Tony Newport of Eynsham CC won the Grass Roots Tournament

[<<] [>>] by Geoff Johnson at Northampton Croquet Club
8 Sep 2012 (GC)

Tony Newport from Eynsham Croquet Club won the 2012 Grass Roots National Final.

Sixteen finalists from no less than eleven clubs from all over the country competed for the Grass Roots trophy, a GC competition for high handicap players, (handicap range 9 - 12). All the players had fought their way through club elimination rounds and regional finals to reach this National Final stage of the competition.

On a day which saw almost perfect weather for croquet, with warm sunshine throughout, seven rounds of progressive doubles produced four leaders who then went on to a four player knock-out stage.

Tony Newport beat David Widdeson from Bishop Monkton CC in the final by 7-2.

Tony had taken victory in the semi-finals, beating Graham Goodfrom Bury CCby 7-4, whilst David had beaten Ian Dampney from Broadwas CC in a very tight contest, eventually prevailing 7-6.

All-in-all a very enjoyable day, and an excellent introduction for high handicappers to serious competitions!

Special thanks must go to Northampton CC who hosted us once again in their usual friendly manner, and provided us with some excellent lawns in a beautiful setting!