BUILDING ON EXISTING EXCELLENCE

By Tamra Christiansen, Director of Fitness and Wellness :: Photography by Kelsey Grudle

I started working at beautiful Cordillera Ranch in October of 2020, landing my dream job during the most unlikely time to gain such luck and blessings. Since my arrival, I have been warmly welcomed by the Club’s wonderful members. Cordillera Ranch is such an amazing place to live and play. What else could I add?

I decided to work with this perfection and build programming into what already works with the clientele.

Many members want a great workout, so we offer classes that are designed to challenge each person in all facets of physical activity: strength building, stretching, cardio and sports-specific training.

For the Golf program, I was recently TPI certified in an effort to complement my functional style of training. I plan to further my certification and make our members stronger, less injury prone and mentally ready for every match and tournament that comes their way. Katie Dillard at the Golf Club teamed with me to have a TPI Assessment Clinic. This helped members with their Swing Connection, and many that I have worked with have reaped the benefits of what they have learned already. They look better, play better and best of all — FEEL BETTER after 18 holes.

Diane Pfeiffer appreciates her needs being met for strength, flexibility and golf goals. Diane stated, “Tamra is excellent at deciding your fitness level and challenging you to be the best you can be according to wherever you are in your fitness journey.” Phil Pfeiffer feels like he moves better, plays stronger and has gained flexibility. Susie Moseley says that her fitness journey has improved by starting on a program that had her fitness capa-

bilities and goals in mind. She appreciates the variety and the encouragement she receives. I thank the Golf Club for teaming with me to make some great connections and improve our athletes. There is so much more we will do in the future!

In February of 2021, I started the Tumble Fit program for the youth athletes at the Club. This is a monthly series of tumbling classes infused with fitness components, such as obstacle courses, physically challenging games and fun! We cater to kids 4-6 years old for our Mini Tumble Fit classes and 7-10 years old for our Youth Tumble Fit classes. Tumbling helps to work gross motor skills and coordination, teamwork, strength, flexibility and skills that help in future sports.

I also initiated the OutFITters Workout to the Club. This outdoor workout has brought in a consistent group of dedicated athletes every Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 7:00am. It has given the members variety, challenge and camaraderie. This class meets members where they are at in their fitness journey.

My goal for The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch was to connect all programs with fitness. I have made it a point for every member to have programs that work for what they are strengthening and for what they are healing. Having strength and flexibility helps every sport in specific ways, prevents injury and helps us to do what we love for a lifetime!

I believe we will have new, effective and innovative classes and programs that fit all ages and fitness levels for years to come. Cordillera Ranch is a place of limitless possibilities.

SHAKE IT UP, BABY!

Protein Shakes For Pre- and Post-Workout Nutrition

Executive Chef Isaac Cantu and the Club’s wellness team have collaborated to bring nutritious protein shakes in three delicious flavors:

Chocolate Dynamite The Sunny Dre Very Berry

Made with select fruit and choice protein powder, either whey or plant-based, members have three tasty options to fuel their workout and their day. Chocolate Dynamite includes peanut butter, milk and a banana with chocolate protein powder. The Sunny Dre combines vanilla protein, orange and pineapple juices and fresh mango. And the Very Berry is loaded with raspberries, strawberries and blueberries, and blended with milk and vanilla protein powder.

So, when to shake?

Pre-workout protein shakes help to fuel your muscles during exercise. Drinking a shake afterwards when your body is in recovery helps to rebuild muscles stressed from a strenuous workout. Determine which time works best for you and your specific fitness routine. Either way you drink it, our protein shakes are concentrated nutrition from natural sources for quick absorption and perfect for replenishing your body.

Protein shakes are made to order in the Men’s Grill and can be served to you in the Fitness Center before or after your workout, 8:00am to 6:00pm. Simply order via your Cordillera Ranch app and start reaping the benefits!

Tamra Christiansen is the Fitness and Wellness Director at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. She can be reached at tchristiansen@ cordilleraranch.com or 830.336.9184.

Women & Guns Women & Guns on the Ranch on the Ranch

By Shane Reynolds, Outdoor Recreation Director & Outfitter :: Photography by Jason Risner

A definite trend we’ve seen in the past eighteen months is the number of ladies that have an interest in learning to shoot and practice shooting at the Gun Club at Cordillera Ranch. It’s not only Texans we are seeing, but also a large number of out-of-town folks who have recently moved to Cordillera Ranch from elsewhere. The primary areas of interest are handguns and shotguns. This fall we are bringing back a series of workshops designed specifically for women and young ladies. Simply based on the time I have spent with our members and their guests at the Gun Club over the past few years, it’s my opinion that most women are interested in firearms and shooting for both self-protection and recreation.

There are few benefits to offering shooting workshops for ladies, only. It offers a judgment-free zone for women to come

together, learn from each other, encourage each other and share common interests. It creates community and a sense of sisterhood with other ladies who enjoying shooting.

These workshops are designed to take beginners to whatever skill level they wish to achieve and provide experienced shooters with more opportunities. The objective is to improve skill levels for self-defense and/or recreational shooting. Others are also interested in learning how to choose the right guns, gear and accessories for long-term participation in shooting sports.

It is important for ladies to get together in a recreational atmosphere and do some shooting just for the fun of it! It is one of the many reasons why people own guns. Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for you; for many it may ease the fear when going to the range. Our workshops provide an opportunity to meet other like-minded women who love to shoot!

We hear a lot in the media about how Americans are supposedly rejecting firearms and desire more gun control. That doesn’t appear to be the truth everywhere, especially in Texas! The members and guests we encounter at the Gun Club continue to support the Second Amendment and citizen gun ownership.

This isn’t to say that the Second Amendment or our right to self-defense isn’t under constant attack. It is, and we need to remain constantly vigilant and active in fighting anti-gun forces. But, the growing participation of women and kids in the shooting sports is certainly a sign of good things to come.

The following information comes from Michelle Viscusi, a competitive shooter from Arizona: “To any shooter, selecting the right firearm is the beginning of a successful shooting journey. I’ve had experience at the range where new shooters are ‘told’ what firearm is right for them. Giving a new shooter a .44magnum or a .500 S&W on their first visit to the range always proves for an unpleasant first time. Do your research, look for a certified instructor who listens to your needs and wants to teach you the fundamentals of shooting. Don’t be intimidated to ask questions. If your instructor makes you feel uncomfortable with answering your questions, find a new instructor. Most important of all is to enjoy your experience and have fun. Here are some things new shooters should consider:

1. CHOOSING THE RIGHT FIREARM. Selecting a quality firearm from a reputable manufacture is going to contribute to your shooting experience. Having a reliable firearm at the range or for personal protection is very important. 2. SELECT THE RIGHT CALIBER. Choosing the right caliber should be researched. Simple questions like: What do you want to use the firearm for? Cost of ammo? Personal protection ammo? Availability? 3. CONSIDER THE COST. How much do you want to pay for your firearm? 4. THINK ABOUT SAFETY. Where is the firearm stored? Will you purchase a safe? 5. CHOOSING A CARRY GUN. Do you want to carry a fullsize firearm? If you want to carry concealed, are you going to enjoy shooting a subcompact firearm at the range? And will the firearm be able to carry you into competition if you’d like to?”

For any questions on guns, workshops or to make a reservation at the Gun Club at Cordillera Ranch, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Shane Reynolds is the Outdoor Recreation Director & Outfitter at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at outfitter@cordilleraranch.com or 210.616.6051.

STAYING POWER

Our Lodges, catering, customer service and concierge mindset provide the best available services without leaving the Ranch.

The Elmax

By Brianna Botine, Communications Director and Lodging Concierge, and Amanda Carlisle, Private Events Director Photography courtesy of Cordillera Ranch

It’s no secret that Cordillera Ranch is a special place to live, and celebrations centered on the natural beauty and unique features of the property become exceptional events with one-of-a-kind experiences. Weddings might be the first to come to mind, but the possibilities are endless. With The Lodges providing superior comfort and convenience, an accomplished catering team and Cordillera’s captivating setting, the Ranch provides a perfect setting for corporate team building and special gatherings.

Our culinary team uses only the finest ingredients whether your retreat includes a casual meal or more elevated cuisine, and the catering team is adept at understanding your requirements and building enjoyable meals throughout the day. You can choose to have breakfast, lunch and dinner catered directly to your group at The Lodges, enjoy dinner in the Clubhouse main dining room or host a gathering at other intimate venues on the Ranch such as poolside or at the Equestrian Center. If you choose to entertain in your home on the Ranch, the Clubs’ staff can cater a party to fit any theme you can dream of. Or simply order a complete meal to-go when family and friends are visiting.

CORPORATE OUTINGS

Cordillera Ranch is an excellent place to host company meetings and team-building activities as the unique environment allows companies to conduct business while enjoying all of the amenities on the Ranch. Begin your retreat by hosting your guests at The Lodges, just a short golf cart ride away from the Clubs. The Georg Unit, named after the Georg Homestead of 1872, an original pioneer home left respectfully undisturbed in Cordillera Ranch, is an ideal setting for hosting larger groups of guests. With a spacious layout featuring four Deluxe Rooms and a common area with a full kitchen and living room, your team can attack their agenda around the dining table and hook up to the smart TV that is convenient for business presentations.

Adjacent to The Georg is The Elmax, with four Deluxe Suites and six Deluxe Rooms offering a perfect location for a small business retreat. All rooms in both units are designed for luxury and convenience, and each room includes a personal golf cart to transport between The Lodges and the Clubs. After wrapping up your meetings for the day, enjoy time out on our Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, blow off steam at the Gun Club or relax on a trail ride through the Hill Country. Add in food and beverage options, whether casual or up-scale, and customized merchandise, and you have a world-class meeting and sporting venue to entertain and motivate your employees.

A recent member’s corporate outing provided their guests with overnight accommodations at The Lodges so they could be on property or go into Boerne with the use of the Clubs’ Mercedes Vans. They had daily meetings with catered meals in The Lodges, team building activities in the afternoon, evening cocktails fireside and dinner in the main dining room.

FAMILY FUN

With private rooms, a full kitchen, an open concept living space and a beautiful private patio overlooking hole #3, The Georg is also ideal for family gatherings. Include The Elmax for an overflow of extended family. There’s room for everyone! The catering team can help you design a perfect holiday menu as well as casual meals, snacks and special happy hours, all to be enjoyed at The Georg. We can even arrange a visit with Santa himself.

ANYTHING CELEBRATORY

For bachelorette parties, baby showers, birthday parties, anniversaries and simply any special occasion you are celebrating, our Pastry team will impress your guests with custom cakes, cookies and other confectioneries. In addition to enjoying delicious catered meals, you can even host themed events such as your own private wine and food pairing at The Lodges.

HOME PARTIES Whatever the occasion, entertaining in your home can be a beautiful and stress-free experience. The Clubs’ staff can cater to any size event at a member’s home within the Ranch, providing staffing and equipment for food and beverage, set-up, service and clean-up, and can assist in outsourcing extra rentals, tents, tables, floral, etc. Planning begins with a one-on-one meeting where Chef Isaac advises on creating the perfect menu for your event, coordinators take care of the other details, and before you know it, you have enjoyed your own lovely party and your home looks as perfect and clean at the end of the evening as it did when the Clubs’ staff arrived.

CATERING TO-GO

With the holidays approaching, or simply any time of year when friends and family gather, the convenience of a delicious, prepared meal from the Clubs’ culinary team is a welcome treat.

It’s as easy as selecting your meal and picking it up, hot and ready to serve. Packaged in disposable containers, the meals can easily go straight to your table, or you can choose to transfer to your own holiday platters.

If you want to delight your guests with luxury amenities, wonderful food, exemplary service and gorgeous settings, The Lodges and The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch are the place to be. Whether your gathering is a grand affair or an intimate dinner party, an office luncheon or other private event, Cordillera Ranch, or your own beautiful home, is the perfect venue.

Contact Brianna Botine, Communications Director and Lodging Concierge, or Amanda Carlisle, Private Events Director, to begin planning your next event or retreat at The Ranch.

Brianna Botine is the Communications Director and Lodging Concierge at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. She can be reached at bbotine@cordilleraranch.com or 830.336.9177.

Amanda Carlisle is the Private Events Director at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. She can be reached at acarlisle@cordilleraranch.com or 830.336.9176.

By Graham House

For many of us, the meaning of Thanksgiving includes feasting, four-day weekends, football games, floats and family reunions. The “first Thanksgiving,” however, was neither a feast nor a holiday, but a simple gathering. Following the Mayflower’s arrival at Plymouth Rock on December 11, 1620, the Pilgrims suffered the loss of 46 of their original 102 colonists. With the help of 91 Indians, the remaining Pilgrims survived the bitter winter and yielded a bountiful harvest in 1621. In celebration, a traditional English harvest festival, lasting three days, brought the Pilgrims and natives to unite in a “thanksgiving” observance.

Today we celebrate the family time together with a traditional “Thanksgiving” meal where families integrate their own customs while preserving that which they hold most precious. Whether to gather in unity, teach the young in retold stories or prepare our hearts for gratitude, the meal has become the center point to draw us together.

Family time is precious so don’t waste your time cooking in the kitchen on Thanksgiving. You can pre-order Thanksgiving dinners to-go through The Club, choosing between a traditional Oven-Roasted Turkey Dinner, Brown Sugar Fall-Spiced Glazed Ham Dinner or the Herb-Roasted Prime Rib Dinner. The Clubs’ Bake Shop will make beautiful Cherry Spiced Apple and traditional Pumpkin pies to accompany your meal.

Thanksgiving Dinners To-Go sell out fast. Place your order with the Club Receptionist at 830.336.9000 by Sunday, November 21, and your complete meal will be ready for pick-up on Thanksgiving Day, November 25, 9:30am to Noon, with pick-up times scheduled every 15 minutes.

Graham House is the Clubhouse and Lodging Manager. He can be reached at ghouse@cordilleraranch.com or 830.336.9164.