East Dorset June Week Report

[<<] [>>] by Roy Edwards at East Dorset CC
6 Jun 2015 (AC)

Playing in his first ever tournament the star of the week was Jonathan Powe from Charlton Croquet Club, who only started playing the game two years ago on leaving the Army. Shortly after being informed of the C.A.'s Merit Award scheme - he achieved the Silver. Additionally he won the X handicap singles, the C class, and the doubles with his partner Ken Pickett. He collected a swingeing cut from 8 to 4.5 on his handicap to go along with his cups but I do not think this will hamper his progress.
The A class was won by David Harrison Wood with Andrew Gregory and Peter Moore as joint runners up. The B class winner was Peter Thompson with John Crowe as runner up after a play off. The Y doubles was won by David Harrison Wood and John Pollard.

Sadly, this is the first June Week I can remember without any ladies. Also only a couple of players in the 10 to 20 handicap range which used to be at least half the entry. I think the main reason is the increased number of Federation matches available for higher handicappers when they only have to commit for a day instead of a week or weekend. I envy the pre 1914 era when entries of over a hundred played in this tournament. Gale force winds on the second day caused the balls to move themselves and veer yards offline made play so difficult that Andrew Gregory, a very popular relaxed manager offered to stop play in the afternoon.

Why not come and enjoy a croquet holiday by the sea at Parkstone. Poole enjoys the best weather in the UK and with 5 good lawns in pleasant scenery with professional caterers Ian and Ed offering the best value lunches on the circuit -sporting enjoyment is guaranteed.
Roy Edwards