Kids take over Alabang Country Club

A carnival atmosphere enveloped the Alabang Country Club for four straight days recently as one of Metro Manila’s most exclusive sports and recreation clubs celebrated its 20th anniversary.

The club that counts former President Fidel Ramos, Senator Rene Cayetano, matinee idol Aga Muhlach and balladeer Martin Nievera as among its members was transformed into one big party place, giving parents and their kids all the reason to hang around from the sunup to sundown.

It was, in the words of a toddler who was kept busy by fun rides, kite-flying, football and other sports competitions and shopping sprees, like Christmas.

And why not?

At the sprawling Alabang polo field, the horses and their stick-wielding mounts had to step aside for the fun games like kite-flying, football and slow-pitch softball in the day. The swimmers also had their big splash in the newly-renovated Alabang pool and the bowlers at the sleek alleys.

Over at the golf course, members and dependents swung to their hearts’ content as they basked under the bright sunshine with the gusts of the cool December air providing relief.

Just as the final putts were made in the lengthening shadows, the club lit up to signal the start of a wonderful evening so far different from the usual peace and quiet the well-guarded village is used to.

Smoke billowed from the barbecue grills, and there was Divisoria-like haggling at the bazaars and merriment at the ferris wheel with its twinkling lights and, yes, the bands soon started playing.

A rock and rave party then ensued for the dependents and their friends — with Wolfgang taking center stage. Onda Latino and Aseano bands also sent those with itchy feet to the dance floor. Ang Fourgettables also took the stage.

Francis Jimenez, president of ACCI, said the big bash was their way of paying tribute to the families whose relationships have been partly nurtured by the many facilities of the club.

Father and sons play golf, mothers watch over their kids riding their horses, playing ball or taking a dip, families dining together at the restaurant. Alabang, indeed, is home not to far away from home.

"The club has provided so many families with the warmth and comfort of home and this we believe will be the reason why Alabang will stand the test of time," said Jimenez. "And it is for this reason that every board that sits in will have to provide the membership with well-maintained, well-updated facilities for them to enjoy."