Wow….what a week….full of “fun and games” and a fair amount of pretty impressive play by a number of competitors. Overheard being said by one of our overseas visitors “the standard of play certainly has shot up”….so well done to all our local players, you should be super proud of yourselves.

We completed the week with smiles on our faces, ready to face the rest of the season with determination. There are some, who unfortunately were pipped at the post, but certainly deserve a well earned mention for outstanding play: Roly and Sheena Hutchings, Carole Jennings and Jill Newton, well done to each and every one of you.

Somerset West Croquet Club – hats off to you and your members for all your hard work, not only on the lawns, but the refreshments and organisation behind the scenes.

Tony Whateley and Esther Jones for being fantastic assistant managers – after this event I am sure you two are going to be in high demand – thank you so much and well done.

So now we look forward to next year, which promises (with a possible “Viking” influx) to be an even better championship.

Once again, well done to all.

See results here.

Judith Hanekom Tournament Manager

Standing: Roly Hutchings, Caroline Burr, Richard Prosser, Gannick Ogiela, Paul McCreadie, Dick Selby, Judith Hanekom, Lionel Tibble. Seated: Sheena Hutchings, Jill Newton

Not only did the weather throw us a few “curve balls”, which included an almighty thunderstorm on Tuesday – hailstones the size of which I don’t ever recall seeing here in Somerset West, but the lawns threw us a few too. Drought conditions are tough on the lawns, and SWCC certainly have been doing their best to work miracles.

It was wonderful having all our UK friends back again, and we look forward to seeing them again next year.

Event winners left to right:
back row: Judith Hanekom (Open Handicap Singles X), Barry Huxley (Restricted Singles B), Mike Moore (WCCA & SACA president), Richard Stevens (Restricted Singles C), Chris Evans (Scottish Salver)
front row: Diana Stevens (Open Handicap Singles Y and Veterans Singles), Mark Avery (Opens Singles & Open Handicap Doubles), Caroline Burr (Open Handicap Doubles with Mark Avery)
Absent: Johnathan Edwards (Restricted Handicap Singles)