Picture the scene. You stand before the majestic Madras Gymkhana Club a sprawling testament to history and tradition. This isn’t just a club. It’s a living legacy. Founded in 1884 the Madras Gymkhana Club quickly became a hub for the city’s elite. Initially membership was exclusive. Only garrison members British executives and a select few upper-caste Indians could join.
Imagine the early days. A simple tent served as the first clubhouse. Polo and pigsticking were the main attractions. The Raja of Venkatagiri generously donated a grandstand a gesture reflecting the club’s growing prestige. Soon other activities flourished. Trap shooting card games rugby tennis and golf all found a home within the club’s walls. South Indian Rajas contributed generously. They donated buildings billiard tables and even polo ponies further enhancing the club’s appeal.
The Madras Gymkhana Club’s history is deeply intertwined with India’s own story. At the beginning of World War I an ordinance expelled its German members. It was later discovered that most had already left the country. In 1971 a significant change occurred. Women were finally allowed to join as Independent Lady Members.
The club continued to evolve. A bowling green and a ballroom were added. Dance nights ended with lavish suppers. These events were meticulously documented through photographs a visual record of the club’s vibrant social life. A swimming pool was built where the American Olympic gold medalist Sammy Lee even gave a diving exhibition. The club’s facilities were constantly upgraded. A new ice-making plant an ice cream machine and a freezer modernized the kitchen. Even a miniature golf course was added. The bar itself underwent a stylish renovation.
Today the Madras Gymkhana Club boasts 15 rooms. Three are deluxe six are regular and another six are suites. Members of domestic and international clubs are welcome to stay here. All rooms are air-conditioned offering modern comfort within this historic setting. The club’s sports facilities are impressive. Four lighted tennis courts host tournaments including several International Tennis Federation events and the women’s national championships. Vijay Amritraj himself played here adding to the club’s legendary status. A gym a swimming pool billiards facilities table tennis and a card room cater to various interests. Beyond sports there’s a sports shop a salon a beauty parlor an ice cream parlor and libraries stocking books and DVDs.
The club’s 18-hole golf course a highlight is one of Asia’s oldest. Originally located on the Island Grounds it moved to Guindy around 1887. The course expanded from nine to fourteen sixteen and finally eighteen holes. It transitioned from brown to green fairways in the 1980s. The Guindy course was known for its challenging roughs and wind conditions. Ross Thompson served as the first golf captain. A remarkable fact The first inter-club competition between the Madras Gymkhana Club and the Bangalore Golf Club took place in 1878. This makes it the world’s oldest continuing competition between two golf clubs.
The Madras Gymkhana Club. More than just a club. It is a microcosm of Chennai’s history a place where sports social gatherings and cultural events have intertwined for over a century. A place where traditions are preserved and memories are made. A place that continues to thrive and evolve.