Caddies Days: Appreciation, Put into Play

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

If you want people to feel valued, let them experience what they help create. This shift, from serving to being served, communicates appreciation in a way words alone cannot. Caddies Day is an annual tradition that does just that.

This event is designed to honor the caddies who are fundamental to the golf experience and culture at Sunningdale. On this day, the script is intentionally flipped: the individuals who typically spend their time serving members are invited to step into the member experience themselves. On this day, caddies are not anticipating needs or setting the pace; instead, they share the course and clubhouse as equals, reinforcing that they are an integral part of the Sunningdale family - not just the service that supports it.

First, members cast their votes for Best Dressed Caddie, aka “The Richie Vote,” named in honor of a beloved longtime caddie remembered for his spirit and style. The Head Golf Professional and Golf Chairs then recognize the caddies and starter for their dedication and essential role at the Club. Relieved of anticipating needs or setting the pace, caddies are invited to simply enjoy the day sharing the course and clubhouse alongside members. After 10 holes, members and caddies gather at the clubhouse for cocktails and dinner, where awards are presented exclusively to the caddies, celebrating both personality and play.

Operationally, Caddies Day strengthens morale, pride, and retention while reinforcing a culture where appreciation is lived, not stated - positively impacting engagement well beyond the event itself.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

Caddies Day is implemented through close collaboration between club leadership and golf operations, with separate Men’s and Women’s Caddies Days to ensure inclusivity and broad participation. Each follows a consistent structure - recognition, golf, shared hospitality, and awards - making the initiative sustainable, repeatable, and easy to integrate into the annual calendar.

What distinguishes the event is the role members play. Members are not observers; they are active participants who take genuine pride in treating the caddies for the day. From casting votes in The Richie Vote, to playing alongside caddies, sharing meals, and applauding awards, members are fully engaged in the act of recognition.

Member response has been overwhelmingly positive. Many describe this as one of our most meaningful traditions, noting that it deepens relationships and reflects Sunningdale’s values. For caddies, being welcomed, served, and celebrated as part of the Sunningdale family fosters lasting pride, loyalty, and connection. The result is a tradition that transforms appreciation into shared culture, and recognition into belonging.

Caddies Day honors the people who make the Club work by giving them what recognition rarely does: the chance to feel what the Club means. The event reimagines appreciation by allowing caddies to experience the Club as members do - through community, participation, inclusion, and enjoyment.