Courses have had full tee sheets routinely, even country clubs that typically do not deal with those other than in prime times on the weekends.
For the rebranded The Club at Castlewood, it’s been a good year. The club broke ground earlier this year on its new sports complex and remodel of its 1970 vintage clubhouse. The clubhouse has been a concern for members and Alameda County alike because it was built before the Americans with Disabilities Act passed and had limited accessibility for those with handicaps and no elevators.
The remodel and update of the clubhouse includes a fitness center and workout studio in place of the member’s grill and new indoor/outdoor dining area that takes advantage of previously unused patio area. The club had an amazing amount of square footage devoted to wining and dining. The remodel plans shrink that and utilize the space in other ways.
The sports complex will be anchored by the new swimming pool, plus grill, tennis pro shop and other space. It is convenient to the bocce and tennis courts. The grill will also serve members looking for something to eat at the turn.
The great news for members and the board alike is, contrary to expectations, memberships did not drop. During 2019 and 2020 uncertainty surrounded the club. The Bay Club had proposed purchasing the two golf courses and its facilities. Early in the year, members voted to commit to the complete remodel that carried with it a $200 monthly assessment for 20 years. After that vote, members later rejected the Bay Club offer and a committee worked diligently to design the remodel. The plans were released to an enthusiastic membership in the fall.
With the future path decided, the membership team could go full tilt to attract new people. The facilities also are family friendly—including daycare and full fitness—to appeal to a younger demographic. Castlewood always has boasted 36 holes of excellent golf, but it will now be much more than a golf club.
When the pandemic hit in 2020 membership did not drop and through 11 months of 2021, there are 72 new members and there’s a waiting list for the young executive membership. The recent membership report showed 53 members upgraded to regular membership. The new facilities expected to open mid-year 2022. Ground was broken last spring.
