Editor:
Delta's only squash club is at risk of being lost forever, which would be a terrible shame.
Not only does the Bayside Club have Delta's only squash courts, but it also boasts a weight and cardio gym overlooking Boundary Bay, a kayak and paddleboard base, and hosts many other community functions and clubs looking for space.
For those of you who have never been there, the Bayside Squash Club (6788 Corbould Rd.) is on the southeast corner of the Tsawwassen peninsula, bordered by Boundary Bay on one side and Point Roberts on the other.
Built in the 1950s, it is one of the original structures in Boundary Bay. Many people might remember picking up some the Lower Mainland's best fish 'n' chips from the take-out window that was on the Point Roberts side of the building or enjoying more than one evening in the dance hall.
Early in the 1980s squash courts were added and the Bayside Squash Club was born. Some of B.C.'s best players have come from the Bayside Juniors program. Every third person I talk to seems to have some old connection to this club.
A few years ago the club was sold, and the new owners now want to get it rezoned into two residential lots. With a growing population, this is the wrong choice for Delta. Delta needs to protect its fitness and recreational facilities and this location and facility is truly unique.
One more waterfront home will not have nearly the value to the residents of Delta that this club provides.
We need your help in letting Delta's mayor and council know what this building means to you, because the more voices in support of saving the club, the more likely they are to act. Please write a letter, call a councillor or sign the petition to save the club from being rezoned and demolished.
If you would like a copy of the petition to take to your office or sports club, or if you would just like a tour of the club, please email me at [email protected]. Better yet, come by on a Friday evening for our drop-in squash. All you need to bring is non-marking shoes. We can lend you a racquet and someone will be happy to teach you some basics and play a few games with you.
There is a pool table, foosball, darts, waterfront patio and a full kitchen as well, so bring your family along and make a night of it.
The rezoning application will go before council in just a few weeks, so please act now to let council know that you support saving this wonderful facility.
With New Year's coming, why not make a resolution to come out every Friday night for an amazing workout followed by an evening with friends? I joined this club three years ago and found a new skill and many new friends. I hope you will come out and join us too.
Ben Lazarus
