The Parnell Lawn Tennis Club (PLTC) is thrilled to announce the election of Dr. Ru Douglas as the club's new Patron. This prestigious appointment recognises Dr. Douglas's extensive contributions to both the medical field and the tennis community.
 

Dr. Ru Douglas is a distinguished surgeon with a stellar career in the field of Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT). He holds a degree of Mb ChB from Otago University and is a fellow of three renowned institutions specialising in ENT:
 

• Royal College of Surgeons of Canada – University of British Columbia
• Paediatric ENT University of Pittsburgh
• Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)
   

Throughout his career, Dr. Douglas has held significant positions including as an ENT Specialist at Auckland Hospital and Starship Hospital. He also served as the President of the Ear, Nose, and Throat Society of Auckland and the President of Auckland Medical Society. His remarkable contributions to the medical field were acknowledged with the Maori Health Medal Award from the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.
 

Dr. Douglas's association with PLTC began in 1984 when he triumphed in the NZ Ear, Nose & Throat Society Tennis Tournament in Rarotonga, organised by the late Peter Fletcher. His journey with PLTC continued as he joined the club in the same year. He quickly became an integral part of the community when Jon Olsen, then President of PLTC, invited him to join the PLTC Committee. Dr. Douglas was elected onto the committee and subsequently, from 1991 to 1995, served as the President of Parnell Lawn Tennis Club.
 

In recognition of his unwavering commitment to PLTC, Dr. Ru Douglas was honoured with Life Membership in 1997, signifying his significant contributions to the club. He has continued to support the club, including the financing of the pavilion in front of Court 5.

Dr. Douglas's accomplishments on the tennis court are equally commendable. During his tenure at PLTC, he earned several titles, including B grade singles champion, doubles champion, and L’Ermitage doubles champion.
 

Ru Douglas's leadership, passion for tennis, and his experience as a former President of PLTC and other organisations, combined with his unwavering support for PLTC in the wider community, all played pivotal roles in his appointment as Patron. His dedication to the club's traditions and culture, demonstrated through his long-term commitment to PLTC, make him the ideal choice for this prestigious role within the Club.
 

Parnell Lawn Tennis Club is excited to welcome Dr. Ru Douglas as the new Patron, and we look forward to his continued guidance and support as we strive to elevate the club to new heights.