Second attempt Day 11

On the 7th of July 1966, just over three weeks before England beat Germany in the football world cup final at Wembley, a mere 15 miles down the road a young 28 year old Spaniard, Manolo Santana, was lifting his first and only Wimbledon men's single's tennis title.

He hated grass, or at least playing tennis on it. He was famously quoted as saying 'grass is just for cows'. This, together with his working class childhood - as a small child his Father had been imprisoned by Franco for his political views too - made his victory even more remarkable. He would win a total of four majors during his career, and in doing so moved tennis out of the exclusive reserve of country clubs in Spain, and put it firmly on to the streets.  He retired to the outskirts of Marbella and set up a tennis ranch. 

And a beautiful one too. Six tennis courts of varying surfaces - no grass of course - a large gym, restaurants, bars and chilling out areas, and if we were in any doubt about joining, the tiebreaker, a glorious swimming pool for cooling off after a match. We were sold the minute we arrived to view the facilities last November. 

Rach and I signed up for a year's membership and booked a lesson on our first visit so our abilities could be assessed. Manolo himself came down to watch us for a while, looking frail but still content to oversee all the novices playing on his courts. When we returned to Marbella a few weeks later, just after Christmas 2021, we learned the sad news that he had died. 

We now play as much tennis as we like. In theory we are permitted one hour of singles and an hour of doubles per day, but as we visit during work hours there are always free courts to stay on longer if we have the energy to do so. Those who know me well will know I like value for money. By pre-paying for my year's tennis, I am assured to be there most days.   

I'm not yet in a position to proffer advice to anybody looking to quit drinking, but in the early days I have one observation. Days are long here, especially in the summer. Getting out of the house and engaging in a routine of activities is crucial. My local cycling, cycle touring and tennis equate to large amounts of time well spent. Marbella is also the world centre of sea paddleboarding, with countless schools to choose from. We hope to add that to the list soon - once the Med warms up and calms down a tad. Regular Spanish language lessons also keep our brains busy and active. 

Too many ex-pats fall easily into a drinking culture in this part of the world, I suppose looking back I did too. It's so easy to do. You have all the beautiful trappings around you, but the way you spend your time will ultimately define you. I'm not trying to lecture anybody on how to lead their lives, I can only say I've enjoyed this trip to Spain more than any other. For a start I can remember everything and have done so much more with my time. 

Manolo was instrumental in bringing tennis to the masses in Spain. He popularised the sport for millions. Nadal owes him a great deal I'm sure. His tennis ranch reflects this. Whilst beautifully maintained, it feels down to earth, without the snobbery. His own family greet you on arrival. After all he was the working class lad who was not supposed to make it in a rich man's sport, but he opened the door if you like, and this one from deepest Stockport walked right in. 

I'm starting to feel at home at Manolo Santana Racquets Club Marbella. I'm spending more time there than I used to in the bars and restaurants of Marbella. 

Who'd have thought that! 

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