Whistler/Blackcomb in Canada's British Columbia is best known for its stellar—and year-round—skiing,
but savvy tennis players have also discovered that this award-winning resort also has an exceptional tennis venue in the Whistler Racquet Club. Former Top 50 player Marjorie Blackwood, a three-time Canadian champion, directs the programs with the help of her co-director and National Masters Doubles Champion Peter Schelling. During her career, Blackwood scored wins over Virginia Wade, Pam Shriver and Helena Sukova, among others. Between them this husband and wife team run a stellar operation, which deserves to be better known beyond the Northwest, not only for the quality and diversity of their programs but also for the exceptionally economical prices, especially for anyone whose currency has held up better than the Canadian dollar.
The club has 10 hard courts (three of them covered), grouped around a clubhouse with a fireside bar/lounge, pro shop, and exercise room. Many summer weekends are given over to special programs, including special camps with former players from the ATP Tour. From late June to mid August, there are also 3-hour-a-day midweek camps for juniors. Meanwhile, even if you miss one of the camps, you can look forward to socials, leagues, and game matching while having full access to all the summer mountain recreation Whistler/Blackcomb offers. Lodging rates for campers remarkably reasonable, making this at once a superb tennis getaway and uncommon bargain.
Pro Shop: 604-932-1991
If Whistler appeals to you, also check out:
The club has special lodging arrangements with the Summit Lodge (888-913-8811 or 604-932-2778), which has studios, and the Coast Whistler Hotel (800-663-5644 or 604-932-2522), which has hotel rooms, for anyone registered in its tennis camps (ask for the Whistler Racquet Club camp rate).
Seasons. Summer into early fall.
General Tourist Information. Visit the Whistler Resort Association website or contact them at 4010 Whistler Way, Whistler, BC Canada V0N 1B4. Phone: 800-944-7853 or 604-664-5625 or Fax: 604-938-5758. Or for general information about travel in British Columbia, log on to the Tourism British Columbia website or phone them toll-free at 800 HELLO BC.