworth in his 1939 book Kenya Chronicles writes,

In their short biographies you will see close interconnections.

They were friends, but it is notable that these friendships were not formed by the Club, rather, the Club is a product of their friendship. The grand memorial may then be better understood as a monument to lost friends.

“Muthaiga owed its initiation to Berkeley Cole, who in an unusual outburst of respectability said that he was sick of being treated like a pig and that he yearned for a Club of a refined nature where, when you wanted a drink, you rang the bell and it was brought you on a spotless tray.”

Cole and Cranworth are both historically notable Members whose experiences have been well documented, but of other Members, less well known, little is recorded.

Across the car park from the Garden Terrace stands a grey stone memorial to eighteen Muthaiga Country Club Members who died in the First World War. It provides a rare document; a sample list of Members from the beginnings of our Club. But, the war having started in July 1914, only seven months after the opening of the

Nat Barry The Mission to Seafarers in Mombasa was originally called the Nat Barry Memorial Hall. The Barry family provided funds to build it in Nat’s memory and it was opened by his brother in 1921.

A plaque in the lobby commemorates the event. He was born in South Africa and educated at Sherbourne School in England. His father was the Chief Justice of the Cape and a member of the South African Supreme Court. He arrived in Kenya in 1908 and farmed ostriches in Naivasha. He was killed in 1917 in Tanzania.

While so much has changed in the last century, is there something in the fabric of our Club which remains as powerful and unifying for us in 2023 as it was for them in 1914? Nakupa hati nzuri.

Arthur BonhamCarter Arthur BonhamCarter was a judge in Mombasa. He came to Kenya in 1906 having spent the previous four years as a circuit magistrate in Transvaal. Prior to that he had served in the 1899-1902 war in South Africa and before that had been called to the bar in England in 1894. His father was an MP and Lord Mayor of London. He was educated at Winchester School and Trinity College Cambridge. He was killed on the first day of the battle of the Somme in 1916 in France. He is an indirect ancestor of actress Helena Bonham-Carter.

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So our Club grew out of the bonds of friendship - a group of likeminded people who enjoyed associating with comrades and others with similar interests to themselves. And so, despite the many differences of those early days, the foundation of friendship may be something that connects us with those early Members.

Harold Drake In 1906 Harold Drake established the Nakuru Railway Hotel in partnership with his friend Noel Gibbs (see below). It remains in business today as the Midland Hotel. He was born in England, the son of a surgeon and was educated at Marlborough College. He was killed in 1914 in Tanzania in an action involving the East African Mounted Rifles, a volunteer unit consisting of many MCC Members.

www.mcc.co.ke

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Heritage Presents…

Ludwig Eckstein Ludwig Eckstein was the son of Hermann Eckstein, a Randlord.

Randlords were the small group of uberwealthy capitalists who controlled the early gold and diamond mining industries in South Africa. There is a park in Johannesburg which still bears Hermann’s name. Whilst his father was German by birth, Ludwig was born in England. He was educated at Eton School and the Royal Agricultural College before arriving in Kenya in 1912. He was killed in 1916 in Tanzania.

Noel Gibbs Noel Gibbs arrived in Kenya in 1906 and, in partnership with his friend Harold Drake (see above), established the Nakuru Railway Hotel. It remains in business today as the Midland Hotel. In 1908 he began farming at Naivasha on land that was later incorporated into Gilbert Colvile’s vast Ndabibi estate. He was born in England and was educated at Eton and Radley schools. His father was a Justice of the Peace and High Sheriff of Somerset.

He was killed in 1916 in Tanzania.

Lord Arthur Hay After arriving in Kenya, some time after leaving the Irish Guards (into which he was commissioned in 1906) Lord Arthur Hay based himself in Muthaiga running a trading company called Hayward, Smith & Company (East African Agents). He had, in 1911 married Menda Ralli of the notable Greek-British trading family. He was born in Scotland, second son of the Marquis of Tweedale. He was educated at Eton school and the Royal Military College Sandhurst.

He was killed in 1914 in France.

Colin Isaacson Colin Isaacson was a retired military officer who arrived in Kenya in 1908 and took a lease on land in Londiani together with Hugh Sandbach (see below).

They called it Kedowa Estate. Isaacson was known for his attempts to grow rubber in the Mau Forest. He was born in Scotland and his father had been an officer in the same regiment in which Isaacson served; the Royal Scots. He was educated at Rugby School and the Royal Military College Sandhurst. He was killed in 1917, near Lindi in Tanzania.

Henry Lambert There are a set of bells in All Saints Cathedral which were presented in memory of Henry Lambert by his family in 1922. He was a professional military officer who served with Hugh Sandbach (see below) during the 18991902 war in South Africa. He subsequently served as ADC to three successive Viceroys of India from 1902-08. He arrived in Kenya in 1908 and farmed ostriches on the Athi plains. He also established a hardware business in Nairobi - Lamberts Ltd. He was born in England to a Sussex magistrate and was educated at Harrow School and Trinity College, Cambridge. He was killed in 1917 in Belgium.

The second part of Simon's article will be published in the next issue of the magazine.

Muthaiga Club 1925

*If anyone has any photographs of, or additional information on any of the men described above, we would be very grateful to receive it. www.mcc.co.ke

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bird quiz

Bird Quiz Another straight recognition exercise this quarter.

Some of these birds will not be easy to identify, BUT once again, all birds include a Compass Point and when you have correctly identified two or three of the birds, the connection will be obvious and it will help you to identify the others.

Answers on page 29 24 Muthaiga Country Club October – December 2023

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www.mcc.co.ke

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hatches & matches fo re

er of

Sebastian Cheli & Laura Andrews

Richard Smith & Della Barkas

Sebastian Giacomo Cheli, youngest son of Stefano and Liz Cheli of Loisaba, Kenya, married Laura Claire Andrews, eldest daughter of Nick and Caroline Andrews of West Marden, Sussex, England.

The wedding was held on 15th July, at West Marden, Sussex, fEngland. o re

Richard Smith, eldest son of Brian & Sharon Smith of Cape Town, South Africa, married Della Barkas, eldest daughter of Sim & Lulu Barkas of Laikipia, Kenya.

The wedding was held on 8th July 2023, on the island of Ios in Greece.

Kiko Janemann & Phoebe Belcher

Lottie Sala Fulbrook

Kiko Janemann, eldest son of Peter and Jacqueline Janemann of Amsterdam, Netherlands, married Phoebe Belcher, daughter of Simon and Amanda Belcher of Muthaiga, Kenya.

The wedding was held on 2nd December, 2022, on Loisaba Conservancy, Kenya.

Born on 11 August 2023 in Nairobi, Kenya.

To Laura (née Harber) and Henry Fulbrook of Naivasha, Kenya.

First grandchild to Jenifer Field of Naivasha and the late David Harber, and second grandchild to Guy and Becky Fulbrook of Abingdon, England.

er of

All newly-weds who send in their wedding photo for publication will be offered a romantic dinner for two with a bottle of House wine, either at Pinks or in the Club Dining Room, to be booked before publication of the next issue. Send your photos and details to secretariat@mcc.co.ke and please send high-resolution images.

www.mcc.co.ke

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Kenya Horticultural Society Centenary

The Earth Smiles with Flowers The Kenya Horticultural Society is commemorating its Centenary with a year of celebratory events. Throughout the decades the KHS has been strongly supported by MCC Members.

The first meeting held at the New Stanley Hotel in June 1923 was proposed by MCC Member Olive Collyer and attended by fellow Members Dr AJ and Lady Muriel Jex-Blake.

Over the last 100 years KHS has become Kenya’s leading organisation in the promotion of gardening, safe and environmentally friendly horticultural practices and the celebration of plants and green spaces.

Like the members today, the founders shared an interest in flowers, plants, trees and gardens. Today the range of interests are broader, reflecting the concerns and needs of the modern world.

Members are also passionate about biodiversity, the preservation of public parks and forests, permaculture and the environment.

districts all over Kenya, proudly and passionately promoting horticulture and adapting to the changing times and weather.

The tropical horticulturalist’s bible “Gardening in Eastern Africa” was originally compiled by MCC Member Dr AJ Jex-Blake and assisted

by Lady Muriel Jex-Blake, with contributions from KHS members from all over the country. First published in 1934, it has been republished five times – most recently the 2017 edition.

Other centenary events included a fabulous Plant & Flower Show held at the Sarit Centre, visited by more than 2000 people over three days; Garden Parties were held in the various district branches - all ten of which have undertaken to plant 100 trees in their areas - and a spectacular Dances for Plants event organised

by MCC Member Sally Shaw, to raise funds for horticultural education in schools and the rehabilitation of the pond area in City Park.

The Centenary Council Meeting was held on the same day in the same place 100 years after the launch meeting of the Kenya Horticultural Society in 1923. Many MCC Members were present – at both!

After its launch in 1923, the society grew rapidly both in size and success. Affiliate branches were launched in different districts of the country with 13 active districts operating at its peak in the 1950s.

In 1927 monthly garden meetings were started and held in different members’ gardens. Often a talk was given by a specialist a practice that continues today in the various districts.

In 1956 the Society was granted patronage by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, thus changing the name to The Royal Kenya Horticultural Society. This remained up until the time of Kenya’s independence when the name reverted to the original title.

The Club’s copies of Gardening in East Africa with the 1950s edition with Joy Adamson’s botanical illustrations.

Changes have occurred over the years, with the society having to close down during WWII and during the Emergency, and with districts closing and merging, but today there are ten active 26 Muthaiga Country Club October – December 2023

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Events still to come include a Christmas Market Flower & Plant Sale at Shamba Café. And for posterity, the KHS has recommended the Desert Rose Adenium obesum to the government, as the National Flower of Kenya.

The KHS welcomes new members, if anyone would like to join, please visit the KHS website for your district, or email info@kenyahs.com. www.mcc.co.ke

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obituaries

Bertil Klevby Bertil Klevby died in Stockholm, Sweden, on 4 August 2023 at the age of 80.

Bertil was born in Stockholm, Sweden and grew up in a quiet residential area with three younger brothers. At a young age, sports became an important part of his life, and he played football, ice hockey, tennis and skiing to a high level.

Golf came to be his favourite sport in his later years and he was a proud member of the Windsor Golf and Country Club and the Senior Golfers’ Society in Kenya.

After graduating with a Master’s degree in Economics at Stockholm University, Bertil began his career as an economist working for the Civil Administration of the Swedish Armed Forces, going on to work as a consultant for the World Bank and later, as the CFO of the Swedish Space Agency.

Bertil and his wife Inga spent many years together abroad, first in the US and Philippines, and later in Côte d’Ivoire and Kenya. Bertil and Inga lived in

Jock Anderson Jock was one of the original ‘49ers at the Duke of York School, Kenya. Here he developed his love of sport, especially rugby and hockey. He went on many hockey tours across Kenya and Europe. He also enjoyed water skiing and ski-ed for Kenya.

Jock was called up to join the Kenya Regiment in 1955 and the Regiment remained a big part in his life.

In 1960 he became a veterinary officer and was involved in the inoculation programme for the eradication of Rinderpest based at Marigat in the Baringo district of Kenya’s Rift Valley. He was detailed to proceed north and inoculate all the cattle in the infected area as soon as possible. This programme helped to eradicate Rinderpest in Kenya.

Jock married Liz Napier and they had two daughters, Sandy [Sharon] & Lorraine [Rainee] in 1968 and 1971, respectively.

Sharon married Stewart Roberts and they have a daughter, Skye who is now 19, and Rainee married Gerard Beaton an they have two sons, Charlie and Sam aged 18 and 16 respectively. www.mcc.co.ke

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February 1943 - August 2023 Kenya for over ten years when Inga was the Ambassador for Sweden to Kenya (1998-2002) and Deputy Executive Director at UN HABITAT (2005-2011.)

Bertil supported Inga throughout her professional career and took on consulting roles during her postings abroad.

After he and Inga retired, they left Kenya in 2011,but they made yearly visits to Kenya and the Club, the last one was in February and March this year.

Bertil enjoyed traveling, especially on safari, where he loved to drive his own car around the Masai Mara and also visiting and playing numerous golf courses in Kenya and other parts of the world.

Bertil was a devoted husband and loving father to his son Johan and daughter Anna and his six grandchildren.

His summers were spent at the family summer house in the Stockholm Archipelago, where Bertil enjoyed nothing more than cooking dishes with freshly caught fish, self-foraged chanterelles mushrooms and wild blueberries from the woods.

He was a Member of MCC for 24 years and will be sadly missed by his many friends and fellow golfers in Kenya.

July 1936 – February 2023 Jock was head hunted by Alan Root & Richard Leakey of Root & Leakey Safaris to take clients on safari. Jock then bought the company and changed its name to East African Wildlife Safaris, building a successful business around it. No client ever forgot a safari with Jock. He then devoted his life to wildlife.

Jock was renowned for finding suitable venues and putting up the camps for films.

He was even asked to go to Namibia to set up the camp for the film ‘A Far-Off Place’ based on the book by Sir Laurens van der Post. Nothing ever fazed him.

Jock was one of the founders of the social group called the Thika Marriage Bureau then White Cap Safaris. He organised many a happy trip with friends to various different places in Kenya.

In 1988 Jock married Sue and they had a son, Robert and a daughter, Ashley.

Robert married Lottie Rowe in 2021 and had a daughter Elsie in February 2023.

Ashley married Jeremy Herren in 2022 and they also have a daughter, Madeleine born in April 2023.

Jock’s cheeky sense of humour was a hallmark of his personality and will be sorely missed by all who knew him. His spirit will live on through his children and grandchildren, and the wild places he loved so much.

Jock was a Member of MCC for 38 years.

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obituaries

February 1931 – April 2023

Evelyn Spyratos

Evelyn Spyratos (née Riddell) was born at Ngong, Kenya, in 1931. She was better known to her friends and family as Diggy.

Diggy met her husband, Solon Spyratos, in Nairobi, and after marrying in 1957, they bought a coffee farm, Kifissia Estate, in Kiambu.

Her father, Jack Riddell, later farmed in Kedong and Kitale. As a result, Diggy was sent as a boarder to Loreto Convent Msongari, in Nairobi, at a very young age. She got her High School Certificate from Loreto, and at the age of 17, went to live in Spain. Her uncle, the artist William Riddell, had married in England and was living in a castle in Spain, where Diggy remained happily for four years until she returned to Kenya on her father’s death in the early 1950s.

They had two daughters, Korinna and Alexandra, who both survive her, together with her grandchildren Olivia and Sholto, and one step-daughter Depy, and her daughter Noelle.

Her sister Jean, married to Bert Steyn, lived in Kitale, then moved to South Africa where she lived for many years.

Evelyn was a Member of MCC for 51 years.

Evelyn lived for a brief spell in Greece when the coffee farm was sold, but returned to Kenya on Solon’s death in 1982.

Diggy lived in Malindi from then until her death on 11 April, 2023.

DEATHS

The Club regrets to announce the deaths of the following Members EVELYN SPYRATOS on 11 April 2023

JOHN GOODWIN on 27 August 2023

MARILYN DURRANT on 13 June 2023

BRIAN PLUMBE on 30 September 2023

BERTIL KLEVBY on 4 August 2023

DAVID WHITE on 11 October 2023

BRENDA GOODMAN on 15 August 2023 If anyone would like to publish an obituary for a Member who has died recently, please send a tribute and photograph of the deceased to the secretariat@mcc.co.ke

Sophia Karwitha Kinoti It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden death of MCC staff member Sophia Karwitha Kinoti and her 4-month-old baby Angel Ariana. The two were killed in an accident on the Mombasa Road on 7 September 2023.

Sophia was a highly respected and valued member of the Club’s Sports & Wellness Team where she has worked since 2013. She was dutiful and efficient and a well-loved colleague and friend to the entire MCC community.

May the souls of Sophia and Angel Ariana rest in peace.

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www.mcc.co.ke

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candidates being considered for membership CANDIDATES BEING CONSIDERED FOR MEMBERSHIP 1ST AUGUST TO 30TH SEPTEMBER 2023

SWEEPSTAKES AUGUST 2023 Prize

Member Name

Amount

Proposer

Candidate

Category

1st

John A. McHaffie

64,734/-

Andrew Wemyss

William Wemyss

Non Resident

2nd

Peter G. Mbogua

32,367/ -

Helen Abebe

Danielle Mutiso

Full Town

3rd

Helen Sarah Kampf

18,495/ -

Alexander Dietz

Martina Bolognesi

Full Town

4th

Freddy Mbari

18,495/-

Louise Roy

Scheherazade Feddal

Short Term

5th

Charles K. Nyamu

13,872/-

Timothy Hobbs

Beatrice Karanja-Shah

Full Country

6th

Samson Kuria Kamau

9,248/-

Omesh Kapila

Sunita Kapila

Full Town

7th

George N. Kariuki

9,248/-

Sammy George

Joseph Maina

Full Town

8th

David P. Hewett

9,248/-

– Alice Kiragu

Full Town

– Kayla Kagigite

Junior Family Town

9th

Ivy E. Kihara

9,248/-

– Ian Kagigite

Junior Family Town

– Trevor Kagigite

Under 7

SWEEPSTAKES SEPTEMBER 2023

Elizabeth Wachira

Craig Oyugi

Full (18-29) Resident

Prize

Member Name

Amount

Joseph Karago

Thule Lenneiye

Full Town

1st

Ian J. R. Robertson

65,395/-

Sandie Bhachu

Gajan Bhachu

Full (18-29) Resident

2nd

Vijay V. Gidoomal

32,698/-

3rd

Nicholas C. Rabb

18,684/-

4th

Peter J. K. Mwangi

18,684/-

5th

Helen Sarah Kampf

14,013/-

6th

John F. Beakbane

9,342/-

7th

Veronica Hammond

9,342/-

8th

Doreen E. Bahari

9,342/-

9th

Gideon S. Moi

9,342/-

CANDIDATES BEING CONSIDERED FOR MEMBERSHIP 2ND OCTOBER TO 30TH NOVEMBER 2023 Proposer

Candidate

Category

Jelioth Karuri

Cynthia Karuri-Kropac

Full Town

– Shasha Kropac

Junior Family Town

– Nikolai Kropac

Junior Family Town

Vishisht Talwar

Gurpreet Kaur

Full Town

Macharia Kamau

Fui Liew

Full Town

Samuel Owen

Georgia Owen

Full Town

Transistion from Short Term to Non Resident

Tobias Rasmussen Non

Resident Transistion from Short Term to Full Town

Jordyan Corcoran Full

Town Aldo Manos

Gabriele Borla

Short Term

Fergus Robley

Philip Stander

Short Term

– Wernich Stander

Junior Family Short Term

– Renieke Stander

Junior Family Short Term

Rajeev Pant

Short Term

– Nidhi Pant

Short Term

Mohit Kapoor

Short Term

– Ambika Kapoor

Short Term

Neil Wigan

Short Term

– Yael Banaji

Short Term

– Benjamin Wigan

Junior Family Short Term

– Ella Wigan

Junior Family Short Term

Stephan Schonemann

Short Term

Terence Davidson Steve Mainda Graham Shaw

Anne-Lise Klausen

Answers to Bird Quiz (Page 24)

Top Row: Northern Crombec, Northern Black Flycatcher Middle Row: Eastern Chanting Goshawk, Southern Black Flycatcher

Bottom Row: Western Marsh Harrier, Western Reef Heron

– Anne-Marie Schonemann Short Term Jay Mediratta

Narmeen Nanji

– Esther Schonemann

Junior Family Short Term

Harprit Uberoi

Full Town

– Praveer Uberoi

Junior Full Town

– Tara Uberoi

Junior Full Town

Fatima Thobani

Full Town

www.mcc.co.ke

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MCC reciprocates with 122 Clubs in 31 countries around the world. The Reciprocity Committee invests a great deal of time ensuring that these Clubs are worthy of our association and Members are encouraged to submit brief reports if they visit or stay at any one of them. These reports will be published for the benefit and interest of other Members who may be planning to travel overseas.

For more information and contact details of reciprocating Clubs please contact the Secretary’s office.

AUSTRALIA

City

IRELAND

TURKEY

Adelaide Club Adelaide Kildare Street and University Club Dublin Buyuk Kulup Cercle d’Orient Club Istanbul Athenaeum Club Melbourne The Stephen’s Green Hibernian Club Dublin UK Australian Club Melbourne Melbourne Commonwealth Club Canberra ITALY Army & Navy Club London Melbourne Club Melbourne Buck’s Club London Circolo Antico Tiro a Volo Rome Queensland Club reciprocates with 114 Brisbane MCC Clubs in 24 countries around the world. The Reciprocity Cardiff &Committee County Club invests a great Cardiff Royal Automobile Club of Australia Sydney JAPANare worthy of our association and Members Carltonare Club deal Club of time ensuringMelbourne that these Clubs encouraged to submit London Royal Automobile of Victoria Farmer’s Club London Tokyo American ClubThese reports will Tokyo or stay at any one of them. be published the benefit and interest London Tattersall’sbrief Club reports if they visit Brisbane Garrickfor Club Tasmanian Club Hobart Hurlingham Club London of other Members who may be planning to travel overseas.

LUXEMBOURG Union, University & Schools Lansdowne Club London Cercle Munster For more information contact details of reciprocating ClubsLuxembourg please contact the Secretary’s Club of Sydney Sydney and Leander Cluboffice.

Henley-on-Thames, Weld Club Perth Northern Counties Club Newcastle MALAYSIA IN DI A continued AU STRAL IA U K Oriental Club London AUSTRIA Lake Club Kuala Lumpur ArmyOxford & Cambridge Club Adelaide Club Adelaide Royal & Navy Club London London Secunderabad Club Secunderabad Athenaeum Melbourne St. Johanns Club Club Vienna Boodle’s London Phyllis Court Club Henley-on-Thames, Bangalore Club Bangalore Australian Club Melbourne Melbourne NETHERLANDS Buck’s London London Reform Club Canberra TheIRNieuwe BOLIVIACommonwealth Club & County ClubClub Cardiff London E L A N of D Littéraire Sociëteit De Witte The Hague Cardiff Royal Air Force Melbourne Club Melbourne Carlton Club London London Royal Automobile Club Royal Industrieele Groote Club Amsterdam Circulo deMelbourne La UnionSavage Club La Paz Kildare Street and University Club Dublin Melbourne City Royal of London Club League London London Over-Seas Naval Military and Airforce The Stephen’s Green Hibernian Club Dublin Farmer’s Club London NEW ZEALAND Savile Club London BELGIUMof South Australia Adelaide Hurlingham Club London JAPAN The Athenaeum Liverpool Royal Automobile Club of Australia Sydney Christchurch Club Christchurch Ipswich & Suffolk Club Ipswich International Club Chateau Sainte-Anne Brussels Tokyo American Club Tokyo The Boodle’s Royal Automobile Club of Victoria Melbourne The Canterbury Club Inc. Christchurch Lansdowne Club London London Brisbane The Caledonian Club Henley-on-Thames, London CANADATattersall’s Club LU X EBay M B Club OU RG Hawke’s Napier Leander Tasmanian Club Hobart NavalThe ClubCavalry & Guards Club London London The Northern Club Auckland Forest & Stream Union, Club University & Schools Club Montreal Sydney Cercle Munster Luxembourg The Clifton Bristol Northern CountiesClub Club Newcastle The Wellington Club Wellington United Service Club Brisbane Granite Club Toronto The East IndiaUnited Club Services Nottingham London Nottingham & Notts M A L AW I Weld Club Perth Mount Royal Club Montreal The Oriental London London The In & Out Naval & Military Club PAKISTAN Western Australian Club Rideau Club OttawaPerth Oxford Cambridge London Mulika Blantyre The& New Club Club Cheltenham Sind Club Karachi Phyllis Court Club Royal Canadian Military Institute Toronto Henley-on-Thames,Edinburgh AU STRI A The New Club N E T H E R L A N D S Saint James’s Club of Montreal Montreal The Reform Club Club London Norwich The Norfolk St. Johanns Club Vienna PORTUGAL Royal Air Force Club London The Hamilton Club Hamilton The Nieuwe of Littéraire Sociëteit De WitteThe The Royal Northern & University Club Aberdeen Automobile Club London BOLI VI A The National Club Toronto Grémio Lisbon RoyalThe HagueLiterário Club Royal Scots Club Edinburgh Royal Over-Seas League London The Ranchmen’s Club Calgary Circulo de La Union La Paz Sloane Club SavileThe Club London London NEW ZEALAND SINGAPORE Union Club of British Columbia Victoria The St. James Club Manchester The Athenaeum Liverpool UM UniversityBELGI Club Of Montreal Montreal Christchurch Christchurch The Western Club Tanglin Club Club Singapore The Caledonian Club London Glasgow International Club Chateau Sainte-Anne Brussels University Club of Toronto Toronto Travellers Club The Canterbury Club Inc. Christchurch The Cavalry & Guards London London VancouverCClub Vancouver SOUTH ANADA Turf Club The Clifton Club Bristol London Hawke’sAFRICA Bay Club Napier The East India Club Club London Ulster Reform Belfast The Country Club Johannesburg Johannesburg The Northern Club Auckland Cypress Club Medicine Hat CARIBBEAN The New Club Cheltenham Granite Club Toronto Durban Club Durban The Wellington Club Wellington The New Edinburgh USAClub West Indies Yacht ClubClub Jamaica The Hamilton Hamilton Inanda Club Johannesburg The Norfolk Club Norwich S I NG APOR E The National Club Toronto Kelvin The Army & Navy Club Washington DC Grove Club Cape Town The Royal Northern & University Club Aberdeen CHILE The Ranchmen’s Club Calgary Cosmos Club Washington DC Port Elizabeth St. George’s Club Port Elizabeth The Royal Tanglin Club Singapore Scots Club Edinburgh Terminal Vancouver Club De La UnionCity Club Santiago Harvard Club of New York City London New York The Pretoria Country Club Pretoria The Sloane Club Union Club of British Columbia Victoria S OU T H A F R ICA The Explorers Johannesburg The St James Club Club Manchester New York Montreal Rand Club FRANCE University Club of Montreal The Princeton The Travellers Club Club London New York University Club of Toronto Toronto Cape Town Club Cape Town SPAIN The Western Club Club Glasgow The Saturn Buffalo City, NY State Cercle de Vancouver l’Union Interalliee Paris Club Vancouver The Country Club Johannesburg Johannesburg The Turf London Chicago The Club Standard Club The Travellers Club Paris Circulo Ecuestre Barcelona Durban Club Durban C H I LE Ulster ReformClub Club Belfast Toledo Toledo, Ohio Real ClubClub de Polo de Barcelona Barcelona Inanda Johannesburg Vincent’s Club Oxford Boston Club De La Union Santiago GERMANY Union Club of Boston Real Gran Peña Madrid Kelvin Grove Club Cape Town Philadelphia U S AUnion League of Philadelphia F RANC E E.V Anglo-German Club Hamburg Port Elizabeth St. Georges Club Port Elizabeth University Club of Cincinnati Cincinnati SRI LANKA Union International Club Frankfurt The Army & Navy Club Washington DC Cercle de l’Union Interalliee Paris The Pretoria Country Club Pretoria The University Club Washington DC New York The Travellers Club Paris The Hill Club Nuwara Eliya Colony Club Rand Club Johannesburg TheClub Yale Club of New York Washington City HONG KONG Cosmos DC New York GERMAN Y The Princeton Club New York SWEDEN S PA I N The Hong Kong Club Hong Kong ZIMBABWE The Saturn Club Buffalo City, NY State Anglo-German Club E.V Hamburg Club Sällskapet Stockholm The Standard Club Circulo Ecuestre Barcelona Union International Club Frankfurt Chicago Bulawayo Bulawayo INDIA Union Club of Boston Boston Harare Real Gran Peña Madrid Harare Club HONG KONG SWITZERLAND Tollygunge Club Ltd Kolkata The University Club Washington DC S RBaur I LAN A The Hong Kong Club Hong Kong Club Umed Club Jodhpur auKLac Zürich of Washington The Yale Club of New York City New York Ootacamund Club Ooty,Tamil Nadu I NDI A The Hill Club Nuwara Eliya THAILAND Secunderabad Club Secunderabad ZIMBABWE Club Ltd Kolkata AILAND BangaloreTollygunge Club Bangalore TheT H British Club, Bangkok Bangkok Umed Club Jodhpur Ootacamund Club Udhagamandalam, Tamil Nadu

The British Club, Bangkok

Bangkok

Bulawayo Harare Club

Bulawayo Harare

MUTH A I G A COUNTRY CLUB P.O.Box 16526, Nairobi 00620, Kenya Email secretary@mcc.co.ke, accounts@mcc.co.ke, reservations@mcc.co.ke,exec.chef@mcc.co.ke, events@mcc.co.ke

www.mcc.co.ke

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